AceShowbiz - Gorillaz have debuted a stunning eight-minute short film titled The Mountain, The Moon Cave & The Sad God, directed by the band’s co-creator Jamie Hewlett. The release accompanies their ninth studio album, The Mountain, which launched on February 27 through their own label Kong.

The album was largely recorded in India during a period when both Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett were traveling in search of solace after losing their fathers. Reflecting this personal journey, the album’s animated characters embark on a mystical global quest to explore unique musical traditions, symbolizing a deeper connection to spiritual and creative renewal.

The short film, made in collaboration with Max Taylor and Tim McCourt from the BAFTA-nominated London animation studio THE LINE, opens with a vibe reminiscent of Disney’s The Jungle Book. It is scored by the album’s title track and depicts the band’s virtual personas — Murdoc, Russel, 2D, and Noodle — immersing themselves in Indian musical culture, deliberately stepping away from international pop fame to embrace profound rhythmic influences.

The film’s narrative and aesthetic complement the album’s themes of death, healing, and transformation, weaving in voices from beyond the grave. These include iconic musicians such as Afrobeat percussion pioneer Tony Allen, Mark E. Smith of The Fall, rapper Proof from D12, actor Dennis Hopper, soul legend Bobby Womack, and Dave Jolicoeur from De La Soul.

Additional appearances feature notable artists like IDLES, Sparks, Yasiin Bey (formerly Mos Def), Gruff Rhys, Paul Simonon of The Clash, sitar virtuoso Anoushka Shankar, and guitarist Johnny Marr. This diverse lineup underscores the album’s global and eclectic spirit.

In a four-star review, NME praised The Mountain as a tribute to the enduring impact of love and generosity. The review highlights its exploration of shared human experience, quoting Albarn's poignant lyric from the track "Orange County": “I'm not your enemy, your atoms gone, you stand alone, and everything you gave to someone you love - that's the hardest thing.”

Following the album’s release, Gorillaz performed the first show of their The Mountain tour in Los Angeles. In March, they are scheduled to embark on a UK and Ireland tour, with a highly anticipated headline concert at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on June 20. Albarn has recently commented on this significant event with characteristic wit.

Before the major London show, the band plans to play warm-up gigs in Bradford. Their summer itinerary also includes appearances at various European festivals, promising an extensive live presence throughout the season.