Gorillaz released their first new track of 2022 with their new single, “Cracker Island,” featuring vocalist and bassist Thundercat. The single marks the first release of Damon Albarn’s virtual band since 2021’s Meanwhile EP, which featured Jelani Blackman, AJ Tracey, Barrington Levy and Alicaì Harley.

“Cracker Island,” a track made for the club, features Thundercat filling in the space between drippy synth leads. Thundercat additionally provides falsetto backing vocals throughout and showcases his distinct, prog-jazz-inspired bass-playing towards the end of the song. The band debuted the new single all the way back in April when they began their world tour in Uruguay. Gorillaz co-produced the track with eight-time Grammy winner Greg Kurstin and Remi Kabaka Jr.

The animated musical collective seems to be up to something more extensive in the studio, as bassist Murdoc attempts to recruit people into something called “The Last Cult.” While details are still being uncovered, a press release explains that “The world’s biggest virtual band have relocated to Silverlake, California where it turns out that the answer to life’s question — the one truth to fix the world — is to invite fans to join ‘The Last Cult,’ with Murdoc as its self-appointed Great Leader.”

The virtual band is currently in the middle of a world tour that has seen the live debut of “Silent Running,”  a currently unreleased track. Meanwhile, Thundercat has a headlining tour scheduled for this summer and will provide support for Khruangbin and Red Hot Chili Peppers. Listen to Gorillaz’s new track below, or on a streaming platform of choice. 

Listen to “Cracker Island” below.