The ground breaking, genre splitting Massive Attack was the band that laid the foundations to my lifelong passion - music. So when news broke that there would be a fifth studio album and tour, an immense rush of adrenalin flooded my body. Friend of the band, Damon Albarn and Elbow’s Guy Garvey were rumoured to be joining the Bristol Institution on their latest album which just added to the excitement. Numerous bad reports from their set at Bestival could not stop my unyielding expectations.
With the sold out Brixton Academy playing host to an evening of high anticipation from fans alike, there was an affable atmosphere, even Danny G was mixing with the crowd prior to his stage appearance. Opening with a barrage of Massive Attacks darker backlog, it took some time for the crowd to settle, it was only until more familiar tracks were played they seemed to relax.
The distinctive honeyed vocals of 3D melted into the venue; the perfect clattering of drums sent vibrations through my rib cage and the mellowed bass and synth pulled the hairs on the back of my neck upright. An unfamiliar arrangement of 'Teardop’ was somewhat disappointing, however with the introduction of long standing member Horace Andy, the crowd responded with a raucous cheer and applaud to this inimitable character; highlighting how imperative Andy has been to the success of the band. 'Angel’ was perfectly executed, Massive Attack were back on form and elevating the crowd with every track.
A break to re-arrange the instruments left the crowd waiting awkwardly. The band finally resurfaces with a new addition loitering to the side of the stage. We are treated to a guest appearance from the legendary Damon Albarn. The intoduction of Shara Nelson’s vocals on 'Safe from Harm’ and 'Unfinished Symphony’ were among the many highlights of a varied and extremely fulfilling evening.
Call me self indulgent but if 'One Love’ and 'I Against I’ were played that would have put the icing on this exquisitely crafted cake.
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