Gorillaz Collaborate with IDLES on New Single "The God of Lying"

Gorillaz have released a new single titled “The God of Lying,” featuring IDLES frontman Joe Talbot. This track is the third preview from their upcoming album, *The Mountain*, which is set to be released on March 20, 2026. The song was co-written by Damon Albarn and Joe Talbot and recorded in London, Devon, and Mumbai, incorporating contributions from bansuri player Ajay Prasanna and percussionist Viraj Acharya.

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“The God of Lying” is characterized by a psychedelic reggae rhythm and features a blend of spoken word narration by Talbot and melodic vocals from Albarn. The lyrics delve into societal and political tensions, with Talbot posing reflective questions such as, “Are you deafened by the headlines?” and “Are you bubbling at the surface of what’s cooking underneath?” The chorus, delivered by Albarn, expresses a sense of hope amidst uncertainty, stating, “Running to the exit with a huge grin on my face / Screaming hope is behind and I wanna get high.”

Gorillaz Recruit IDLES for "The God of Lying": Stream

*The Mountain* is Gorillaz's ninth studio album and showcases a diverse array of collaborators, including notable artists such as Black Thought, Johnny Marr, and Anoushka Shankar. The album explores themes of grief and political division, influenced by Albarn's personal experiences, including the loss of his father and travels in India. Albarn has described these experiences as pivotal in shaping the album's narrative and emotional depth.

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Gorillaz’s fictional frontman, 2D, remarked, “Can I tell you a secret? Doubt is very tiring but questioning things is really good for you,” highlighting the introspective nature of the song. The band has also announced a UK and Ireland tour to coincide with the album's release, beginning on March 21, 2026, following the album launch.

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While the collaboration has been generally well-received, some critics have expressed concerns about the thematic heaviness of the lyrics, suggesting that the exploration of societal issues may overshadow the musicality of the track. However, others argue that the blend of introspective lyrics with engaging rhythms creates a compelling listening experience.

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In addition to the album release, Gorillaz will embark on a tour across the UK and Ireland, with performances in cities such as Birmingham, Glasgow, and Dublin. The tour will culminate in a significant headline show at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on June 20, 2026.

Gorillaz share ‘The God of Lying’ featuring Idles

• “Can I tell you a secret? Doubt is very tiring but questioning things is really good for you.” — Damon Albarn, Gorillaz Frontman

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• “Are you deafened by the headlines?/ Or does your head not hear at all?,” — Joe Talbot, IDLES Frontman

Gorillaz Recruit IDLES for "The God of Lying": Stream

This collaboration between Gorillaz and IDLES not only showcases their musical synergy but also reflects a broader commentary on contemporary societal issues, making “The God of Lying” a significant addition to the upcoming album.

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