The most righteous band in Wales have converted millions to their cause - the problem now is what to do with all these new disciples. The solution? Put fire on the triple video-screen backdrop, and brimstone in James Dean Bradfield's voice. Oh, and stick some footage of Richey Edwards onscreen, just to wear the scars and show the young fans where the Manics came from.
The Manics' move from side-show indie band to stadium giant has not been a simple ascent, and their concert at Dublin's Point Theatre last night showed that the mantle still sits awkwardly on their shoulders. You Stole The Sun From My Heart opened with all guns blazing, while PCP kept things nice 'n' edgy. Tsunami sent waves of ecstasy over the crowd, priming them nicely for the r&b thrust of La Tristessa Durera.
While the fans had no problem responding to the familiar hooks of Everything Must Go and Kevin Carter, they seemed a bit nonplussed by new song Yes, somewhat confused by Prologue To History and completely confounded by Motown Junk. By the final chorus of Motorcycle Emptiness, however, the band had won back the crowd's undying attention, giving Bradfield a breathing space to toss in a couple of acoustic tunes.
When the band returned to the stage for Australia and You Love Us, bassist Nicky Wire was dolled up in glittering cape and crown, which nicely underlined the Manics' plight as this year's role models in pop's big beauty pageant. As they ended with their two biggest hits, If You Tolerate This Your Children Will Be Next and A Design For Life, you couldn't help wondering if the Manic Street Preachers have redesigned themselves into a stadium-sized corner.
