About this album

Sound: "A haunting blend of atmospheric beats and soulful melodies that encapsulates the essence of trip hop."

Where they were

By the time 'Collected' was released in 2006, Massive Attack had already established themselves as pioneers of the trip hop genre with seminal albums like 'Blue Lines' (1991) and 'Mezzanine' (1998). This compilation album serves as a retrospective of their influential sound and includes tracks from various stages of their career, marking a moment of reflection after a five-year hiatus since their last studio album, '100th Window'.

Why it matters

The album achieved commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart and solidifying Massive Attack's legacy in electronic music. It is also notable for its critical reception, being praised for its cohesive representation of the band's work and its influence on subsequent artists within the downtempo and electronic scenes.

Essential tracks

  • "Teardrop" — This track features ethereal vocals from Elizabeth Fraser and is emblematic of the band's ability to merge melancholy with stunning production.
  • "Angel" — With its haunting lyrics and immersive soundscape, 'Angel' showcases Massive Attack's skill in creating emotionally resonant music that feels both intimate and expansive.
  • "Safe From Harm" — 'Safe From Harm' effectively illustrates the fusion of reggae influences with electronic elements, marking a significant moment in the band's early evolution.
  • "Karmacoma" — 'Karmacoma' represents the group's innovative blending of genres, incorporating hip-hop rhythms and world music influences into their signature sound.

Release Date

March 27, 2006

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

Disc 1

  1. 1 Safe From Harm 5:19
  2. 2 Karmacoma 5:14
  3. 3 Angel 6:14
  4. 4 Teardrop 5:28
  5. 5 Inertia Creeps 5:54
  6. 6 Protection 7:45
  7. 7 Butterfly Caught 5:08
  8. 8 Unfinished Sympathy 5:12
  9. 9 Risingson 4:57
  10. 10 What Your Soul Sings 6:37
  11. 11 Future Proof 5:42
  12. 12 Five Man Army 5:21
  13. 13 Sly 4:56
  14. 14 Live With Me 4:51

Disc 2

  1. 1 False Flags 5:40
  2. 2 Incantations 3:19
  3. 3 Silent Spring 3:07
  4. 4 Bullet Boy 4:04
  5. 5 Black Melt 5:12
  6. 6 Joy Luck Club 4:58
  7. 7 Small Time Shoot 'em Up 6:44
  8. 8 I Against I 5:42
  9. 9 I Want You 6:21
  10. 10 Danny the Dog 6:02

Disc 3

  1. 1 Daydreaming 5:17
  2. 2 Unfinished Sympathy 5:20
  3. 3 Safe From Harm 4:57
  4. 4 Be Thankful For What You've Got 6:28
  5. 5 Sly 5:16
  6. 6 Protection 5:53
  7. 7 Karmacoma 4:15
  8. 8 Risingson 5:00
  9. 9 Teardrop 4:44
  10. 10 Angel 5:23
  11. 11 Inertia Creeps 5:29