Massive Attack – Collected: The Greatest HitsNever underestimate the evocative power of music. Massive Attack’s sound has a rare and compelling quality that can take you beyond the club or the bedroom. Fittingly, their music is widely used in films and TV drama. This greatest hits collection spans a fifteen year career that has seen the band create a dark, distinctive genre mash-up of electronica, hip-hop, dub and rock.
Their music is infused with the lingering threat of violence. Safe From Harm calls forth some sort of post-industrial wasteland with its haunting synths and mournful female vocals, while the twisted reggae vibes of Five Man Army form a cool backdrop to lyrics exploring themes of urban decay. Angel possesses perhaps the sickest bassline known to man, driving the song to a stunning rock finale of almost Mogwai-esque intensity. Tracks from recent album 100th Window are weaker, and 3D’s deadpan flow can grate, but these are minor criticisms of a superb collection.

1. Safe From Harm
2. Karmacoma
3. Angel
4. Teardrop
5. Inertia Creeps
6. Protection
7. Butterfly Caught
8. Unfinised Sympathy
9. Risingson
10. Future Proof
11. Five Man Army
12. What Your Soul Sings
13. Live With Me

Rating: 4 Stars
Out March 27th