Damon Albarn is planning a new Gorillaz album.

The 47-year-old star has revealed he is set to start recording the group's new record in September as a follow-up to 2011's 'The Fall', scheduled for a 2016 release.

He told Australian television programme, ABC's '7.30': ''I'm starting recording in September for a new Gorillaz record.

''I've just been really, really busy so I haven't had a chance.

''I'd love to just get back in to that routine of being at home and coming to the studio five days a week.''

The virtual band - who released their eponymous debut in 2001 - is a collaboration between the Blur frontman and animator JAMIE HEWLETT, who teased on Instagram earlier this year that a comeback could be happening.

Along with new sketches of fictional band members Murdoc and Noodle, he wrote: ''Yes Gorillaz Returns (sic)''.

The future of the partnership had been left in doubt following a well-publicised fallout, although last year Damon revealed it had brought them closer together.

He said at the time: ''I can definitely see another Gorillaz-esque record at some point, yeah.

''That will almost definitely happen. I could put a Gorillaz record out next week; I've got enough stuff I haven't finished.

''There are points in every relationship where they fall out with people that they're close to and then they reconcile, hopefully, and actually, you know the relationship's probably in a healthier place as a result of that.''