She was great on Maxinquaye; been meaning to get into her solo stuff.

While female vocals in trip-hop are usually what I go for, I know what you mean. Just today actually, I couldn't bear to listen to "Teardrops" in full for whatever reason, and Mezzanine is one of my favorite albums so you'd think such a thing wouldn't be a problem. The genre/band requires a really specific mood, I suppose.

Saw Massive Attack in Paris @ Rock en Seine a couple of weeks ago. Really good show from what I can remember, which isn't that much as the bassline to Safe from Harm made me, to use the term lightly, whitey! And I spent the last 1/3 of the gig sitting on the floor!

Faves by Massive Attack would have to be Teardrop (aka the theme song for House MD) or Inertia Creeps.

I have played Mezzanine more than most of the cds I own and I own over 1000 :yeah:

Mezzanine has been in regular rotation for me too. What's funny is that way back when it came out, I never realized that it was Liz Fraser singing Teardrop although I was well-accustomed to the Cocteau Twins' "sound". Context will throw you I guess.

B
* Newbie *

I only have Mezzanine. Love it! Keep meaning to get the much lauded Blue Lines but never got around to it.

Another notable track that I absolutely love is Protection. Tracey Thorn's cold and distant vocals just completely suits their music!

Protection and Mezzanine are great albums. Blue Lines has more of an R&B/soulful feel, but just as moving as the other two. I never really got into 100th Window or the new one, Heligoland. They just don't grab me in an emotional way the way the first three albums do. Although Heligoland's opener, "Pray For Rain," with vocals by TV On the Radio's Tunde Adebimpe, is a great, memorable track.

I saw MA live on the Mezzanine tour at the Hollywood Paladium. I was hoping Liz Cocteau would tour with them, but I believe it was Shara Nelson from Blue Lines who replaced her on that tour. The person who really impressed me most at that show, though, was Horace Andy. He can really sing. It took me some time to develop an appreciation for his reggae-styled vocals, but after seeing him live with MA, I have a new appreciation. ...Not to mention, 3D is one intense, hot little dude. Damn. ...Yeah, I have a thing for intense, hot little dudes.

Does anyone else get annoyed with people who only say they like Massive Attack because of Teardrop?

Well, if they act like they're a huge fan but only know Teardrop, then yes it is annoying/funny. But if they are genuine about it that they only know that one song and are curious to discover more, then more power to them! Personally, I only have Mezz and know a few assorted songs here and there over the years. Of course, I wouldn't call myself a huge fan. I like what I've heard and am curious for more.