Successful virtual band the Gorillaz refuse to leave their fans starving for music.  Recently the cartoon foursome released D-Sides, a two disc collection of unreleased songs, demos, and even remixes from the band's second full length release Demon Days.  By the way, yes I did say cartoon foursome.  In order to understand the Gorillaz you need a lot of imagination.

If you would like to get technical about the Gorillaz -- rather than think outside the box -- then I can explain it easily.  Gorillaz is a band, rather project, consisting of music from Blur’s front man Damon Albarn (the only permanent member), and various special guests. Most of whom are unlisted, but have included many famous artists including Del The Funky Homosapien, and illustrations by Jamie Hewlett, co-creator of the comic book Tank Girl.  Mix the music, primarily rock and elements of rap, with the illustrations turned animations, and you have yourself the virtual band Gorillaz.

Now, if you have an imagination then we can look at the virtual side of the Gorillaz. 

The band consists of four members who record and live in Kong Studios.  The members are 2D on vocals and keyboards; Murdoc Niccals on bass; Russel Hobbs on percussion; and Noodle on guitar and vocals. 

Each member has their own style making this virtual band quite interesting to listen to and watch.  2D seems a little depressed at times, Murdoc is a bad ass womanizer, Russel is a big drummer who looks confused a lot, and Noodle is a high spirited young lady. 

Gorillaz create music that spans all over the genre board.  Some tracks are upbeat rock songs, while others are funky tracks with rap lyrics interrupting the style.  They are in my opinion one of the most unique bands on the music scene today.  Problem is they hardly ever play a live show, and when they do it is overseas or in major cities.  If you really want to know the band and see them your best bet is the internet.  They have their own website that is a gateway to their personal virtual lives.  Once you enter their site you enter their Kong Studios where you can take a virtual tour and explore.

D-Sides is the second b-side/remix collection released from the Gorillaz with the first being called G-Sides.  This CD is full of tracks I actually prefer over the original versions from Demon Days.  It is interesting as well to hear other artists take songs and remix them to their likening. 

Starting off the double disc collection on disc one is “68 State,” an instrumental B-side track.  It’s a little indie and a little electronic at the same time.  I kind of wish there were vocals to accompany the track, as I think it may have been a little more enthralling.   

“People” was very entertaining especially with the deep bass line.  2D’s singing on this unreleased track sounds a little meek, but fits really well. I am shocked that this track never made its way to a regular release album.  It is a good catchy song, and features Dangermouse on drums.