Massive Attack - Live on Glastonbury 2008

Glastonbury 2008 review: Massive Attack


Their hypnotic hybrid of blues, R&B, rock and electronica is an unhurried pleasure

Read more Glasto 2008 live reviews

Betty Clarke
Sunday 29 June 2008
guardian.co.uk

Where and when: the Other stage, 10.45pm

Dress code: Singer and impassive face of the band, Robert Del Naja (aka 3D), wears a smart suit jacket, an armband on each elbow. Singer Yolanda glistens in a gold dress, while guest vocalist Stephanie Dosen looks like a china doll in a fitted jacket and corseted dress.

Who's watching: Refugees fleeing from rap who don't feel cosy within Massive Attack's dense folds of darkness

In a nutshell: What's usually the most coveted headline spot of the weekend must feel like a poisoned chalice to Massive Attack. But far from being overwhelmed by the might of controversy-consumed Jay-Z, the experimental Bristolians boast a sizeable, if slightly befuddled, crowd. Where their rival is self-eulogising and boastful, Massive Attack are anonymous and quietly ambitious, their hypnotic hybrid of blues, R&B, rock and electronica is an unhurried pleasure. With a new album slated for release next year, the band mix old favourites with unknown pleasures, with a little help from their famous friends. Alongside Del Naja, Grant "Daddy G" Marshall and soulful chanteuse Yolanda, reggae legend Horace Andy, is a whispering, passion-bubbling presence on Angel - raw and wanting as the tick-tock rhythm explodes into shards of steely guitar. Karma Coma still chills despite the absence of Tricky, while angelic songstress and new collaborator Stephanie Dosen is a fragile and ethereal presence, slipping into Liz Frazer's shoes with ease on the gorgeous Teardrop.

She softens Del Naja's menacing voice on the blistering chaos of Marakesh, and sways gently while Del Naja throws angular dance moves, green strobe lights reaching out across the field beyond them.

High point: Robert Del Naja changes the message of Safe From Harm from paranoia to peace, dedicating it Nelson Mandela.

Low point: Singer Yolanda has the emotional intensity for Unfinished Sympathy but not the power of Shara Nelson's classic performance.

Mark out of 10: 7

What does it all mean, maan?: Hip-hop's for tourists, trip-hop is for life.