Mechanized Misanthropy - Feldgrau

Advantages: it's the manic street preacher's defining musical statement and a blistering assault on the senses
Disadvantages: there is only one track that i don't absolutely love, it's almost the perfect album

...The Manic Street Preachers have been insurrectionary punks, cock rock disciples,pop mavericks, but have always stood out from the rest of the brit rock crowd with their intelligent politicial and personally motivated lyrics. This album is the last to be recorded with now missing guitarist Richey Edwards. His addictions, misanthropy and intelligence is writ large on the Holy Bible. The opening track 'Yes' is a blast of disgust, heavier than iron maiden and more literate than an english professor. Edward's lyrics tackle anorexia, the holocaust,right wing politics and the notions of sexual identity. The Manics always promised they'd never write a love song-and they certainly keep their promise. 'Faster' is the defining moment, a breackneck pace rocker with a riff that is achingly brilliant. The lyrics are incomparable to anything else... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Some of Nirvana's best songs are on here.
Disadvantages: Feels like some killer singles and a lot of filler

...Kurt Cobain's dislike of fame and celebrity sat somewhat uneasily with the success of Nevermind. His suicide, whilst tragic, has led to him being revered as a saint and his music, no matter how good in reality, being likened to the second coming of christ. 'In Utero' is resolutely miserable and world weary. It's comparable to Nine Inch Nail's 'Downward Spiral' and Manic Street Preacher's 'The Holy Bible'. However, whilst the Manics married their misanthropy to political sensibilities, Kurt's lyrics seem petty and whinging. 'You're in a successful rock band adored by millions and have a beautiful child, so snap out of it' is what i'd been tempted to have said to him. 'Rape Me' is a lame attempt at controversy with the riff from 'teen spirit' played backwards. The air of self pity continues through 'serve the servants', 'scentless... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Excellent - Well Crafted
Disadvantages: Too Sentimental In Places

...... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful