Gorillaz Albums Ranked: Fan Favorites (2025)
Gorillaz. The name itself conjures vivid images of groundbreaking animation and a kaleidoscope of genre-defying sounds.
For over two decades, Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett's audacious virtual band has consistently pushed creative boundaries. But among their innovative releases, which studio albums truly resonate most profoundly with their dedicated fanbase?
We're embarking on a journey through the Gorillaz albums ranked, guided primarily by the voices and sentiments of the fans themselves. This exploration of their discography aims to highlight what many consider the best Gorillaz albums.
Later, we'll also glance at how these iconic records perform based on current engagement data. Let's step into the ever-evolving, wonderfully weird world of 2D, Murdoc, Noodle, and Russel.
Ranking Gorillaz's albums: The fan favorites
Here's how the albums stack up based on fan sentiment, community discussions, and overall buzz.
We're starting with the most beloved.
1. Demon Days (2005)
Demon Days is the iconic second studio album from Gorillaz.
It presented a darker tone compared to their debut, exploring apocalyptic themes and what Damon Albarn described as a world in a "state of night." Production was notably handled by Danger Mouse alongside Gorillaz.
The album was a massive commercial and critical success. It featured an array of guest artists like De La Soul, MF DOOM, and Ike Turner.
Demon Days is widely regarded as one of Gorillaz's finest works and a landmark album of the 2000s, praised for its genre-bending style and prescient themes.
Key tracks:
- Feel Good Inc.
- DARE (feat. Shaun Ryder & Roses Gabor)
Securing the top spot in our fan-driven ranking, Demon Days is often hailed as a masterpiece by the Gorillaz faithful.
Its cohesive concept, combined with massively popular singles, cemented its legendary status almost immediately. Many fans point to its darker, more mature themes as a significant evolution for the band.
2. Plastic Beach (2010)
Plastic Beach, the third studio album, presented a concept centered around environmental themes.
The titular Plastic Beach is depicted as a secret floating island made of debris. Damon Albarn self-produced this record, which boasts an extensive list of collaborators, including Snoop Dogg, Lou Reed, and Mos Def.
Musically, it leans into a synth-pop sound with hip-hop and funk influences. The album received positive reviews and is considered a strong entry in their discography.
Key tracks:
- Rhinestone Eyes
- On Melancholy Hill
Coming in at a strong number two, Plastic Beach is adored by fans for its ambitious scope and ecological narrative.
The sheer star-power of its guest list, paired with its lush, atmospheric soundscapes, makes it a frequent mention in "best of" discussions among the fanbase.
3. Gorillaz (2001)
The self-titled debut album, Gorillaz, burst onto the scene in 2001.
It introduced the world to the virtual band concept conceived by Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett. Produced by Dan the Automator, the album blended alternative rock, hip hop, dub, and trip-hop.
It featured notable collaborations with artists like Del the Funky Homosapien. The album was a significant commercial success, establishing Gorillaz as a unique and influential musical project.
Key tracks:
- Clint Eastwood
- 19-2000
The album that started it all, Gorillaz, holds a firm third place in the hearts of many fans.
Its raw, eclectic energy and the groundbreaking introduction of the virtual band members left an indelible mark. For many, it's the nostalgic anchor of their Gorillaz journey.
4. Humanz (2017)
Humanz marked Gorillaz's return after a seven-year hiatus.
Released in 2017, the album was described by Damon Albarn as the soundtrack to "a party for the end of the world," with political themes inspired by the 2016 US presidential election.
It features an extensive roster of guest artists, including Grace Jones, Vince Staples, and De La Soul. The album embraces a modern electronic, hip-hop, and R&B sensibility.
Key tracks:
- She's My Collar (feat. Kali Uchis)
- Andromeda (feat. DRAM)
Ranked fourth by fan sentiment, Humanz is often seen as a vibrant, politically charged statement.
While some fans found the sheer number of collaborators overwhelming, many appreciated its urgent energy and diverse sonic palette reflecting tumultuous times.
