Bustedbass and I were able to see Gorillaz play Madison Square Garden last Friday. From the moment the orchestra played the first notes of the orchestral intro to Plastic Beach, it was clear that this was going to be a once in a lifetime performance.


Damon Albarn effortlessly shared the stage with Mos Def, Bobby Womack, Rosie Wilson, Little Dragon, De La Soul, Mick Jones, Bashy, Kano, Miho Hatori, Bootie Brown, Paul Simonon and Lou Reed, who all (aside from Reed) appeared humbled to be part of the performance.


Albarn crafted a perfect two hour set that evening. The show started with the first few songs from Plastic Beach and seamlessly progressed through an eclectic collection of songs from each album. All of the guests were given their proper dues when they appeared, and the crowd really responded to classics like El Manana, Clint Eastwood, Dare, and Feel Good Inc.


My favorite moments were split between the live version of El Manana, hearing Little Dragon sing on Empire Ants, and Bootie Brown‘s surprise appearance on Dirty Harry.


The show concluded with Bobby Womack on Cloud Of Unkowing, Bashy and Kano flowing over Del‘s verse on Clint Eastwood, and an ethereal finale of Don’t Get Lost In Heaven/Demon Days.


It was the best concert I have ever seen. If you’re only able to spend money on one concert this year, than Escape To Plastic Beach should be it. They’ve just started carving through the first dates of their world tour, and you owe it to yourself to see this performance.

Gorillaz – Stylo (feat. Mos Def and Bobby Womack) (Chiddy Bang Remix)