From Teardrop to Singapore ban, a guide to Massive Attack
Massive Attack have landed in Australia for a run of sold-out arena shows this week. If you're wondering what makes them such a big deal, here's your crash course.
Massive Attack, a British electronic music group, emerged in 1988 and pioneered the atmospheric, cross-genre sound known as trip hop. Their groundbreaking albums, Blue Lines (1991), Protection (1994), and Mezzanine (1998), remain influential today, inspiring artists like Portishead, Gorillaz, Radiohead, and The Weeknd. The core members, Robert "3D" Del Naja and Grant "Daddy G" Marshall, have collaborated with numerous singers and producers, resulting in diverse productions that often diverge from their original intent.
Beyond music, Massive Attack has been active in social causes and activism, including anti-war protests and advocating for sustainable practices in live music. Their recent activism included staging the 100% battery-powered and vegan 2024 Act 1.5 festival in Bristol, which reduced emissions by 98% compared to comparable shows. However, this same activism led to a ban from Singapore after they unfurled a Palestinian flag and chanted "Free Palestine" during a concert there.
Despite the ban, Massive Attack's influential discography includes essential tracks such as "Unfinished Sympathy" and "Angel," showcasing their unique blend of R&B, soul, and electronic elements.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