5. Cracker Island (2023)
Cracker Island is Gorillaz's eighth studio album, released in 2023.
This album evolved from a planned second season of their Song Machine project. It features collaborations with artists like Stevie Nicks, Thundercat, Tame Impala, and Bad Bunny.
Damon Albarn described it as a loose concept album inspired by modern conspiracy theories and online echo chambers, with a sound leaning towards pop and synth-pop. It debuted at number one in the UK.
Key tracks:
- New Gold (feat. Tame Impala and Bootie Brown)
- Tormenta (feat. Bad Bunny)
The relatively recent Cracker Island lands at number five, showcasing its quick connection with listeners.
Fans have praised its tight, focused sound and high-profile collaborations, viewing it as a strong, contemporary addition to the Gorillaz canon.
6. The Now Now (2018)
The Now Now, Gorillaz's sixth studio album, was released in 2018.
Written and recorded quickly during the Humanz Tour, it features a more simplified, Albarn-focused sound. This contrasts with the collaborator-heavy nature of its predecessor.
Influenced by 1980s new wave and synth-pop, the album includes only three guest artists: George Benson, Snoop Dogg, and Jamie Principle. It was praised for its cohesion and lyrical simplicity.
Key tracks:
- Tranz
- Humility (feat. George Benson)
At number six, The Now Now is often appreciated by fans for its more introspective and focused feel.
Many listeners found its streamlined approach and summery vibes a refreshing change of pace, highlighting Damon Albarn's songwriting more directly.
7. Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez (2020)
Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez was released in 2020.
This seventh studio album was the culmination of Gorillaz's innovative Song Machine web series. Each track was released episodically with a music video and featured various guest artists.
Collaborators include Robert Smith, Elton John, Beck, and ScHoolboy Q. The album showcases an eclectic mix of genres, reflecting its diverse guest list and unique recording process during strange times indeed.
Key tracks:
- Pac-Man (feat. ScHoolboy Q)
- The Valley of The Pagans (feat. Beck)
Landing at eighth place, Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez is valued by fans for its experimental release format and impressive array of collaborations.
The project's adaptability and consistent stream of new music during 2020 resonated with many, even if individual tracks varied in appeal for some.
Picked your top Gorillaz classic? Check out Gorillaz's discography on their Roll The Record Artist hub.
Gorillaz albums: A look at popularity data
While fan sentiment paints a rich picture, current popularity data can offer another interesting angle.
This looks at an artist's discography through a different lens.
Below is a ranking of Gorillaz's albums based on their popularity scores from available data. This reflects which releases are currently seeing significant engagement.
| Popularity Rank | Album Title | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Demon Days | 2005 |
| 2 | Gorillaz | 2001 |
| 3 | Humanz | 2017 |
| 4 | Cracker Island | 2023 |
| 5 | The Now Now | 2018 |
| 6 | Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez | 2020 |
| 7 | D-Sides [Special Edition] | 2007 |
| 8 | Plastic Beach | 2010 |
| 9 | Laika Come Home | 2002 |
Quick FAQs about Gorillaz's albums
Q: What inspired the themes of Gorillaz's album Demon Days?
A: Damon Albarn's journey through rural China and the concept of "the world in a state of night" heavily influenced its apocalyptic themes. The album also reflects on post-9/11 political anxieties.
Q: Who produced Demon Days?
A: Demon Days was produced by Gorillaz and Danger Mouse. This collaboration marked a notable shift from their debut album, which was produced by Dan the Automator.
So, there you have it – a dive into Gorillaz's albums ranked.
We've navigated the passionate insights of the fan community and glanced at current popularity trends.
Ultimately, the "best" Gorillaz album is a deeply personal choice. The music's connection to our own lives and memories often defines its true value.
Each record represents a distinct chapter in their ever-evolving story. What does your personal ranking of Gorillaz's albums look like? Which one claims the top spot for you, and what makes it so special?