Massive Attack are building their own venue for their reunion concert – this is what it looks like

Can you believe it’s been 21 years since Massive Attack’s legendary album Mezzanine was released, which featured super hits ‘Teardrop’ and ‘Angel’? Yep, neither can we. To mark the occasion, the band will headline two shows in their hometown of Bristol on 1 and 2 March. Where will it be? In their own, purpose-built temporary venue, of course.

The nearly-sold-out anniversary gig will be held at Steel Yard, a custom-built temporary arena with a 14,000 capacity. The arena is located in the former site of Filton Airfield and Massive Attack has had help from YTL Arena Operations for the construction. The venue will be taken down immediately after the shows.  

Images appeared across social media this week showing the progress of the steel structure – you can see some of them below. The structure is similar to the Barn Stage that featured at London's Field Day Festival in 2017. The band has also collaborated with documentary filmmaker Adam Curtis, who will be providing the visuals on both nights.  

If you're wondering why Massive Attack would go to the effort of building their own concert venue, the answer is simple. Originally, the band was meant to play at the iconic Brabazon Hangar, but because of health and safety reasons, the venue wouldn’t permit the band to play. Naturally, building their own temporary venue was the only viable alternative. Bristolians, we think you’re in for one hell of a gig this weekend.

Main image credit: Pacific Press/Getty Images

If you've got a particular interest in pop up venues, these are our favourite temporary structures for spring and summer