Murdoc Niccals Phase 2 Explained: the Ultimate Guide to Gorillaz's Greatest Era
By Chloe Bennett
Hewlett's line work underwent a massive upgrade between 2004 and 2005. Murdoc’s skin tone shifted noticeably from an olive-gray pallor to a toxic, rotting olive green, attributed in band lore to decades of substance abuse, hygiene neglect, and a literal pact with Satan. His trademark asymmetrical teeth became sharper, his fingernails grew longer and grime-stained, and his wardrobe moved from 1970s mod threads into military fatigues, capes, and inverted silver crucifixes.
His weapon of choice in Phase 2 was the iconic Gibson Flying V bass, customized in matte black with chrome hardware. Unlike the pedestrian bass setups from the self-titled debut, Murdoc used the Flying V to establish his theatrical stage presence during the rare live residency shows at the Manchester Opera House in November 2005. The instrument anchored the hypnotic, dub-heavy basslines of tracks like "Kids with Guns" and "Feel Good Inc," played in reality by session master Morgan Nicholls and Albarn himself.
Chloe Bennett explores the intersection of pop culture, streaming entertainment, digital trends, and contemporary lifestyle. Her weekly commentary reaches thousands of culture enthusiasts.
