Manic Street Preachers - Journal For Plague Lovers

Mummy, what’s a Sex Pistol?

Since the disappearance of founder member Richey Edwards in 1995, Manic Street Preachers have tasted the commercial success that had, until then, eluded them. With 1996’s Everything Must Go, they made radio-friendly anthems, finding a mass audience. Recently, however, they’ve revisited the sound of earlier, edgier releases, chiefly Edwards’ final contribution, The Holy Bible.

JFPL goes one step further, actually using words Edwards left behind. What may have been a risky move smacking of desperation has instead catalysed some of the band’s most exciting music in years. Political theory bristles against low-brow culture, intensely personal thoughts are handled not with adolescent self-pity, but tenderness; characteristic sloganeering is flecked with an often-overlooked sense of humour. James Dean Bradfield deserves special praise for grappling with obtuse lyrics, turning many into surprisingly immediate pop songs.

The closing Williams’ Last Words is one of the strangest, most moving songs the band have recorded, featuring a lyric that amounts to a goodbye note and a touching, shaky Nicky Wire vocal. It’s a fitting end to the record, as if the Manics have made peace with their turbulent past. Typical, then, that a secret track comes raging along, startling the listener into remembering that this unique, dignified and often ridiculous band refuse to go quietly.

4 stars 4 stars 4 stars 4 stars

Columbia | 88697520592

Reviewed by Jamie Atkins
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