Following the release of their latest single New Gold and riveting performance at All Point East, virtual band Gorillaz announce their star-studded eighth album.

It’s been a while since Gorillaz has released a full length project; their last being the first installment of their Song Machine project. After a few hints at new material and a single, the virtual alt superstars have a new album on the way. The new album; however, is not the next installment in the Song Machine series, but one entitled Cracker Island.

The announcement comes a few days after the one year anniversary of the release of their Meanwhile EP, released in lieu of not being able to perform at the Notting Hill Carnival due to COVID cancellations. Back in full performance swing, the announcement arrives during their massive European show run. Full of brand new material, star-studded features, and production from Grammy-winner Greg Kurstin, the new album is a major release to watch out for in 2023.

The ten-track project features appearances from stars stretching across various genres. The title track featuring progressive R&B master Thundercat was released in July, while their latest single New Gold, with psychedelic indie rock giants Tame Impala and The Pharcyde’s rapper Bootie Brown, was released as a single with a debut on BBC1’s Future Sounds with Annie Mac. Following its debut, the album was announced via social media. Others featured on the album include enchanting superstar Stevie Nicks, soul singer Adelye Omotayo, Puerto Rico’s chart-topping rapper and singer Bad Bunny, and alternative rock legend Beck.

Fresh off of their performance at All Points East Festival (see our review here), it seems Gorillaz’s homecoming brought more than just an amazing performance. As for the virtual members, Cracker Island includes all of the 2D rockstars fans love.

Cracker Island will be released on February 24th and is available to preorder here.

See Gorillaz live: