The Manic Street Preachers, a true pillar in the music world, have crafted anthems that resonate through generations, their influence particularly profound in the 1990s. Faced with the challenging task of selecting a setlist from their vast collection of fifteen albums, particularly with a new record seeking attention, the Welsh trio, performing the second night of their residency at Manchester’s O2 Apollo, showcased an impressive mastery of their catalogue. The venue, rich in history like the Manics themselves, serves as a fitting backdrop for what lies ahead.
Emerging onto the stage to the pulses of a “Critical Thinking” remix, the band launched straight into their latest set with an irresistible energy. Opening track, “Decline & Fall,” served as a vigorous salutation, heralding an exhilarating array of tracks from their new album. Bassist Nicky Wire took the spotlight with a raw and impassioned rendition of the eponymous track, transforming it into a rallying cry for a society too often ensnared in clichéd narratives, urging listeners to awaken to the vivid reality surrounding them. Another poignant highlight from the band’s latest collection came with “Dear Stephen,” an intimate tribute to the iconic Morrissey, the song subtly intertwining lyrical remnants from The Smiths’ “I Know It’s Over” and “Still Ill,” conjuring a deep sense of nostalgia and the comforting embrace of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The set unfurled as a compelling diachronic journey through the Manics’ storied history, each song chosen with care to reflect their evolution. “Motorcycle Emptiness,” a track whose emotional resonance has endured impressively over the decades, ignited a fervent sing-along among the audience, their voices intertwining with a sense of collective nostalgia. “A Design For Life” was then dedicated to the late Mike Peters, transforming the atmosphere into one of solemn tribute, enriching the performance with a profound sense of connection and honour.
James Dean Bradfield apologises to the crowd for missing lyrics, explaining that he was coming down with a virus, before delivering a spectacular solo mid-section, bookended by “This Sullen Welsh Heart” and “This Is Yesterday,” the latter being one of two tracks from The Holy Bible to feature on Saturday’s setlist. The other, “She Is Suffering,” is prefaced with a wry acknowledgement of the novel arrangement, as the band performs the track as a three-piece, along with a heartfelt nod to the band’s lyricist, Richey Edwards, whose intellectual ferocity and artistic vision continue to permeate their music and define their enduring legacy.
The “This Is My Truth Tell Me Yours” era was powerfully showcased by “You Stole The Sun From My Heart” and “The Everlasting,” which evolved from a solo performance by James Dean Bradfield into a full-band masterpiece. As the evening concluded, Bradfield delivered a heartfelt speech about his love for Manchester’s musicians and crowds, setting the stage for the tour debut of “You Love Us.” This high-energy anthem resonated with the audience, seamlessly leading into the climactic closer, “If You Tolerate This Your Children Will Be Next.” The performance left the Manchester crowd euphoric, highlighting the Manic Street Preachers’ remarkable ability to connect with their fans through their extensive and influential catalogue.
