Manic Street Preachers Kick Off “Critical Thinking” Tour: Setlist and Highlights

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. A Look at the Latest Album
4. The Tour Launch: Setlist Breakdown
5. Historical Context: The Evolution of Manic Street Preachers
6. Impact of Lineup Changes
7. Future Directions
8. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Manic Street Preachers launched their UK "Critical Thinking" tour on April 11, 2025, at Glasgow's Barrowland Ballroom, marking a significant return for the famed band.
• The tour features songs from their latest album, including new tracks as well as classic favorites, and will run through May 2025, making stops in several major UK cities.
• Notable lineup changes were introduced with Dave Eringa stepping in for longtime keyboardist Nick Nasmyth.
• The first performance highlighted the band's ongoing evolution and engagement with their extensive fan base, demonstrating their resilience in the fast-evolving music landscape.

Introduction

In a world where music often reflects the intersection of artistry and commentary, the Manic Street Preachers are set to validate their iconic status with the launch of their "Critical Thinking" tour in April 2025. Kicking off at Glasgow's historic Barrowland Ballroom, the first performance on April 11 immediately captured the essence of a band that has transcended generational divides. Known for their provocative lyrics and eclectic sound, the band took to the stage at an iconic venue renowned for its intimate atmosphere, setting the stage for an unforgettable series of performances. Fans experienced a musical journey that traversed their expansive catalog while showcasing new work that continues to push boundaries.

A Look at the Latest Album

"Critical Thinking," their twelfth studio album, serves as the tour's artistic backbone. Released in 2024, the album has been praised for its modern resonance and rich lyrical content that reflects the complexities of today’s societal issues. Critics have heralded it as a work infused with both exuberance and introspection, capturing the essence of the band's historical roots while firmly planting them in contemporary conversations.

Nicky Wire, the band's bassist and lyricist, described “Critical Thinking” as a reflection of the band’s current mindset, merging personal honesty with broader societal themes. The album draws on a diverse sonic palette—from the soulful echoes of ABBA's pop brilliance to the driving rhythms characteristic of their 2014 works, which engaged in modernist exploration. The blend of styles underscores the band's commitment to innovation while remaining relatable to their devoted listeners.

The Tour Launch: Setlist Breakdown

Opening night featured a thoughtfully curated setlist that walked a fine line between their new material and beloved classics. The band opened with “Decline and Fall,” a track from "Critical Thinking," signaling a confident move towards introducing fresh content.

Full Setlist:

1. Decline & Fall
2. Enola/Alone
3. La tristesse durera (Scream to a Sigh)
4. Brushstrokes of Reunion
5. You Stole the Sun From My Heart
6. She Is Suffering
7. Peeled Apples
8. Motorcycle Emptiness
9. Walk Me to the Bridge
10. Hiding in Plain Sight
11. Autumnsong
12. A Design for Life
13. This Sullen Welsh Heart (Acoustic)
14. Small Black Flowers That Grow in the Sky (Acoustic)
15. The Everlasting
16. Dear Stephen
17. Sleepflower
18. Your Love Alone Is Not Enough
19. International Blue
20. People Ruin Paintings
21. Motown Junk
22. If You Tolerate This Your Children Will Be Next

The setlist’s diversity highlighted the band’s commitment to not only celebrating their past but also welcoming fans into the newest chapters of their artistic journey.

Historical Context: The Evolution of Manic Street Preachers

Since their formation in 1986, the Manic Street Preachers have become synonymous with the evolution of Britpop and rock music. Their early songs addressed political issues, existentialism, and a deep yearning for connection in an often fragmented society. Throughout the years, the band has seen various transformations—from the disappearance of lyricist and guitarist Richey Edwards in 1995 to a shift in style evident as their music matured. The continued relevance and evolution of their music speak to the band’s dynamic relationship with their audience.

Their engagement with pressing socio-political topics has never waned. Even in "Critical Thinking," the band tackles themes of identity, community, and the crumbling ideologies of modern sociopolitical discourse. As musicians who have crafted their legacy from the ashes of societal turmoil and personal narrative, their work today emphasizes a new generation's struggles and aspirations, mirroring their original ethos with an updated lens.

Impact of Lineup Changes

A notable change headed into the "Critical Thinking" tour was the absence of longtime keyboardist Nick Nasmyth, who was replaced by their producer and close associate Dave Eringa. Historically, Eringa has played a pivotal role in the band's sound, contributing to key albums and live performances since their inception. His presence in the current lineup underscores a blend of familiarity and freshness that could inject new energy into the band’s live shows. Fans have expressed a mix of sentiments regarding this change, concerned about continuity yet excited about the potential for rejuvenation Eringa might bring.

Fan Reactions

Fans attending the Glasgow show expressed excitement and nostalgia, recalling the band’s earlier performances while eagerly anticipating the new material. Social media platforms buzzed with remarks praising the energy of the new songs as well as applause for the reimagining of the band's previous hits. The crowd's unwavering enthusiasm exemplified the enduring connection the band has cultivated over decades.

Future Directions

Looking ahead, the “Critical Thinking” tour is poised to stretch across several cities in the UK, including key stops in London, Wolverhampton, and Manchester. Each show not only offers a chance to witness a dynamic live performance but also serves as a commentary on the evolving landscape of music and society. The band continues to explore what’s next for them, with discussions hinting at a potential new sound and lyrical direction in future endeavors.

Upcoming Dates

• April 12: Glasgow Barrowland (Second Night)
• April 18-19: London O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire
• April 25: Wolverhampton, Civic at the Halls
• April 26: Bristol, Beacon
• May 2-3: Manchester O2 Apollo
• May 9-10: Swansea Arena

The tour culminates not just in a series of performances but in a shared communal experience with fans who have followed their stories for decades.

FAQ

What is the "Critical Thinking" tour?

The "Critical Thinking" tour is the latest tour by the Manic Street Preachers, promoting their album of the same name, featuring a mix of new material and classic hits.

What venues will the tour visit?

The tour will stop in various cities across the UK including Glasgow, London, Wolverhampton, Bristol, Manchester, and Swansea, among others.

Why is Nick Nasmyth not performing in this tour?

Nick Nasmyth will not join the tour due to personal circumstances. Dave Eringa, the band's producer, has stepped in as a replacement.

How has the album "Critical Thinking" been received?

The album has received positive reviews for its exploration of contemporary themes while maintaining the band's signature sound and lyrical depth.

What songs can we expect in the setlist?

Expect a blend of both new tracks from the "Critical Thinking" album and fan favorite classics from previous albums, such as "If You Tolerate This Your Children Will Be Next" and "Motorcycle Emptiness."

The Manic Street Preachers continue to not only evolve as artists but also reflect the world around them, ensuring their music remains both compelling and relevant to new generations of listeners.