It’s their first album in 5 years, and the wait has been more than worth it. Headed by Blur frontman Damon Albarn, this virtual electronic-pop-hop project has a week to go before the release of its much anticipated Plastic Beach.

Their new album is expansive and unabashedly fun. Beeps, nautical accompaniment and Arabic orchestral flourishes all contribute to a crystal sonic landscape that is just real beauty.

As with their past releases, the Gorillaz feature an impressive list of collaborators: Snoop Dogg, Bobby Womack, Lou Reed, Mos Def, Super Furry Animals’ Gruff Rhys, Little Dragon, The Lebanese National Orchestra for Oriental Arabic Music, and many more.

Hear its first single, “Stylo”, insanely reinterpreted:

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Stylo (Alex Metric Remix) – Gorillaz

Listen to the album in its entirety on NPR. Plastic Beach will be in stores March 8th. Prepare.

What do you think? Does it meet/transcend the genius that was “19-2000″? As always, make your comments known.

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