11 Underrated Gorillaz Songs:Top 11

Hey there, fellow music enthusiasts! It’s TBone here, the heart and soul behind Level Tunes. As a DJ and a die-hard music fan, I’ve always been captivated by the unique soundscapes of Gorillaz.

Today, I’m super excited to share something special with you – a list of 11 underrated Gorillaz songs that deserve more spotlight. Why am I doing this?

Well, while everyone knows their chart-toppers, I believe it’s the hidden gems that truly showcase their genius.

These tracks, often overshadowed, are brimming with creativity and deserve a listen. So, let’s dive into the world of Gorillaz and explore these underrated masterpieces together!

Here are the underrated Gorillaz songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Gorillaz Songs

Underrated Gorillaz songs in a list format:

1. “Slow Country” from the Album “Gorillaz” (2001, Parlophone)

“Slow Country” is a hidden gem from Gorillaz’s self-titled debut album, released in 2001 under Parlophone. This track is a mesmerizing blend of electronic and reggae influences, showcasing the band’s versatility. Damon Albarn’s soothing vocals glide over a laid-back beat, creating a dreamy soundscape. I chose this song for its ability to transport listeners to a tranquil, almost otherworldly place. It’s a testament to Gorillaz’s early experimentation with different genres, setting the stage for their future musical journeys.

2. “Some Kind of Nature” from “Plastic Beach” (2010, Parlophone)

Featured on the 2010 album “Plastic Beach,” “Some Kind of Nature” is a collaboration with the legendary Lou Reed. This track stands out for its quirky, yet harmonious fusion of electronic and rock elements. Reed’s distinctive voice pairs perfectly with the synthetic backdrop, creating a unique auditory experience. I love this song for its boldness in blending contrasting styles and the way it showcases Reed’s iconic sound in a modern context. It’s a brilliant example of Gorillaz’s collaborative spirit and their knack for creating something truly original.

3. “Empire Ants” from “Plastic Beach” (2010, Parlophone)

“Empire Ants,” also from “Plastic Beach,” is a stunning collaboration with Little Dragon. This track is a journey in itself, starting with a gentle, piano-driven melody that gradually evolves into an upbeat, electronic crescendo. Yukimi Nagano’s ethereal vocals add a layer of depth and emotion. I chose this song for its dynamic structure and the seamless integration of Little Dragon’s sound, showcasing Gorillaz’s ability to create complex, evolving musical narratives.

4. “Amarillo” from “The Fall” (2011, Parlophone)

From the 2011 album “The Fall,” “Amarillo” is a hauntingly beautiful track that often goes unnoticed. It’s a reflective piece, featuring Albarn’s introspective lyrics and a melancholic melody. The song’s minimalist approach, with subtle electronic undertones, creates a sense of solitude and introspection. I find “Amarillo” captivating for its emotional depth and simplicity, highlighting a more personal and vulnerable side of Gorillaz.

5. “Bill Murray” from “D-Sides” (2007, Parlophone)

“Bill Murray,” a track from the 2007 compilation album “D-Sides,” is a tribute to the actor of the same name. This song stands out for its laid-back, jazzy vibe, a departure from Gorillaz’s usual sound. The smooth saxophone and relaxed rhythm make it a perfect chill-out track. I love “Bill Murray” for its playful homage and the way it showcases Gorillaz’s ability to experiment with different genres while still maintaining their distinctive style.

6. “Revolving Doors” from “The Fall” (2011, Parlophone)

Another gem from “The Fall,” “Revolving Doors” is an evocative track that combines Americana influences with Gorillaz’s signature electronic sound. The song’s repetitive, catchy chorus and Albarn’s reflective lyrics create a mesmerizing loop that’s hard to forget. I chose this song for its hypnotic quality and the way it captures the feeling of being stuck in a cycle, both musically and thematically.

7. “Aspen Forest” from “The Fall” (2011, Parlophone)

“Aspen Forest” is a serene instrumental track from “The Fall.” It’s a beautiful blend of piano melodies and subtle electronic elements, creating a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere. This song stands out for its simplicity and elegance, offering a moment of calm in the midst of Gorillaz’s often energetic discography. I appreciate “Aspen Forest” for its ability to convey emotion without words, showcasing the band’s talent for creating vivid soundscapes.

8. “Left Hand Suzuki Method” from “G-Sides” (2001, Parlophone)

Featured on the 2001 album “G-Sides,” “Left Hand Suzuki Method” is an intriguing fusion of traditional Japanese music and hip-hop. The use of a koto, a Japanese stringed instrument, alongside a gritty beat, makes for an unexpected yet captivating combination. I love this track for its bold experimentation and the way it highlights Gorillaz’s global musical influences, demonstrating their willingness to push boundaries and blend cultures.

9. “Highway (Under Construction)” from “D-Sides” (2007, Parlophone)

From “D-Sides,” “Highway (Under Construction)” is a laid-back track that combines elements of soul and funk with Gorillaz’s electronic roots. The song’s groovy bassline and Albarn’s relaxed vocals create a chilled-out vibe. I chose this song for its smooth, easy-listening quality and the way it showcases a different, more soulful side of Gorillaz.

10. “The Parish of Space Dust” from “The Fall” (2011, Parlophone)

“The Parish of Space Dust” is a unique track from “The Fall” that captures the essence of Texas through a mix of country music elements and electronic beats. The song features radio snippets and Albarn’s nostalgic lyrics, creating a collage of sounds and emotions. I find this track fascinating for its ability to transport listeners to a specific place and time, demonstrating Gorillaz’s skill in creating thematic and atmospheric music.

