Manic Street Preachers @Metropolis Fremantle,(22/11/10)

Fri 26th Nov, 2010 in Gig Reviews

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The Manic Street Preachers have been on the music radar since 1986 with a career comprising of ten albums, successfully incorporating glam punk imagery into alternative rock music, singing about controversial issues, a tragic disappearance of their rhythm guitarist, winning Brit awards and NME’s, collaborations with top artists, and this year a release of a new studio album Postcards from a Young Man. The body of work that the band have created over the past 24 years was reflected in the audience at Metros Fremantle, as people who have been influenced by various albums along the way came together to witness the authority given by the Manic Street Preachers, and most proudly wearing the Welsh flag.

Supporting the headlining act were local group Emperors. They introduced a good level of anticipation for what was to come. Their music weighed on the side of classic rock and their influence by legendary rock bands was clear. Their wild sounding combination of vocals and heavy instruments was softened with the inclusion of Zoe James’ vocals, making their music more understandable and relatable. The tight drumming kept the rhythm together and often subtly busted out some impressive progressions. The band’s transitions between songs were smooth and almost unnoticeable creating a great flow through their music.

The crowd grew restless waiting for the Manic Street Preachers, and when James Dean Bradfield, Nicky Wire and Sean Moore walked onto stage the crowd really showed their passion and adoration for the Welsh trio. Having 24 years worth of music to choose from, assembling the set list couldn’t have been easy, but the band mixed in popular favourites, with old classics and new releases. The crowd went insane when You Stole the Sun From My Heart, and If you Tolerate This Then Your Children Will be Next were played.

The issues that the band have written about in their songs such as culture differences, alienation, boredom, and despair have always been relatable to listeners, but what is unexpected is how songs they wrote 15 years ago are still relevant today. This demonstrates that they write about subjects that mean something significant, and they think about problems facing people everyday and how it affects them. Witnessing the band’s level of awareness makes it easy to see how they are still able to keep creating records, touring, and have such a large fan base.

The Manic Street Preachers had a massive amount of energy, throughout the entire set they filled the stage with their presence and from beginning to end were jumping around stage and providing life to their music. The high- end quality of their sound was incredible and undeniable, they were consistent and even though they have a vibe of professionalism from such a long time of playing music, they still have this raw edge that creates a characteristic appeal.

They ended with Design For Life, which had the entire audience dancing, jumping, singing, and raising their hands reaching out to the band. The Manic Street Preachers clearly have a lot to say and present it powerfully. They clearly have more to give and they are headed back to the recording studio in 2011.

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