And I have to say, I think it's their best since 'Journal For Plague Lovers'.

'Futurology' got really good reviews, but it didn't really do anything for me. Sounded sort of like Keane. Just boring and 'meh'.

This one though? It's The Manics plagiarising their own back catalogue, and putting a fresh gloss on it, and it works.

E.G.:

International Blue = Happy(er) 'Faster' (Nicky Wire says 'Motorcycle Emptiness', but he's wrong).

'Sequels Of Forgotten Wars' = A 'Know Your Enemy' intro, which then leads into what would basically be a track from 'The Holy Bible' if not for the plonking piano in the background.

'Broken Algorithms' = 'Spectators of Suicide', at least melodically. Nicky Wire said it's reminiscent of 'Sleepflower', but I can't hear that. He's wrong again.

When the single of 'International Blue' was released a few months, I listened to it once, and didn't take to it. But now I think it's one of their best tracks for a long time. Can't get it out of my head, which says something.

There was a lot of talk of them splitting up (as a band) over the last few months. And then they come out with something as good as this.

I don't actually like music that much - let alone the way it's become mixed up with a dangerous cult of celebrity - but I did enjoy this.