Seven years after its last album, Massive Attack's release of Heligoland comes with an indisputable sense of occasion. But the album could struggle to find fans - unless established supporters are satisfied with a lack of progress.
The depth shown in Massive Attack's past work, such as Mezzanine, the 1998 album that is largely viewed as its best, seems to be absent here, although some may say the group is exploring uncharted territory. But the mixing of experimental ambient layers of sound with the industrial tones that the group has long used makes this collection seem less novel.
Nevertheless, the album does contain some great songs, some irresistibly energetic, while guest artists lend colour to the collection.
The overall mood is mellow, peaceful and pensive, especially in the psychedelic ending to the first track Pray for Rain, and the solemn, rumbling jazz elements of Girl I Love You.
Flat of The Blade carries on the dense sonic landscapes heard on the album 100th Window, while parts of Paradise Circus are reminiscent of Mezzanine.
Heligoland is splendid if you like what Massive Attack has done on preview albums - relaxed rhythms and trademark vocal styles. But you won't find innovation here.