11. “Ghost Train” from “G-Sides” (2001, Parlophone)

Lastly, “Ghost Train” from “G-Sides” is an early Gorillaz track that combines funk, hip-hop, and rock. The song’s energetic rhythm and catchy chorus make it an underrated bop. I appreciate “Ghost Train” for its raw, unpolished energy and the glimpse it offers into the early stages of Gorillaz’s musical evolution, showcasing the foundational elements that would later define their sound.

Fun Facts: Underrated Gorillaz Songs

“Slow Country” from the Album “Gorillaz” (2001, Parlophone)

• Music Video Mystery: Despite being a lesser-known track, “Slow Country” has its own music video, which is a rarity for non-single tracks. The video features a dystopian cityscape, fitting the song’s moody vibe.
• Sample Delight: This track samples “Ghost Town” by The Specials, a nod to the band’s influence on Gorillaz’s sound, particularly their blend of alternative rock and reggae.

“Some Kind of Nature” from “Plastic Beach” (2010, Parlophone)

• Lou Reed’s Touch: This song features the late Lou Reed, a rock legend known for his work with The Velvet Underground. His involvement adds a classic rock flavor to Gorillaz’s modern sound.
• Environmental Undertones: Like many tracks on “Plastic Beach,” this song subtly addresses environmental issues, fitting the album’s overarching theme of ecological awareness.

“Empire Ants” from “Plastic Beach” (2010, Parlophone)

• A Shift in Style: The song is notable for its dramatic shift midway. It starts as a slow, melodic tune and transforms into an upbeat, electronic piece, showcasing Gorillaz’s dynamic range.
• Little Dragon’s Influence: Yukimi Nagano of Little Dragon contributes her distinctive vocals, adding a dreamy quality to the track. This collaboration is a fan favorite for its seamless blend of styles.

“Amarillo” from “The Fall” (2011, Parlophone)

• On-the-Road Inspiration: “The Fall” was recorded during Gorillaz’s North American tour, with “Amarillo” being inspired by the city in Texas. The song captures the feeling of life on the road.
• iPad Production: Interestingly, this album was famously recorded on an iPad, demonstrating Gorillaz’s innovative approach to music production.

“Bill Murray” from “D-Sides” (2007, Parlophone)

• Tribute to an Icon: The song is a tribute to actor Bill Murray, known for his roles in films like “Lost in Translation.” It’s a playful homage to his laid-back, quirky persona.
• Jazzy Experimentation: “Bill Murray” stands out for its jazz elements, a genre Gorillaz rarely explores, making it a unique piece in their discography.

“Revolving Doors” from “The Fall” (2011, Parlophone)

• American Influence: The song reflects Damon Albarn’s experiences in America, particularly in Boston, where the idea for the song reportedly came to him after seeing revolving doors in a bar.
• Minimalist Approach: Unlike many Gorillaz tracks, “Revolving Doors” features a more minimalist sound, focusing on Albarn’s vocals and a simple melody.

“Aspen Forest” from “The Fall” (2011, Parlophone)

• Instrumental Beauty: One of the few instrumental tracks by Gorillaz, “Aspen Forest” showcases the band’s ability to create vivid imagery through music alone.
• Cultural Blend: The track features a melodica, a signature instrument in many Gorillaz songs, blending Western and Eastern musical influences.

“Left Hand Suzuki Method” from “G-Sides” (2001, Parlophone)

• East Meets West: The song’s title references a violin teaching method created by Shinichi Suzuki, highlighting the fusion of Japanese and Western music styles in the track.
• Unique Instrumentation: The use of the koto, a traditional Japanese string instrument, in a hip-hop context, is a prime example of Gorillaz’s genre-blending creativity.

“Highway (Under Construction)” from “D-Sides” (2007, Parlophone)

• Soulful Exploration: This track delves into soul and funk, genres that Gorillaz explored less frequently, showcasing their versatility and willingness to experiment.
• D-Sides Rarity: As part of “D-Sides,” a collection of B-sides and rarities, this song is often overlooked but is a favorite among die-hard fans for its smooth, laid-back vibe.

“The Parish of Space Dust” from “The Fall” (2011, Parlophone)

• Texas Homage: The song pays homage to Texas, with radio snippets from the state, blending local sounds with Gorillaz’s style to create a unique auditory experience.
• Tour Inspiration: Like other tracks on “The Fall,” this song was inspired by Gorillaz’s North American tour, capturing the diverse cultural and musical landscapes of the places they visited.

“Ghost Train” from “G-Sides” (2001, Parlophone)

• Early Days: “Ghost Train” is one of the earliest Gorillaz tracks, recorded even before their debut album. It showcases the raw, experimental energy of the band’s early days.
• Genre Fusion: The track is a fusion of funk, hip-hop, and rock, elements that would become staples in Gorillaz’s later work, making it a significant piece in their musical evolution.

And there you have it, fellow music lovers! A journey through the lesser-known but equally brilliant tracks of Gorillaz. Each song tells its own story, weaving a tapestry of sound that’s both diverse and captivating. Dive into these underrated gems and experience the depth of Gorillaz’s musical genius. Happy listening!

Thanks for reading.

TBone