Gorillaz Honors Departed Collaborators on 'The Mountain'

Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett celebrate late artists on their latest album

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Gorillaz, the virtual band created by Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett, has released a new album called "The Mountain (Kong)" that honors several of their past collaborators who have since passed away, including Mark E. Smith, Dave 'Trugoy' Jolicoeur, Bobby Womack, and Tony Allen. The album features a diverse range of musical styles and guest artists, showcasing Albarn's ability to bridge cultural gaps through his collaborations.

Why it matters

Gorillaz has always been known for its innovative approach to music and its ability to bring together artists from different genres and backgrounds. By honoring their departed collaborators on this album, Albarn and Hewlett are not only paying tribute to these influential artists, but also highlighting the power of music to transcend the finality of death.

The details

The album was recorded all over the world, making it Gorillaz's most cosmopolitan effort yet. Albarn and Hewlett were joined by producers James Ford, Samuel Egglenton, percussionist Remi Kabaka Jr., and Argentine EDM DJ Bizarrap. The album features unexpected artistic pairings, such as the Roots' Black Thought, the Smiths' Johnny Marr, and Anoushka Shankar on "The Empty Dream Machine", and Jolicoeur and Womack on "The Moon Cave".

  • Gorillaz released "The Mountain (Kong)" on February 19, 2026.

The players

Damon Albarn

The co-creator of Gorillaz and the primary songwriter for the virtual band.

Jamie Hewlett

The co-creator of Gorillaz and the visual artist behind the band's distinctive artwork and animation.

Mark E. Smith

The late frontman of the English post-punk band The Fall, who collaborated with Gorillaz.

Dave 'Trugoy' Jolicoeur

The late member of the hip-hop group De La Soul, who also collaborated with Gorillaz.

Bobby Womack

The late soul music legend who collaborated with Gorillaz.

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What they’re saying

“Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett, the humans behind virtual group Gorillaz, don't view death as the end, but as an excuse for a hell of a wake.”

— Michael Tedder, Author (spin.com)

The takeaway

Gorillaz's latest album, "The Mountain (Kong)", serves as a poignant tribute to the band's departed collaborators, showcasing Albarn's ability to bridge cultural gaps and celebrate the transcendent power of music even in the face of mortality.