Gorillaz

Gorillaz Live at Co-op Live, Manchester

About the Event

Prepare for a truly unique and electrifying evening as the virtual pioneers, Gorillaz, bring their genre-bending sound and groundbreaking visual spectacle to Manchester’s state-of-the-art Co-op Live on Friday, 20 March 2026. This isn’t just a concert; it’s an immersive journey into the vibrant, unpredictable world of Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett’s animated collective. Witness the fusion of cutting-edge technology, live instrumentation, and a cast of unforgettable animated characters as they take centre stage. Co-op Live, renowned for its world-class acoustics and innovative design, will provide the perfect canvas for Gorillaz’s unparalleled live experience, promising a night that will linger long after the final note fades.

About Gorillaz

Born from the minds of Blur frontman Damon Albarn and acclaimed comic book artist Jamie Hewlett in 1998, Gorillaz exploded onto the music scene as a revolutionary concept. More than just a band, they are a virtual phenomenon, featuring four animated members: the laid-back frontman 2-D, bassist Murdoc Niccals, guitarist Noodle, and drummer Russel Hobbs. This innovative approach allowed for unparalleled artistic freedom, blurring the lines between music, animation, and social commentary. Over their illustrious career, Gorillaz have consistently pushed creative boundaries, effortlessly blending genres from hip-hop, rock, electronic, and dub to create a sound that is distinctly their own. Their albums, often conceived as narrative arcs for the band’s fictional adventures, have garnered critical acclaim and commercial success.

Iconic hits like “Clint Eastwood,” with its unforgettable reggae-infused beat and Del the Funky Homosapien’s rap verse, became an instant global sensation, defining their early sound. “Feel Good Inc.” featuring De La Soul, with its catchy bassline and introspective lyrics, cemented their status as global superstars, earning them Grammy awards and topping charts worldwide. Other standout tracks include the melancholic “19-2000” (and its Soulchild Remix), the infectious “DARE” with its prominent synths and Shaun Ryder’s distinctive vocals, and the more recent experimental explorations found on albums like Plastic Beach and Humanz. Gorillaz have always championed collaboration, bringing together an eclectic array of musical talent, from Snoop Dogg and Dolly Parton to Little Simz and Beck, each adding their unique flavour to the Gorillaz universe. Their ability to constantly reinvent themselves while retaining their core identity is a testament to their enduring appeal and their place as true innovators in the music industry.

Venue Information

Co-op Live, Manchester’s newest and most exciting entertainment destination, is a purpose-built arena designed to deliver an unparalleled live experience. Boasting state-of-the-art acoustics, cutting-edge technology, and a capacity that ensures an intimate yet spectacular atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for a band as visually and sonically dynamic as Gorillaz. Situated in the heart of Manchester, the venue offers excellent transport links and a vibrant surrounding area. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a visual and auditory feast when Gorillaz take the stage at Co-op Live. Their live performances are renowned for their extraordinary blend of meticulously crafted music and breathtaking visual artistry. Expect a setlist that masterfully weaves together their extensive catalogue, from the seminal anthems that launched their career to the innovative sounds of their more recent releases. Tracks like “Clint Eastwood,” “Feel Good Inc.,” and “DARE” are almost guaranteed to ignite the crowd, eliciting singalongs and euphoric reactions.

However, Gorillaz are never content to simply rehash the past. Their live shows are a dynamic evolution, often featuring surprise guest appearances from their vast network of collaborators, both human and animated. The performance style is inherently theatrical, with the animated avatars of 2-D, Murdoc, Noodle, and Russel playing a central role. Through a sophisticated combination of projection mapping, cutting-edge animation, and live screen integration, the virtual band members interact with the real musicians on stage, creating a seamless and mesmerising spectacle. You might find Noodle shredding a guitar solo alongside her real-world counterpart, or Russel Hobbs unleashing a torrent of beats from behind the virtual drum kit.

The energy of a Gorillaz concert is infectious. Damon Albarn, alongside his supremely talented touring band, delivers a powerhouse performance, anchoring the intricate musical arrangements and engaging with the audience. The transitions between songs are often as artful as the songs themselves, with atmospheric interludes and visual narratives unfolding between musical pieces. While the exact duration can vary, Gorillaz concerts are typically substantial, offering a comprehensive journey through their diverse discography, often running for around two hours or more. Be prepared for moments of pure exhilaration, thoughtful introspection, and a constant sense of wonder as Gorillaz deliver a truly unforgettable live experience.

FAQs

Q1: Will the animated Gorillaz characters be present at the live show? Absolutely. The core of the Gorillaz live experience lies in the seamless integration of their animated members. Through advanced visual technology, including large-scale projections and dynamic screen content, 2-D, Murdoc Niccals, Noodle, and Russel Hobbs will be a prominent and active presence throughout the concert, interacting with the live band and the audience.

Q2: Can I expect to hear Gorillaz’s biggest hits? Without a doubt. Gorillaz are known for curating setlists that honour their rich musical history. You can confidently anticipate hearing beloved classics such as “Clint Eastwood,” “Feel Good Inc.,” and “DARE,” alongside fan favourites from across their extensive discography.

Q3: Are there usually guest performers at Gorillaz concerts? Collaboration is a cornerstone of Gorillaz’s identity, and their live shows frequently feature surprise guest appearances. While specific guests for this Manchester date are not yet confirmed, the band’s history suggests a high probability of notable artists joining them on stage, adding an extra layer of excitement to the performance.

Q4: What is the general age recommendation for this event? Gorillaz’s music spans a wide range of styles and themes, often appealing to a diverse audience. While there isn’t a strict age restriction, parents are advised to consider the live music environment, which can involve loud music and potentially mature lyrical content. Please check the venue’s specific policies regarding unaccompanied minors.

Q5: How long is a typical Gorillaz concert? Gorillaz concerts are generally substantial affairs, designed to provide a comprehensive and immersive experience. You can typically expect the main performance to last for approximately two hours, often extending a little longer with encores and potential interludes.

Q6: Is it possible to meet the band members (animated or otherwise) at the event? Due to the virtual nature of the animated members and the logistical complexities of a large-scale concert tour, opportunities for direct interaction with the Gorillaz characters or Damon Albarn outside of the performance itself are extremely limited. There are no standard meet-and-greet packages typically offered for this type of event.