FORMED: 1987, Bristol, England
This Bristol trio has become one of the best trip-hop groups ever, even possibly responsible for the trip-hop genre, featuring the skills of Grant Marshall (aka Daddy Gee), Robert del Naja (3D), and Andrew Vowles (Mushroom). In 1988 they formed the creative core of Massive Attack. Three years later in 1991 their debut album Blue Lines was greeted with much acclaim. While 1994's album Protection was even a greater artistic and commercial success (both albums sold over a million units worldwide).
The albums feature contributions from Horace Andy and Tracey Thorn of Everything But The Girl; also appearing are Nicolette and fellow Bristolian Tricky, both now in their own solo careers. Not until 1998 did their long awaited third album, Mezzanine, come out. Mezzanine features vocals from Horace Andy, Elizabeth Fraser, and Sara Jay. This album is a bit darker and more abrasive than it's predecessors. Massive Attack also contributes work to various soundtracks and collections.
Some of the soundtracks that feature their music are; Batman Forever, Best Laid Plans, Fan, Insider, Jackal, Mission Impossible, Moulin Rouge, Nowhere, Sliver, Stigmata and Blade 2. Massive Attack continues to expand upon the diverse themes of music. We have seen a full range of the group's extraordinary vision. In 1999, Mushroom left Massive Attack feeling disappointed with their work on Mezzanine. They have recently collaborated with David Bowie and The Dandy Warhols. Massive Attack continue to work on their new album, due for release in September of 2002.
