Massive Attack and Tom Waits have a new collaboration. “Boots On The Ground,” out today via Play It Again Sam, is Waits’ first original song since 2011. (He last released new music in 2018, a cover of “Bella Ciao” with Marc Ribot.) It’s also Massive Attack’s first song since 2020’s ‘Eutopia’ EP – and their first not to appear on Spotify, following a decision announced last year. Waits’ son Casey contributes additional vocals. “Now who the hell are these federal pricks? / Hiding in the Senate like a bloated-ass tick,” Waits sings. “Air-conditioned fuckstick loafers / Sittin' in a room full of army posters.” He says the song was recorded years ago but remains perpetually relevant. “Boots On The Ground” arrives with a video featuring photography by @thefinaleye documenting the state of America today, alongside statistics on ICE, protest crackdowns, and veteran homelessness. The single will also be released on eco-friendly 12" vinyl with a spoken word B-side, “The Fly.” All vinyl profits will be donated to the American Civil Liberties Union and the US Immigrant Defense Project. Earlier this week, Massive Attack’s Robert Del Naja criticized Britain’s treatment of anti-Israel protesters after being among 500 people arrested at a demonstration in London’s Trafalgar Square opposing the ban on Palestine Action. #MassiveAttack #TomWaits #PalestineAction - @stereogum