In 2010, HMV (His Master’s Voice) was still a dominant force in UK and international physical music retail. To drive foot traffic and reward loyal customers, HMV frequently struck exclusive deals with major artists. For Plastic Beach, the HMV exclusive edition was not just a sticker on a jewel case—it was a significantly different package.
Plastic Beach is Gorillaz’s third studio album, released in 2010. It’s a concept record built around themes of environmental decay, consumerism, nostalgia and the synthetic versus the organic. Musically it blends alternative rock, electronica, hip-hop, orchestral pop and world music, featuring numerous guest artists. The album’s sonic palette, lyrical motifs and visual design create a cohesive narrative centered on an island made of debris — a futuristic fable about human detritus and cultural detachment.
Do not confuse the HMV CD FLAC with the unofficial vinyl rips that circulate. The vinyl version has a different track order (it omits “Welcome to the World of the Plastic Beach” and moves “Sweepstakes”). The HMV CD FLAC retains the original running order.
In 2010, HMV (His Master’s Voice) was still a dominant force in UK and international physical music retail. To drive foot traffic and reward loyal customers, HMV frequently struck exclusive deals with major artists. For Plastic Beach, the HMV exclusive edition was not just a sticker on a jewel case—it was a significantly different package.
Plastic Beach is Gorillaz’s third studio album, released in 2010. It’s a concept record built around themes of environmental decay, consumerism, nostalgia and the synthetic versus the organic. Musically it blends alternative rock, electronica, hip-hop, orchestral pop and world music, featuring numerous guest artists. The album’s sonic palette, lyrical motifs and visual design create a cohesive narrative centered on an island made of debris — a futuristic fable about human detritus and cultural detachment.
Do not confuse the HMV CD FLAC with the unofficial vinyl rips that circulate. The vinyl version has a different track order (it omits “Welcome to the World of the Plastic Beach” and moves “Sweepstakes”). The HMV CD FLAC retains the original running order.