Their albums 'The Holy Bible', 'Everything Must Go' and 'Journal for Plague Lovers' received widespread critical acclaim, with 'The Holy Bible' frequently ranked in polls as one of the greatest ever made. Rolling Stone and Spin Magazine are far too lazy and corporate to look at anything outside the US until it's on the shelves of Best Buy. Given their diverse history, chances are there's something in their canon that you'd respect.

The music is heavily informed by literature, history, political theory (particularly socialist) and art movements. While I disagree with Wire's comments, it's patently obvious that he's aware of the difference between art and commerce, and (shock) understands that these aren't always incongruous. Beethhoven wrote very good music for money.

Wire has a history of making inflammatory statements, sometimes as a joke, sometimes for publicity and sometimes because he's not afraid to express his (often unpopular) opinions. As the author of the article says, it's clear he's doing so with civility in this case. If you're going to attack the Manic Street Preachers for their comments, fine. But do a little research before you label them as 'mildly popular' or 'hacks'.

oh and i second the “who the fuck are these douchebags” comment. my store is the best place to buy CDs for about 10 miles. when we dont have something no one wants to go elsewhere because its too far for them. so when *I* dont know about them they arent popular enough to give a rats ass about.