20 May 1996 Following the disappearance of lyricist/rhythm guitarist Richey Edwards on 1 February 1995, Manic Street Preachers‘ destiny was altered forever. The still-unexplained vanishing left the remaining three members (lead vocalist/guitarist James Dean Bradfield, bassist/backing vocalist Nicky Wire, and drummer Sean Moore) with a dilemma: should they call time on the band due to the loss of their lifelong friend, or attempt to forge a new identity in his absence? The trio held talks with Edwards’ family, and it was quickly agreed upon that they should continue, partly in the hopes that the release of a new record could flush Edwards out of wherever he might be hiding. Following a September 1995 recording session for War Child’s