Four years on from their last release, the Manics new album “Resistance is Futile” is now available. There has been much speculation as to whether it would ever see the light of day, with the band seemingly drained regarding creativity.

Things were further complicated by having to find a new recording studio, with their former hang-out being demolished to make way for apartments. The move from the city centre of Cardiff to the heart of the countryside appears to have led to a new lease of life, with the 12 new tracks surging with melodic power.

The material reflects the cultural and economic changes since their last album, not forgetting their attachment to art, people and politics, constantly providing a deeper meaning to their lyrics. Lead vocalist James Dean Bradfield describes the variety on the album: “So there are positive songs, songs that are confused and songs that ask for people to reconcile their petty hatred.”

Now seen as veterans of the music scene, with the band members approaching their 50th birthdays, they still harbour an ambition to be number one in the charts, something they haven’t done since 1998.To support the album’s release, the Manic Street Preachers have announced a UK arena tour and a selection of summer festival dates.

James Bradfield reveals “We’ve rehearsed seven songs off the new album and dusted off six or seven songs we haven’t played in more than 15 years. We’ve rehearsed one song we’ve never played live at all as well.”

The tour starts in Newcastle on April 23, moving on to Glasgow and Birmingham, with festival goers able to hear the new songs at the Isle of Wight event in June.