Back in 2000, rapper Del The Funky Homosapien (Gorillaz), DJ Kid Koala (Yo Gabba Gabba), and producer Dan The Automator (Handsome Boy Modeling School) combined forces to bring the hip hop world Deltron 3030. Described as a futuristic concept album, the trio created a musical dystopia where rebel forces lyrically duke it out in an effort to overthrow their 31st-century oppressors.

The indie project was a modest hit, gaining a cult following over the years and pointing all involved towards other oddball concept projects. Particularly, Lovage, and Gorillaz.

Jump forward to 2013 and Koala, Del and Automator continued their “rap opera” with Deltron 3030 Event II. Just like the 2000 release, Del and company are co-signed by a seemingly random assortment of vocal talent. Joseph Gordon-Levitt (Don Jon) and Mary Elizabeth Winstead (Scott Pilgrim vs. The World) lend cinematic credibility to this saga. Meanwhile, Damon Albarn (Gorillaz), Zack De La Rocha (Rage Against the Machine), and many more bring punch to their respective chorus work.

It’s a welcome return, one that stylistically and thematically opts for consistent groove over the looming fad of spastic grandstanding.

Below, I’ve included a playlist highlighting not just Deltron 3030 but also the illustrious career of producer Dan The Automator and his many collaborations.

The list includes tracks from the super-sexy Got A Girl album with actress Mary Elizabeth Winstead as well. It debuts tomorrow everywhere. Be sure to ask for it.


Troy-Jeffrey Allen writes about action/adventure for Action A Go Go. He is a comic book writer whose works include Bamn, The Magic Bullet, and the Harvey Award nominated District Comics. His work has been featured in the City Paper, The Baltimore Sun, Bethesda Magazine, The Examiner, and The Washington Post.