Gorillaz have shared another glimpse into their upcoming album The Mountain, set for release later this year, unveiling a poignant double single titled The Hardest Thing / Orange County. The release balances deep emotion with renewed optimism, offering listeners a reflective moment that fits seamlessly into the evolving tone of the project. Together, the two tracks serve as both a tribute and a forward-looking statement from the band.
The Hardest Thing stands as a heartfelt homage to the late Tony Allen, whose influence on modern music remains profound. Damon Albarn uses the track to explore themes of loss, remembrance, and resilience, centering the song around a simple but powerful refrain about the pain of saying goodbye. The emotional weight is amplified by the presence of Allen’s own voice at the opening, giving the song a deeply personal and intimate feel.
The second track, Orange County, flows naturally from its predecessor and shifts the mood toward something warmer and more uplifting. Poet Kara Jackson lends graceful and thoughtful vocals, while Anoushka Shankar’s sitar adds a rich, textured layer to the arrangement. The track is rounded out by production from Bizarrap, whose modern and experimental touch helps the song feel expansive and contemporary without losing its emotional core.
This release continues a steady rollout of music from The Mountain, following earlier singles that showcased Gorillaz’ collaborative spirit. The album features an eclectic mix of artists across genres and generations, reinforcing the band’s reputation for creative risk-taking and musical fusion. Each new track adds another layer to what is shaping up to be one of their most ambitious records yet.
With The Hardest Thing / Orange County, Gorillaz manage to honor the past while embracing new voices and sounds. The double single captures grief without despair and hope without simplicity, offering a moving reminder of Tony Allen’s legacy and the enduring power of collaboration that has long defined the band’s work.
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