Music
Preview: BST Hyde Park with Massive Attack will mark itself in history in more ways than one
Festival line-ups are often a bit eclectic, with good reason. Cross-genre artists fuse the schedule with new and established acts, but the strong thread at this Friday’s BST Hyde Park is outstanding.
Synced in layers of lyrical poetry, nonconformist sounds and raw energy, every artist has something to say, and performs with an open soul. With Massive Attack at needle end, it’s a welcome return to London for the trip hop legends. Following a run of Brixton shows earlier this year with a backdrop of confrontational political messages in neon facts and numbers, we’re sure this Friday will be no exception, and more poignant than ever before. Long-time collaborator Tricky has announced he will join them on stage, suggesting a set of classic material from Blue Lines right through to the present day.
Continuing the theme of visual art and poetry, the fearless Patti Smith will bring us her measure of stories with a punk twist; whereas Mercury Prize winners Young Fathers will share their own social commentary with a hip hop-inspired sound and unbelievable physical energy. Brooklyn’s liberal and progressive heroes TV On The Radio will share their dark political themes dressed in strong harmonies, horns and synths, and Ghostpoet, a poet by name and nature, will bring his lyrical prowess and observations on the nation’s struggles with his heart on his sleeve.
It’s fitting that in a time of uncertainty, every band on this line-up has political and social conversation at its roots. We’re expecting multiple moments of solidarity and walls of cheers as thousands of people echo lyrical opinions together at the top of their lungs; this is what makes this event so special, and will mark itself in history for more than one reason.
Find the last remaining tickets here.
