Skip to main content

Live music: Manic Street Preachers

Manics demonstrate why they're still 4 REAL

Manic Street Preachers

Shepherd's Bush Empire, London W12

4 Stars

Many thought the Manic Street Preachers  were history following their career-spanning set at London's O2 arena in 2011.

But the thing with anarchist punks is they just don't know when they're done and, if this show's anything to go by, it's clear there are many miles left for them to travel.

Their new album Rewind The Film is a stripped-back affair with duets, acoustic guitars and trumpets and this gig was a real test of their ability to hook fans into their new material without losing them to bar or bog.

They open with Motorcycle Emptiness and an adrenaline rush akin to a last-minute winner in the FA cup final kicks in.

Then Richard Hawley, whose ability to warm hearts and silence a room is unrivalled, joins them on Rewind The Film and the crowd stare in awe. Meanwhile 30 Year War, with its references to "Old Etonian scum," is sung in unison, a perfect end to a day that witnessed Ed Miliband finally say: "C'mon have a go if you think you're hard enough."

Frontman Nicky Wire remains the epitome of cool - no-one pulls off a pink suit and aviators like he does - and it's hard not to overlook James Dean Bradfield either. Amazing quiff, great energy, immense guitar playing and a voice sent from the Soul perfection factory.

When Hawley reappears onstage to thrash out Revol with him, Bradfield (pictured) comes across as nothing short of insatiable.

There is still something incredibly romantic about the Manics. They resonate with everyone at the gig because even after 24 years they, in the immortal words incised on former guitarist Richey Edwards's body, are still "4 REAL."

Mike Adams

OWNED BY OUR READERS

We're a reader-owned co-operative, which means you can become part of the paper too by buying shares in the People’s Press Printing Society.

 

 

Become a supporter

Fighting fund

You've Raised:£ 13,288
We need:£ 4,712
3 Days remaining
Donate today