MANIC STREET PREACHERS ‘Lifeblood’ 20TH Anniversary Edition - Transparent Red Vinyl

Manic Street Preachers are set to release a 20th Anniversary Edition of their seventh studio album 'Lifeblood' on April 12, 2024, through Sony Records. This edition includes remastered tracks, b-sides, demos, outtakes, new liner notes by John Harris, and previously unseen pictures by Mitch Ikeda. The release will be available on double colored vinyl, feature two new remixes of the lead track '1985' by Steven Wilson (Porcupine Tree) and Welsh artist Gwenno.

Described by Nicky Wire as "our most estranged album of all," 'Lifeblood' reflects the band's contemplation of their identity and aspirations. Drawing inspiration from the music they enjoyed in their youth, the album echoes influences like New Order, Prefab Sprout, Thomas Dolby, early Simple Minds, and the cerebral electronic pop of the early-to-mid 1980s. The lyrical themes delve into subjects like death, solitude, ghosts, and being haunted by history and one's own past.

The recording process began in Cardiff before moving to New York to collaborate with legendary producer Tony Visconti. They then worked with Greg Haver in Ireland, followed by finishing touches from mix engineer Tom Elmhirst, who added a lustrous sheen and sparkle to the songs.

Despite some uncertainty about the first single, 'The Love of Richard Nixon,' which entered the UK charts at No. 2, and the subsequent single 'Empty Souls,' the album received positive reviews. Mojo Magazine described it as "An album that nails its subtle-but-tenacious hooks with dignity and maturity." The release was followed by a successful arena tour, capping off a significant chapter in the band's career.