Massive Attack Reveals They Turned Down Coachella Due to Festival’s Environmental Issues

Variety - Dec 17th, 2024

Massive Attack declined to perform at the 2025 Coachella Festival due to environmental concerns about the event, which is held in the desert and relies on substantial water resources. The band, which recently resumed performing in the UK after a hiatus, is focusing on sustainable live music practices. They held a climate action event, 'Act 1.5,' in Liverpool to promote eco-friendly concert models. In a conversation with NME, Robert Del Naja criticized Coachella's lack of sustainability. Meanwhile, Mark Donne, a producer for 'Act 1.5,' praised Maggie Baird for her efforts to implement these eco-friendly practices for Billie Eilish's upcoming European tour, including plans for discounted rail travel for concert-goers.

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RATING

7.0

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a detailed account of Massive Attack's decision to decline performing at Coachella due to environmental concerns. It includes perspectives from the band members and mentions related sustainability initiatives. However, the article could benefit from more diverse viewpoints and clearer source attributions.

Accuracy

The article appears factually accurate, stating that Massive Attack declined to perform at Coachella due to environmental concerns. The mention of Coachella's location and the artists headlining in 2025 seems plausible, but a citation for the lineup would enhance verification.

Balance

The article predominantly presents Massive Attack's perspective and does not include responses from Coachella organizers or environmental experts to provide a more balanced view. Including these perspectives would improve fairness.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, though some terms like 'Mental' could be better explained for international readers. It avoids emotive language and presents information logically.

Source quality

The article references an interview with NME, a reputable music journalism outlet. However, it lacks direct links or detailed sourcing for readers to verify the quotes and information independently.

Transparency

While the article discloses the band's environmental motives, it does not clearly indicate any potential conflicts of interest or affiliations. More background on the interview context or relationships could enhance transparency.