Artist: Gorillaz
Album Title: Demon Days
Label: EMI
Bones:
Summary: No 'aping' of first album here
Reviewed By: Chad Bosworth

It's been four long years since the release of their chart busting self-titled debut, and (remix collections aside) it's time for a second dose of Gorillaz. For those unfamiliar with this group, it's not really a group at all, but rather the brainchild of Blur's Damon Albarn collaborating with hip-hop artists and electronic gurus.

For fans expecting a direct follow up to the first album, prepare for disappointment. Anyone else who has a more open mind, and understands that the musical landscape changes dramatically in half a decade may be among the more impressed by this quirky, fun follow-up.

Dan the Automator steps aside for this venture and Danger Mouse takes the controls - introducing a whole new approach to the production of Demon Days. Overall, the emphasis dial has been turned from Hip-Hop to Electronica, and the new meshed sound crushes a little of the illusion, making it harder to believe that cartoon characters are performing the vocals and cutting in over each other: One of the highlights of the debut.

That's not to say all is lost. There's a little something here for everyone, and most of the tracks have an energetic quality breathing a life of their own, with everything from Drum and Bass ("All Alone"), to bleak downbeat ("Every Planet We Reach Is Dead") and downright weird choral ensembles.

Not all tracks wander off in different directions though, "Feel Good Inc.", is an instantly likeable (and extremely catchy) first single. With the trademark multi-vocals, beats and hooks this is probably the most similar to 2001's tracks "19/2000" and "Clint Eastwood".

Fans of Basement Jaxx may want to check out "Dare", which doesn't really sound like the Gorillaz you're used to, however your tapping foot will tell you it's great nonetheless. Also try out the guilty pleasure "Fire Coming Out Of The Monkey's Head" - a rather strange, eerie tale delivered by spoken word.

It doesn't matter how much you're prepared; there's no way to avoid listening for the first album on your first excursion through Demon Days. As long as when you turn up empty handed (and you will), you give the album another spin on it's own merit.