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It's been almost 20 years since Gorillaz put the concept of an animated band on our radar.

Some might have initially dismissed Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett's cartoon creations as novelty but the music – which melds pop, hip-hop and dub elements – underpinning the project has long since spoken for itself with a host of big-hitting anthems marking Gorillaz out as one of our most enduring acts.

This year saw the release of fifth album, Humanz, which pulled in favours from A-list collaborators including Grace Jones, Vince Staples, Popcaan, Danny Brown, Kelela and Benjamin Clementine. Following a weekend of one-off events with Reprezent radio, tonight marks Gorillaz' triumphant return to stage with two blockbuster shows at the O2 Arena sure to see some of these friends lend a hand on stage.

Ahead of the gigs we caught up with animated bandmates Murdoc and 2D, who gave us their take on the capital's best bits.

What makes London a special city?

Murdoc: Got to be the skyline. A beautiful turd-soup of ancient, modern, stunning and f*****g hideous. The architectural version of swiping right to everything.

2D: London is the capital and most populous city of England, and has been a major settlement for two millennia. It--

Murdoc: Get off Wikipedia, 2D. Why did I get you that smartphone?

2D: You said it’s so you could track every single move I make.

Murdoc: Exactly. Don’t abuse that privilege.

Best venues to play?

2D: Anywhere with well-appointed toilet facilities. Performing makes me nervous.

Murdoc: Agreed. Bogs are key. Though for different reasons.

Best venues for catching new music?

2D: London Underground. The buskers are cool, and the transport links are great.

Murdoc: I don’t go to gigs. When you’re a megastar, it’s hard to watch other bands without being mobbed by fans after a selfie or a brass-rubbing of my camel-toe.

Best place for an after-party?

Murdoc: Probably our gaff. Most London venues can’t handle the chaos and destruction I bring to an after party. Takes 2D weeks to rebuild afterwards.

Which borough do you feel most at home in?

2D: I really like Londonborough.

You've got a day off in the city - what do you get up to?

Murdoc: Being an editor now (I’ve just published a Gorillaz magazine – yeah, watch out Osborne), I’d do a tour of London’s more literary pubs, finishing in The Dog & Duck in Soho, where George Orwell used to get plastered. I believe the pickled eggs still date to his time.

What's your take on London's food scene and any favourite places to eat?

2D: I’ve always dreamed of going to an Aberdeen Angus Steakhouse, but Murdoc says he’s unable to release the funds to me for tax reasons.

Are any of London's biggest tourist traps worth the visit?

Murdoc: Tell you where isn’t – Madame Tussauds. Bunch of ungrateful clowns. I’ve had my secretary (2D) write them at least a dozen letters, even drawn up plans for the waxwork (including toning down my crotch area to make it family-friendly) but had zero reply.

Any secret favourite spots?

2D: There’s a bit of canal near Kings Cross where I watch the ducks go by. My best duck friend is Karl, although I’m a bit worried ‘cos I’ve not seen him for the past few weeks. Karl, if you’re reading this, please get in touch.

Best place for peace and quiet?

2D: I sometimes paint myself gold and join the other people meditating in Covent Garden. You have to stand very still for hours, and try not to blink.

London's most inspiring view?

Murdoc: Anywhere with me stood in front of it.

Most vivid London memory?

Murdoc: Never trust vivid memories because it’s most likely an acid flashback. That’s my motto. Right, I’m Hank Marvin. Where’s the nearest Aberdeen Angus Steakhouse? 2D, you can wait outside with the wheels and watch for traffic wardens. Laters all!

Gorillaz play the O2 Arena on December 4 and 5