British trip-hop group Massive Attack and American singer-songwriter Tom Waits have released a new protest song, ‘Boots On The Ground’. The track addresses "recent ICE raids on migrant communities & the killing of civilians that protect them." All proceeds will benefit the American Civil Liberties Union and the US Immigrant Defense Project.
The song features additional vocals from Waits' son Casey. Massive Attack created a soundscape that complements Waits' distinctive vocals. Lyrics include pointed critiques of federal authorities and chilling reflections on violence.
A companion video, developed by Massive Attack using work from US photo artist, visually chronicles events from the murder of George Floyd to recent ICE raids and the realities of American homelessness.
Massive Attack's Robert "3D" Del Naja and Grant "Daddy G" Marshall stated the collaboration arrived amidst an "atmosphere of chaos" and a rise in "state authoritarianism and the militarisation of police forces."
Tom Waits mentioned he accepted the collaboration invitation years ago, noting the song's enduring relevance. He also revealed a b-side for the upcoming vinyl release, which he termed his "appreciation for the winged nuisance."
‘Boots On The Ground’ will be released on vinyl with an "EcoSonic" pressing made from 100% recycled materials. This release follows Massive Attack's recent involvement in a London protest where Robert Del Naja was among those arrested. The band has also backed the "No Music For Genocide" campaign, boycotting performances in Israel since 1999.