Gorillaz

Dreamt up in the late ’90s by Blur’s Damon Albarn and Tank Girl comic artist Jamie Hewlett, Gorillaz are, without a doubt, the world’s best virtual band. It’s a dubious distinction, to be sure, but should be followed by saying that they’re probably also one of the best bands working today as well. Following the massive success of 2001’s self-titled record with its unavoidable hit single “Clint Eastwood,” and 2005’s Grammy-nominated Demon Days, Gorillaz have come back to life again with their latest, Plastic Beach. The record’s packed to the gills with guest stars, from Snoop Dogg to Lou Reed to the Lebanese National Orchestra. Some of those guests—The Clash’s Paul Simonon and Mick Jones, Bobby Womack—are out on tour as part of the 18 piece Gorillaz live show.

Updated 10/07/2010