Charming from the first song, the band haven’t lost their touch. Rewind The Film is an exhibition of the pop sensibilities that made them stars in the first place.
It lacks electric guitars, but for good reason: the band made two records – this that shows off their acoustic capabilities, and the other more new-wave – the later of which will be released next year.
The Manics, as they’re known, have been kicking it since the early ’90s; their vivacious lyrics and the soothing vocals of frontman James Bradfield always providing character and flair.
Opening track ‘This Sullen Welsh Heart’ is a bittersweet ballad; opening with the line “I don’t want my children to grow up like me” hitting hard before making a slow progression into a gentle acoustic track with angelic female back-up vocals.
‘Show Me The Wonder’, lives up to its name. Gorgeous brass sections compliment Bradfield unbelievably well – a ‘wonder’, you could say.
‘Builder Of Routines’ begins like something you’d hear opening a Tim Burton film, before transforming into a nice little slice of Britpop.
‘(I Miss The) Tokyo Skyline’ starts off just like that synth interlude in ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ by The Who – leaving you expecting a drum solo from Keith Moon and a screaming Roger Daltrey to follow.
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Instead, the rock gods you imagine are exchanged for Bradfield’s charm, turning the tune into a very interesting tune with a fantastic oriental vibe.
An underrated band, undoubtedly, Manic Street Preachers have hit back with a pop gem – setting you in store for 2014’s Futurology.
