Massive Attack: Heligoland

The album features features guest appearances from TV on the Radio’s Tunde Adebimpe, Martina Topley-Bird, Hope Sandoval, Damon Albarn and more. A review on BBC News calls it "beguiling … rich, textured and seductive," while Pitchfork complained that the album's contents are lackluster. "Drowsy," in a word.

I'm going to agree with the BBC that Heligoland is yet another powerful statement from these British veterans. Although they are forever destined to be judged by breakout album Blue Lines (1991), more than 20 years of discography is a force to be reckoned with. They set trip-hop's standards and impressively, continue to be a presence. It isn't that Massive Attack has "arrived." They've been here.

My only complaint is the decision to not include the EP’s version of the track “Psyche” on the album. Both versions of the track feature haunting vocals by Martina Topley Bird, but the rhythmic interpretation by Van Rivers & The Subliminal Kid is decidedly more effective.

EP: “Psyche (Flash Treatment)”

Album: "Psyche"