If you thought Gorillaz were satisfied with this year’s Plastic Beach, their epic, critically–acclaimed third album, you’d be wrong. Staying true to form, Damon Albarn (Blur frontman and the mastermind behind Gorillaz) continues to defy expectations by announcing this surprise new single, “Doncamatic.” The track is named after a '60s–era Japanese Wurlitzer synthesizer — indeed, the instrument features prominently throughout the track, providing a buoyant, whimsical backdrop to the soundscape. There’s plenty more to love on this track — Albarn’s knack for production is evident (as always), as he deftly interweaves a seemingly eclectic array of electronics and voices to create a vibrant, cohesive sound. Also, he takes a step back from the microphone on “Doncamatic,” handing it instead to British R&B up–and–comer Daley. Daley’s voice is soulful, even haunting at points; in short, essential to the song’s character. Gorillaz is easily one of the most fascinating musical acts in recent memory, and this single serves as a strong rebuke to anyone that thought Plastic Beach signified that Albarn had run out of gas. Quite the contrary: not only is “Doncamatic” fantastic to listen to, but Albarn recorded this song on his iPad. Who the fuck else could do that?
4/5 stars
