Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez
by Gorillaz
User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 133 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 122 out of 133
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 133
  3. Negative: 4 out of 133
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  1. srw1108
    Oct 23, 2020
    6
    I love Gorillaz. Let me make that clear. I’ve been a fan for a good time, but this is not their strongest piece of work. I understand that this is just a fun project and to draw attention to newer/unknown artists and collabrate with some of their musical friends. It’s hard to get a start in the music industry. So that’s why I think the majority of the album is just collaborations. But youI love Gorillaz. Let me make that clear. I’ve been a fan for a good time, but this is not their strongest piece of work. I understand that this is just a fun project and to draw attention to newer/unknown artists and collabrate with some of their musical friends. It’s hard to get a start in the music industry. So that’s why I think the majority of the album is just collaborations. But you can tell that Jamie and Damon have lost interest in the project and they’re doing anything to keep it alive. The album had some high quality songs that will be memorable, however there are some tracks that aren’t that strong. I truly wish that there were some tracks with just Damon, I’m getting burnt out with all the collaborations though they’re to draw attention to newer artists. However, I liked some of the collaborations on this album and I most definitely will check out some of them. In conclusion, Gorillaz’ Song Machine Season 1 was a nice album, but not their best piece of work.… Expand
  2. JLuis_001
    Nov 1, 2020
    6
    Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez, the seventh studio album by Gorillaz is yet another example of how much they can continue to diversify their style and sound.
    There's no surprise in it, but that does not neglect the quality.
    Perhaps the real problem I have is that the same diversification makes the album feel a bit unbalanced and at a certain point even somewhat redundant.    Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez, the seventh studio album by Gorillaz is yet another example of how much they can continue to diversify their style and sound.
    There's no surprise in it, but that does not neglect the quality.

    Perhaps the real problem I have is that the same diversification makes the album feel a bit unbalanced and at a certain point even somewhat redundant.

    This is because, as always, there are songs that work much better than others.

    And this is quite remarkable with the deluxe edition, since they are songs that for the most part I considered filler and that lengthen an album that doesn't need it.

    A sin that Albarn has committed with this band several times.

    For the most part it's enjoyable. It's easy to listen to and it works well.
    It's not the best the band has ever done, but it's still a nice addition to their discography.

    Notable tracks

    > Strange Timez (featuring Robert Smith)
    > The Valley of the Pagans (featuring Beck)
    > Chalk Tablet Towers (featuring St. Vincent)
    > The Pink Phantom (featuring Elton John and 6lack)    … Expand
  3. GorillazUnoffic
    Aug 21, 2022
    5
    Not there best. Love Gorillaz but I really think that most of these songs are weak.

Awards & Rankings

62
#62 Most Discussed Album of 2020

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
81

Universal acclaim - based on 15 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 15
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 15
  3. Negative: 0 out of 15
  1. Variety
    Oct 30, 2020
    85
    In an era that’s become too reliant on guest features and scene-stealing cameos, here the delicately-honed collaborative approach seems to bypass any kowtowing to ego. There’s an at-ease alchemy at work. That all stems from Albarn, who doesn’t crop up when he isn’t needed.
    Read full review
  2. Sputnikmusic
    Oct 29, 2020
    76
    Strange Timez doesn’t break a whole lot of new ground, but it’s Damon Albarn’s strongest release since Plastic Beach and an infectious celebration of the unique legacy of Gorillaz.
    Read full review
  3. Mojo
    Oct 28, 2020
    80
    The most cohesive Gorillaz album since Demon Days 15 years ago. [Dec 2020, p.81]
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