From the moment Shara Nelson’s spine-chilling voice entered ‘Safe From Harm’ on the first Massive Attack album her place as one of the most soulful, distinctive singers of modern times was cemented. But her output has been sparse, sometimes ill-placed, while lesser talents shovel them out regularly with the big push. ‘Unfinished Symphony’ showed that Shara is at her best when pouring her soul into conveying hurt and shattered emotions. Her singing on this touching hallucinogenic ballad reaches inside and pins you against the wall, haunting melodies and broken inflections enforcing a rare emotional plateau. That’s the original but the one doing damage in the clubs, causing DJs like Laurent Garnier to call it ‘one of the best things I’ve heard for ages’ is Charles Webster’s subtle house mix which goes deeper than deep. For immediate dancefloor impact Redanka’s ’93 Vocal Mix invokes the spirit of early 90s progressive house before cheese set in, all soaring strings and pumping under-carriage accentuating the deadly vocal melody. The song is so strong it fits any treatment, as proved by Neon Heights’ acoustic chillout version. Absolute quality all round.
5 Out Of 5
Reviewed By: Kris Needs
