Massive Attack electrifies the crowd during their recent performance. Picture: Alamy
After a five-year hiatus, the iconic trip-hop group Massive Attack made a triumphant return to the stage on June 5th at Gothenburg Film Studios in Sweden. This highly anticipated performance marked their first live show since their sold-out two-night stint at NYC’s Radio City Music Hall in 2019 and their first since the passing of their guitarist Angelo Bruschini last year.
The evening was filled with nostalgic energy and unforgettable moments as the band delivered a setlist packed with hits. Adding to the excitement, Massive Attack surprised fans with a number of special guests, including the legendary Elizabeth Fraser, the ethereal voice behind the Cocteau Twins.
Fraser’s collaboration with Massive Attack on their acclaimed Mezzanine album is considered a landmark moment in trip-hop history. Fans were ecstatic as she joined the band on stage to perform their iconic hit “Teardrop,” sending shivers down spines with her haunting vocals.
Elizabeth Fraser joins Massive Attack on stage for a powerful rendition of “Song to the Siren”. Credit: @ukicar12 on Instagram
The magic continued with a breathtaking rendition of “Song to the Siren.” Originally written and performed by Tim Buckley, this ethereal ballad gained wider recognition through the 1983 cover by This Mortal Coil, which featured Fraser and her Cocteau Twins bandmate Robin Guthrie. Hearing Fraser revisit this song alongside Massive Attack was a truly special experience for longtime fans.
The night continued with more surprise appearances. Renowned producer and musician Horace Andy, known for his collaborations with Massive Attack on tracks like “Angel” and “Hymn of the Big Wheel,” lent his distinctive vocals to both songs, infusing the performance with his signature blend of dub and reggae influences.
Scottish hip-hop trio Young Fathers, known for their experimental and politically charged music, joined Massive Attack for a powerful performance of “Voodoo in My Blood,” showcasing the band’s continued commitment to collaborating with innovative artists.
Longtime Massive Attack vocalist Deborah Miller also captivated the audience with her soulful renditions of “Unfinished Sympathy” and the fan-favorite “Safe from Harm.” Her powerful stage presence and vocal prowess added an extra layer of emotion to the band’s already captivating performance.
The energy at the Gothenburg Film Studios was electric during Massive Attack’s performance. Credit: @melikork on Instagram
This triumphant return to the stage in Gothenburg was just the beginning for Massive Attack’s 2024 tour. Fans are eagerly awaiting their upcoming performances, which include a highly anticipated set at Bilbao BBK Live in July and an appearance at the prestigious Montreux Jazz Festival. With their reputation for delivering unforgettable live shows and their commitment to pushing musical boundaries, Massive Attack continues to prove their status as one of the most important and influential bands of their generation.
