Books & Spoken Word

Melissa Chemam: Massive Attack – Out of the Comfort Zone

Date: Saturday, Mar 2 2019
Time: 2:00pm
Venue: Rough Trade
Price: £14.99

Launch event for author and journalist, Melissa Chemam’s major new book on Massive Attack, published by Bristol-based Tangent Books.

The book examines the influences that led to the formation of the Wild Bunch and then Massive Attack and looks into Bristol’s past to explore how the city helped shape one of the most successful and innovative musical movements of the last 30 years. Chemam gives a unique insight into Massive Attack – 3D, Daddy G and Mushroom – their influences, collaborations and politics and the way in which they opened the door for other Bristol musicians and artists including Banksy.

She charts their rise out of communities of working- and middle-class kids from British families alongside Jamaican, Irish, Italian and Asian immigrants, discussing their art, politics, reflections on their own identity, and the development of their astounding music, loved all over the world. She details the making of their groundbreaking album Blue Lines, as well as the impact of their followings records, including Mezzanine, and talks about the band’s unique collaborations with Horace Andy, Shara Nelson, Tracey Thorn, Madonna, Elizabeth Fraser, Sinéad O’Connor, Mos Def, Damon Albarn, Young Fathers, Adam Curtis, Banksy and many more.

EatDrink24/7 Launch Party is back on July 8 2026!
Exclusive collabs from Bristol’s favourite food vendors, available for one night only. Be first to grab your free copy of the EatDrink24/7 guide – plus every ticket comes with a free limited-edition beer can.

This Rough Trade event includes a DJ set with Queen Bee and a conversation with the author.

Book tickets

By joe melia, Wednesday, Feb 6 2019

Related listings

EATDRINK24/7 LAUNCH PARTY
CALLING ALL FOODIES!

Bristol's only truly independent food & drink guide is back, and we're throwing a party to celebrate on July 8 2026 at Wiper and True Brewery & Taproom, Old Market.

  • Exclusive collaborations from Bristol's favourite food vendors (you can't try these special dishes anywhere else)
  • Be the first to pick up your free copy of the EatDrink24/7 Guide
  • Music + great drinks
  • Each ticket includes a beer from Wiper and True, a special limited-edition can created just for the occasion.

One night only - don't miss out

Get Your Ticket

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