Massive Attack's First Song in Six Years Features Tom Waits

"Tom Waits sings about the recent socio-political turmoil in America, stating, 'Born shiny bullets in an army of pants, blow that horn, we sleep in our pants,' followed by a curious mention of 'big titties, big titties.'"

"Robert '3D' Del Naja and Grant 'Daddy G' Marshal remarked, 'It's a career honour to collaborate with an artist of the magnitude, originality and integrity of Tom, but this track is arriving in an atmosphere of chaos.'"

"'Across the western hemisphere, state authoritarianism and the militarisation of police forces are fusing again with neo-fascist politics,' they added, highlighting the urgency of the song's message."

"'The economic burden that has long been placed on artists is now compounded by a moral & ethical burden,' Massive Attack stated when they requested their music be pulled from Spotify."

Massive Attack returns with the single 'Boots on the Ground,' featuring Tom Waits, who comments on socio-political issues in America. The song includes a short film showcasing photography from pandemic-era protests and ICE raids. Robert Del Naja and Grant Marshal express their honor in collaborating with Waits, emphasizing the chaotic atmosphere of state authoritarianism and neo-fascist politics. Massive Attack previously addressed global issues in a 2020 EP and withdrew their music from Spotify due to ethical concerns. The duo plans a European tour in May.

Read at Pitchfork