Listening to Gorillaz is like stepping into an eclectic, animated world of music where nothing is off the table. This British band, formed in 1998 by Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett, has become a household name far beyond just the fans of virtual bands. This post, however, shines light on their forgotten gem, the 'iTunes Session' EP, a testament to their unique blend of styles. Released on October 25, 2010, this EP brought a novel twist to the table, proving once again why Gorillaz’s creative fingerprint is unmatched in the music industry. Recording took place across various sessions adding new layers to their sound, which left quite a remarkable imprint on fans who had the pleasure of hearing it in its prime. But why is this EP significant in the sea of music that Gorillaz has released? Let’s uncover why this creation deserves a round of applause.
First up, let’s talk about the tracklist featuring live renditions of some iconic tunes, blended with that nostalgic Gorillaz essence. The EP opened up affordably on iTunes with seven tracks: 'Stylo', 'On Melancholy Hill', 'Rhinestone Eyes', 'To Binge', 'Crystalised' (a mind-blowing cover, by the way), 'Momentum' and an exclusive track, 'Do Ya Thing', which later became an Amazon exclusive. These tracks are dusted with a fresh live feel, thanks to the EP’s recording setup with Albarn’s vocals leading the charge with a unique touch. This was a refreshing take because it showcased Gorillaz's ability to take their pre-existing work and smooth it out live, something that wasn't as common practice in the digital age of music where electronic production can overshadow raw talent.
Second on our list of commendations is the vibe these tracks bring. If you haven’t experienced 'Stylo' live, this EP is the next best thing. It takes their iconic energy and turns it into their characteristic electronic funk. It brought the virtual band’s energy into a live, yet still stylistically unusual, setting. Gorillaz has always been about breaking norms, and 'iTunes Session' is no different. Liberal music critics often praise similar projects by their favorites, but Gorillaz does this heavy-lifting without the overblown self-indulgence found elsewhere.
Third is the global accessibility. During a time when concerts were more regionally restricted, this kind of release meant fans worldwide could experience the magic of Gorillaz without being stuffed in an overpriced venue. iTunes was used strategically to bring performance to your living room without the geographic or logistical barriers, ensuring the Gorillaz love spread far and wide without limitations. This is how bands stay relevant in a digital world obsessed with instant access.
Fourth, the EP reveals Gorillaz’s sheer talent. The seamless blend of realistic vocals and backing instrumentals serves as a reminder that electronic music doesn’t mean talentless music. Those who label synthetic sounds as lacking substance clearly haven’t listened to this EP. Gorillaz proficiently blends many soundscapes and styles, proving that talent requires substance and creativity over genre, a point anyone can appreciate regardless of where they stand on the musical spectrum.
Fifth, 'iTunes Session' EP had an experimental yet polished appeal. Albarn and his team reimagined each track with both technical prowess and empathetic reverence for the original material. A lot of bands get lost in producing live music with rushed attempts and subpar records. Gorillaz? They roll out a carefully crafted EP that holds its ground against any studio album.
Sixth, it’s crucial to note how Gorillaz utilized this opportunity to tie in with 'Plastic Beach', the release closely preceding 'iTunes Session'. Not only did Albarn and company bring previous work into focus, but they used this as a launchpad to keep listeners excited for future work, like 'The Fall' in 2010. This interconnectedness of albums and sessions kept fans spinning in the orbit of Gorillaz. A strategic yet massively effective method of staying fresh on everyone’s playlist.
Seventh, let’s recognize how this EP brought something as gutsy as a cover of 'Crystalised' by The xx. Covering a song from another artist is always risky, but Gorillaz made it their own, blending their signature sound with the moody vibe of the original. This dynamic shift indicates how records can be celebrated without losing their original essence. It’s an homage that speaks volume to their respect for the craft.
Eighth, the prominence of 'Do Ya Thing' as a closing track reflects the ingenuity of Gorillaz. iTunes had an exclusive track, showing how bands can create buzz with a single song placement that still feels complete within itself, and complements the album rather than derailing its charm. It simply worked in driving home the playful, boundary-pushing sonic ethos Gorillaz is known for.
Ninth point is the tangible connection between the classic Gorillaz animation style and their tracks on the EP. Fans delight in this crossover of visuals and audibles, allowing music-lovers to engage on multiple levels. The synergy between Albarn's sonic adventures and Hewlett's visual artistry makes Gorillaz a truly captivating act to follow. This alignment is what the digital age should be celebrating with technology.
Tenth and final note: iTunes understood what it was to curate talent, giving the audience a refined glimpse into something more than just their favorite songs. iTunes being a pioneer of digital music downloads for years proved the name attached to exclusive, quality releases amplified the interest. Gorillaz ensured the promise was delivered through an EP that brought unfamiliar elements while keeping enough beloved quirk to draw in audiences again and again. And that, my friends, is how an 'iTunes Session' becomes part of a band’s enduring legacy worth diving into.