Manic Street Preachers – Futurology

At this stage of their career, almost 30 years in, the Manics could be forgiven for resting on their laurels, producing another take on their classic sound – if not actually succumbing to the twilight world of greatest hits albums and reunion tours. Instead, they’ve reinvented themselves.

While it retains their DNA, Futurology is a fresh and different sound for the Manics, blending their British indie guitar pop with krautrock, post-punk and electronic influences.

Lyrically, they remain committed to clever exploration of social issues while sonically, this is the sound of a reinvigorated, energised band delivering one of the better albums of 2014. (PH)

**** /5