I happened upon a little record shop in Kettering this afternoon, and an interesting place it was. Exactly the sort of place where men buy that third copy of Rubber Soul for £35 because the sleeve is in better condition that their original. CDs seemed very much an embarrassment to be got rid of cheaply, and I was kind enough to help out with a couple.
This is Massive Attack's 4th album, and I think it completes my collection. Coming five years after Mezzanine, it still has a similar restrained feel to that album, with vocals from the band's 3D, old friend Horace Andy, and the much missed Sinead O'Connor. And unsurprisingly, those songs featuring O'Connor are the stand outs. Future Proof open the album gently, and in a very laidback way, and the first Sinead O'Connor offering, What Your Soul Sings follows, and is absolutely lovely. But it isn't long before the calm approach makes the songs just wash over the listener, leaving little impression at times. Everywhen, featuring Horace Andy is a fine listen although it struggles to break through, but Special Cases, the second O'Connor contribution, is a dark, mysterious number which is haunting and beautiful.
After this, Butterfly Caught, feels a little formulaic and unremarkable, but we're soon up to speed with the more lively A Prayer For England, Sinead O'Connor's final song which is another belter. But from there on, it's all a bit nondescript. Small Time Shot Away and Name Taken are background, and the album ends with the twenty minute Antistar, pleasant, gentle but a real extended dreamy trance for eight minutes before a short break and a Tangerine Dream like repeated electronic theme for the final ten.
I'm in two minds about this album. In a darkened room, slippers kicked off, a warm fire and a large glass of Irish whiskey (other stimulants are available) I'm sure this is mind blowing. Sitting at a computer typing, less so. But, having decided that there are too many eight minute tracks which could be four, I'm still minded to give this one the benefit of the doubt. It might not have the highs of Protection (looking at you, Tracey Thorn) but it is more consistent and maintains a mood throughout. Give it a try.
4* - Possibly their most satisfying and consistent offering so far reviewed
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