a Massive Attack on the Eardrums and the Soul: A Blue Lines Review

 Artist: Massive Attack

Album:Blue lines

Genre: Soul music, Trip hop, British hip hop, Alternative hip hop

Release date: April 8, 1991

Description: A welcome breath of fresh air to these 100 days of album reviews, Blue Lines is a deep dive into the lo-fi, R&B, Trip-Hop scene that comes to us from across the pond. As a debut release for Massive Attack, this album is a culmination of many tracks and ideas throughout their careers as musicians. The album brings a lot of inspiration from groups such as Pink Floyd, Public Image LTD, Issac Hayes and more. Many have said this album is one of the best in the 90s, if not history, including Rolling Stone having it on their "Top 500 Albums Of All Time" list in 2003, 2012, and 2020! 

Favorite Track: Title track Blue Lines is the choice for this album. Very minimalistic in its instrumentals, this song brings a smooth drum and bass line to the mix. The keys are on point with a smooth yet simplistic sound. The lyrics fly at you with such finesse and flow so smoothly. It's not always about the intricacies of a busy song that makes it best. With this track, the base simplicity is what makes this such a favorite with me. It's easy to get into, and you get hooked right away.

Album Rating: 9.2/10

I really do appreciate a good Hip-Hop style album. When there is a good beat to hook me right away, I'm always in! This album has all the makings of both a chill vibe album, but also one you want to dive right into and explore every melody, rhythm, and phrase as it all comes at you. I am not always one to listen to a debut album from a group, but with this one being handed right to me, it's a nice change of pace to be introduced with the very first release. Along with the supporting vocals of Shara Nelson and Horace Andy, the group brings some amazing lyrics to the table. I know for sure this album is on my favorites list now and will sure show up in a mix or two, no matter the ocasion!