Teaming up with Schoolboy Q, Gorillaz’ latest instalment in their song machine series might be their best yet. Earlier this year, Damon Albarn confirmed the collaboration in a radio interview with Annie Mac, revealing the likes of Sampa The Great have also been with him in the studio. 

The single sounds like a reversion back to the band’s ‘Demon Days’ era, with the beat’s direct dance rhythms offering a contagious groove. West Coast rapper, Schoolboy Q, barks over the synth funk with his signature raspy vocals, counteracting the more intimate delivery of virtual band member 2-D. Named after the legendary arcade game, which celebrated its 40 year anniversary in May, Pac-Man is a fine follow up to the group’s previous collaboration ‘Friday 13th’ with Octavian.

The song machine series has also seen Gorillaz work with Skepta, Slowthai, Slaves, Fatoumata Diawara and Peter Hook among others. Watch Schoolboy Q chill with all the band’s beloved characters above.

Words by Liam Cattermole