It’s been a good five years since we last heard from Damon Albarn’s genius project known as Gorillaz. Its last album, “Demon Days,” was loved by practically anyone and everyone who listened to music. It spawned the timeless hit single “Feel Good Inc.” which was arguably one of the best songs of the decade.

Gorillaz are finally back with a new album titled “Plastic Beach.” It is great to have them back after half a decade, especially since it wasn’t supposed to happen — “Demon Days” was supposed to be the end of the cartoon band, but something happened that allowed the project to live on.

When listening to “Plastic Beach,” you begin to realize it is a lot different from the other two albums in Gorillaz’s small discography. Almost every track features a guest artist of some kind. Most of these aren’t names that you usually throw around as guest features, such as Lou Reed, Snoop Dogg and Mos Def.

“Plastic Beach” is a group of artists working together to create a concept album about an imaginary beach with way too much pollution, making “Plastic Beach” a lot different than any other Gorillaz album.

The album as a whole is a great listen from start to finish; it starts with a lush orchestral instrumental that perfectly transports the listener to this imaginary beach. The next thing you know, you get welcomed by the one and only Snoop Dogg. The album doesn’t slow down for an extra breath.

It is a colorfully vibrant album that includes a range of different styles. One second you’re rapping alongside “White Flag,” and the next you’re bopping to the catchy pop-rock of Lou Reed-featured “Some Kind Of Nature.”

Although the songs with featured guests may be enjoyable, the true standout moments on “Plastic Beach” are when Damon Albarn goes solo.

“On Melancholy Hill” is the standout song on “Plastic Beach” simply because of its sincerity. You can feel the sense of importance while listening to it because Albarn sounds more comfortable than he ever has with the Gorillaz — it’s practically his natural state.

These sentiments ring true with other Albarn lead songs such as “Rhinestone Eyes.” Reminiscent of Gorillaz’s earlier sound, “Rhinestone Eyes” is one of the few moments when Albarn borrows some of his past.

When critics and fans start piecing together their “Best of 2010” lists, there better be room for “Plastic Beach” because it is by far one of the strongest albums of the year.