Mezzanine by Massive Attack (Click here to comment/discuss)
Guest Editor: Pete Ritchie
My first introduction to Mezzanine was through
the song 'Teardrop'. It definitely was, and still is to a naturally lesser
extent a very popular play for music channels and radio.
It won MTV Europe Music Award for Best Video, and has been featured in several
TV series, including 'House' and 'Prison Break'.
I find it incredibly powerful, and chilling.
Another great song on the album is 'Angel'; I remember listening to it while
running. It is suspenseful, dramatic and dark. The video is also excellent; it
has been interpreted to
signify confronting your fears. The distorted bassy sound that builds and
builds evokes anxiety, but grips you.
This distortion continues in 'Risingson'. The sound is typical for Massive
Attack, whose music is influenced by several genres: Dub, Reggae and Hip-Hop.
They essentially pioneered Trip-Hop, and alongside
Portishead are the biggest band in the genre. The Reggae influence can be
particularly heard on the collaborations with Jamaican singer and songwriter
'Horace Andy'. He features on 'Angel' and 'Man Next Door'.
'Man Next Door' takes you on a heavy, immersive journey.
For me, the best song on the album is 'Dissolved Girl'. Mysterious vocals, and
a well crafted bass melody amazingly fit the theme of the rest of the album.
The calming ambience of 'Exchange', almost feels like sarcastic humour when
mixed alongside all the moody, gritty alternatives.
The album comes to its end with a run of songs, that have this distinct MA
sound.
I particularly like 'Black Milk' which has a haunting, vintage feel to it. The
looping low-end drives you round the bend in a fantastic way.
Tension, bass and beautiful eclecticism sum up Mezzanine. It is thrilling, but
expect a somewhat challenging listen at times. Zone out, appreciate it, and
take note of how you feel; it very well may move you.
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