The Gorillaz have shared a short animated story on their social media accounts, that explains the story of the band’s fictional guitarist, Noodle.

The virtual band — which was created by wacky duo Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett — seems to be signalling that their hotly-anticipated new album, and the follow-up to 2011’s ‘The Fall’, is nearing completion.

Part of the band’s image and appeal has been their iconic cartoon personas, and The Book of Noodle is clearly an extension of this —  Jamie Hewlett also famously created another popular character, Tank Girl.

Check out the animated short below and stay tuned to Gorillaz's social media accounts for more updates.