Gnarls Barkley returns after 18 years
Gnarls Barkley just dropped their first single in 18 years with "Pictures" and announced their third and final album *Atlanta*. The CeeLo Green and Danger Mouse duo is promising to close out their genre-bending legacy with one last statement record. This comeback has electrified both R&B and alternative audiences who've been waiting nearly two decades for new material.
The duo's debut album, *St. Elsewhere*, arrived in 2006, immediately capturing global attention. Its lead single, "Crazy," became a phenomenon, topping charts worldwide and notably becoming the first UK number-one single based on download sales alone. The album itself was a critical success, earning a Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album. Their 2008 follow-up, *The Odd Couple*, was released ahead of schedule due to an internet leak. While it received positive reviews, it didn't replicate the massive commercial success of its predecessor, selling 250,000 copies in the United States as of October 2010. The album's singles, "Run (I'm a Natural Disaster)" and "Going On," saw minor chart success. During the 18-year gap, both artists pursued prolific solo careers. CeeLo Green released several solo albums, including the 2010 hit *The Lady Killer* which featured the viral single "Fuck You" (edited for radio as "Forget You"). He also served as a coach on the popular reality television show *The Voice* from 2011 to 2013. Danger Mouse solidified his reputation as a highly sought-after producer, collaborating with a wide range of prominent artists. His extensive discography from this period includes work with The Black Keys, Beck, Adele, and U2. He also formed the band Broken Bells with James Mercer of The Shins. The final album, *Atlanta*, is a tribute to the city where both artists have roots. CeeLo Green has explained that the lead single "Pictures" is a "full circle moment" inspired by his childhood experiences riding the city's MARTA train system. This final chapter aims to close out the duo's legacy by exploring themes of self-discovery.
