Massive Attack's Fuji Rock Show Sparks Political Protest

British band Massive Attack headlined the final day of Japan’s Fuji Rock Festival 2026, using the stage to deliver a series of political messages. Their performance featured on‑screen footage of the Gaza conflict, visuals of U.S. surveillance firm Palantir, and a portrait of former U.S. President Donald Trump, accompanied by Japanese subtitles. The band also incorporated a live cover of Avicii’s “Levels,” drawing strong reactions from the audience.

The show was part of the group’s broader “No Music For Genocide” campaign, which protests the use of music to support or ignore war crimes. By highlighting Palantir’s role in surveillance and linking it to military operations, the performance intensified criticism of data‑driven warfare. Audience members reported a mix of admiration for the musical set and shock at the overt political content, while fans noted the band’s unusually friendly demeanor backstage.