Massive Attack - Mezzanine (2LP) - 180g Vinyl

"Mezzanine," the third studio album by British trip-hop group Massive Attack, was released on April 20, 1998. The album marked a significant departure from the band's earlier work, incorporating a darker, more atmospheric sound that has since become iconic. The lineup for this album included Robert "3D" Del Naja, Grant "Daddy G" Marshall, and Andrew "Mushroom" Vowles, with contributions from long-time collaborator Horace Andy and newcomer Elizabeth Fraser of Cocteau Twins.

The album opens with "Angel," a track that sets the tone for the entire record. Horace Andy's haunting vocals are layered over a slow, brooding bassline, creating a sense of tension that is both captivating and unsettling. This track exemplifies the band's ability to blend different genres, combining elements of dub, rock, and electronic music to create a unique soundscape.

"Inertia Creeps" is another standout track, featuring a hypnotic beat and Middle Eastern-inspired melodies. The song's lyrics, delivered by 3D, explore themes of paranoia and existential dread, fitting perfectly with the album's overall mood. The use of unconventional instruments and samples adds to the track's complexity, making it one of the most memorable on the album.

"Teardrop," perhaps the most well-known song from "Mezzanine," features the ethereal vocals of Elizabeth Fraser. The track's minimalist arrangement, centered around a simple piano riff and subtle electronic beats, allows Fraser's voice to take center stage. The song's emotional depth and haunting beauty have made it a timeless classic, often used in film and television soundtracks.

"Risingson" and "Dissolved Girl" continue the album's exploration of dark, introspective themes. "Risingson" features a heavy, distorted bassline and cryptic lyrics, while "Dissolved Girl" incorporates elements of industrial rock, with its aggressive guitar riffs and pounding drums. Both tracks showcase the band's willingness to experiment with different sounds and styles, pushing the boundaries of the trip-hop genre.

"Man Next Door," a cover of a classic reggae song by John Holt, is given a dark, modern twist on "Mezzanine." Horace Andy's vocals are once again a highlight, adding a sense of melancholy to the track. The band's use of electronic effects and atmospheric production techniques transforms the song into something entirely new, while still paying homage to its roots.

The album's title track, "Mezzanine," is an instrumental piece that serves as a bridge between the more vocal-heavy songs. Its layered textures and intricate production create a sense of unease, perfectly capturing the album's overall mood. The track's placement in the middle of the album provides a moment of reflection, allowing listeners to fully absorb the emotional weight of the preceding songs.

"Group Four" and "(Exchange)" close out the album on a high note. "Group Four" is an epic, seven-minute track that builds to a powerful crescendo, with Fraser's vocals soaring over a dense, multi-layered arrangement. "(Exchange)" is a more subdued, instrumental piece that provides a sense of closure, bringing the album full circle.

"Mezzanine" was both a critical and commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart and receiving widespread acclaim from music critics. The album's innovative production techniques and genre-blending sound have influenced countless artists in the years since its release. It remains a landmark in the trip-hop genre and a testament to Massive Attack's enduring creativity and vision.

In conclusion, "Mezzanine" is a masterful album that showcases Massive Attack's ability to evolve and experiment with their sound. Its dark, atmospheric production and emotionally charged lyrics make it a compelling listen from start to finish. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the band's music, "Mezzanine" is an essential addition to any music collection.