Tonight's Artist Hour dives deep into the unmistakable sound of Massive Attack, the Bristol collective who helped define the trip-hop genre and left an indelible mark on modern music.

Formed in the late 1980s by Robert '3D' Del Naja, Grant 'Daddy G' Marshall, and Andrew 'Mushroom' Vowles, Massive Attack emerged from the UK’s sound system culture, blending hip-hop, dub, reggae, soul, and electronica into something wholly their own. Their debut album Blue Lines (1991) is often credited as one of the pioneering trip-hop records, with the unforgettable “Unfinished Sympathy” still ranked among the greatest tracks of the era.

Over the years, Massive Attack’s music has remained politically charged, sonically adventurous, and constantly evolving. Albums like Protection (1994) and Mezzanine (1998) brought collaborations with artists such as Tracey Thorn, Horace Andy, and Elizabeth Fraser, pushing the boundaries of mood and atmosphere in popular music. Their influence can be heard across countless genres, from electronic and alternative rock to modern hip-hop and pop production.

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While the group is famously elusive, their cultural impact is impossible to ignore. They’ve sound-tracked films, TV series, and political movements, often pairing their music with striking visual and live experiences. Even now, decades into their career, Massive Attack continue to inspire both artists and fans alike with their bold artistic vision.

Tune in tonight at 8pm for an uninterrupted hour celebrating Massive Attack's legacy, only on Today Radio.