Manic Street Preachers Continue Their Legacy With Latest Release

Welsh rock band Manic Street Preachers have delivered their new album titled 'Critical Thinking'. The twelve songs released are driven by powerful emotion over a relatively upbeat sound, making a pleasant 41 minutes for listeners. 

Since its conception in 1986, the band has shown its capabilities as a versatile rock group. They've demonstrated an understanding of a vast soundscape from punk, alternative rock and glam. This album only furthers proof that they still are able to experiment with their sound and push the boundaries, an admirable feat since the tragic disappearance of member Richey Edwards back in 1995.

The opening track, which is titled after the album, is instantly a catchy song through its repetitive lyrics and strong bassline. As usual for the Manics, it discusses the political landscape of society today. The chorus repeats the line "What happened to your critical thinking?", making the mantra behind the track as clear as possible. There's an element of synth and new wave throughout the track 'Critical Thinking' which lends itself to the strong message feeling somewhat starker and clearer.

The following track, 'Brushstrokes of Reunion', is reminiscent of the prog rock and psychedelic elements drawn on by current artists such as Ghost. There's an element of nostalgia present which feels melancholy over a cheerful rhythm. It pulls from a variety of influences, all of which are fundamentally based on creating well-crafted rock. 

'People Ruin Paintings' comes further into the album, with a slower tempo and softer sound. It draws on a sound that could be described as modern, British indie. There's still a focus on guitar solos and impactful drumming whilst feeling fresh and modern in its production. This track is a great example of the band demonstrating their ability to adapt and evolve with the ever-changing landscape of popular music. 

Throughout the record, frontman James Dean Bradfield delivers powerful and thought-provoking emotions which are only amplified by backing vocals in the track 'Hiding in Plain Sight'. Having a slower and more thought-provoking sound placed in the middle of the release is perfect for moving along a narrative that can be built by listening to the album back to back.

Finally, 'OneManMilitia' rounds off the release. Bassist Nicky Wire keeps the song moving with expertise that compliments the strong percussion nicely. This song works great as a closing track, especially in comparison to the opener. There's a similar new-wave essence as well as lyrics that deliver a very clear message to the fans. With the opening line being "I don't know what I am for but I know what I am against", the track is quintessentially what makes Manic Street Preachers the iconic band they are.

The Manics have been able to provide their listeners with the core tropes they expect from them whilst also keeping the sound fresh and experimental. Fans of a myriad of genres and sounds will be able to pull something out of this record that they can enjoy and relate to. 

Each track is able to stand out as its own song yet when combined as an album, they are coherent with one another and create an interesting listen. There's still time to catch the band live with upcoming tour dates found on their site. 

 

Emily Teague

@easter.everywhere

Image: 'Critical Thinking' Official Album Cover

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