Massive Attack to Release New Music Cache in 2026 – But Not on Spotify

Massive Attack plans to drop a cache of recent work physically and digitally in 2026, skipping Spotify due to ethical reasons.

A New Chapter for Massive Attack’s Music

If you're a fan of Massive Attack, you know the Bristol legends don’t rush releases. Their blend of trip-hop, atmospheric beats, and haunting vocals have kept us hooked for decades. After their last full album, Heligoland in 2010, and the self-released EP Eutopia in 2020, the wait for fresh tunes has been a long one—and it looks like 2026 will finally bring a treasure trove of new music.

Robert Del Naja, the creative force behind Massive Attack.

Their announcement came through an Instagram post where they teased a “cache of work created in the recent past” to be released next year. But here’s the twist: their music will be available physically and digitally via a new label — with one notable exception — no Spotify.

This move continues a trend of artists reevaluating their relationship with streaming platforms, especially Spotify, with which Massive Attack has a well-documented dispute.

Why No Spotify?

Let's rewind to earlier this year when Massive Attack revealed they asked their label to remove their music from Spotify. The reason? CEO Daniel Ek’s reported €600 million investment into a Munich-based company specializing in military drones and AI technology.

In a powerful statement, Massive Attack expressed their moral stance:

“The economic burden that has long been placed on artists is now compounded by a moral & ethical burden, whereby the hard-earned money of fans & the creative endeavours of musicians ultimately funds lethal, dystopian technologies.”

It’s a bold move that stakes their ethical ground in a turbulent music industry landscape.

This isn’t an isolated case. Other artists like King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, Deerhoof, Wu Lyf, Xiu Xiu, and The Sabres Of Paradise have also taken similar stances, pulling their music from Spotify.

The Music We’ve Been Waiting For

Robert Del Naja mentioned in an interview last year that they had “some new music which we’ve been sitting on for four years,” and the upcoming releases will be through a new label, signaling a fresh start away from past disputes.

He admitted the wait was tough: “I hate sitting on stuff for too long because I’m the first person to get bored of it. I deliberately don’t play it for months so that I can maintain some enthusiasm for it. It’s good – I’m looking forward to it!”

For fans, that’s thrilling news. The idea of a “cache” evokes mystery and excitement—are these tracks experimental? Collaborations? New directions? Whatever it is, the anticipation is palpable.

Staying Connected with Massive Attack

If you want the inside scoop and updates about their 2026 releases and special performances, Massive Attack invites fans to join their official WhatsApp channel for announcements and more.

What’s Next for Spotify and Massive Attack?

Spotify’s CEO Daniel Ek announced he will step down on January 1, 2026, with co-presidents Alex Norström and Gustav Söderström set to take the reins. Whether this leadership change will affect Massive Attack’s stance or the platform’s ethical direction remains to be seen.

Meanwhile, Massive Attack's new label hints at a more independent and controlled path forward, which could herald a new era for their iconic sound.

Festival Highlights and Fan Myths

Alongside the music news, Massive Attack is confirmed to play at Primavera Sound and Primavera Porto in June 2026—perfect opportunities to experience their magic live.

Interestingly, the band also denied rumors about the use of facial recognition technology at their shows, reminding us that they’re always mindful of privacy and fan experience.

FAQ

• What new music is Massive Attack releasing in 2026?
  They plan to release a “cache” of songs created recently, available both physically and digitally on a new label, excluding Spotify.
• Why is Massive Attack boycotting Spotify?
  The band opposes Spotify CEO Daniel Ek’s investment in military drone and AI technology, which they feel conflicts with their ethical values.
• Where can fans get updates about Massive Attack's new releases?
  Fans can join Massive Attack’s official WhatsApp channel for announcements and special performances.
• When was Massive Attack’s last album released?
  Their last full studio album, Heligoland, was released in 2010, with an EP Eutopia coming out in 2020.
• Are Massive Attack performing live in 2026?
  Yes, they will be playing at Primavera Sound and Primavera Porto festivals next June.

If all this talk of new Massive Attack tunes and nostalgia gets you inspired, why not bring some of that vibe home? Shop your favorite album cover poster at our store and keep the music alive on your walls.