Know Your Enemy
Manic Street Preachers · 2001
73 min · 18 tracks · alternative rock
A defiant blend of alternative rock and political commentary, laced with poignant melodies and sharp lyrics.
Why this album works
- Best for
- thought-provoking lyrical content dynamic emotional journeys reflective listening sessions
- Context
- Released on March 19, 2001, 'Know Your Enemy' is the fifth studio album by Manic Street Preachers, coming after their commercial peak with 'This Is My Truth Tell Me Yours'. At this point, the band was navigating a turbulent phase, marked by the departure of guitarist Richey Edwards and shifting musical influences that sought to balance commercial appeal with artistic depth.
- If you like
- alternative rock
Know Your Enemy is an album by Manic Street Preachers, released in 2001. A defiant blend of alternative rock and political commentary, laced with poignant melodies and sharp lyrics. 'Know Your Enemy' received mixed reviews upon release but solidified the band's commitment to political themes in music. Its lead single, 'So Why So Sad', reached number 18 on the UK Singles Chart, while the album itself peaked at number 2 on the UK Albums Chart, showcasing their enduring presence in British rock despite changing musical landscapes. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Know Your Enemy sound like?
A defiant blend of alternative rock and political commentary, laced with poignant melodies and sharp lyrics. Rooted in alternative rock.
What makes Know Your Enemy by Manic Street Preachers notable?
'Know Your Enemy' received mixed reviews upon release but solidified the band's commitment to political themes in music. Its lead single, 'So Why So Sad', reached number 18 on the UK Singles Chart, while the album itself peaked at number 2 on the UK Albums Chart, showcasing their enduring presence in British rock despite changing musical landscapes. Released on March 19, 2001, 'Know Your Enemy' is the fifth studio album by Manic Street Preachers, coming after their commercial peak with 'This Is My Truth Tell Me Yours'. At this point, the band was navigating a turbulent phase, marked by the departure of guitarist Richey Edwards and shifting musical influences that sought to balance commercial appeal with artistic depth.
Who is Know Your Enemy for?
Know Your Enemy works well if you're into thought-provoking lyrical content, dynamic emotional journeys and reflective listening sessions.
How many songs are on Know Your Enemy?
Know Your Enemy has 18 tracks, running approximately 73 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Found That Soul Standout 3:05
- 2 Ocean Spray Standout 4:11
- 3 Intravenous Agnostic 4:02
- 4 So Why So Sad 4:02
- 5 Let Robeson Sing 3:46
- 6 The Year of Purification 3:39
- 7 Wattsville Blues 4:29
- 8 Miss Europa Disco Dancer 3:52
- 9 Dead Martyrs 3:23
- 10 His Last Painting 3:16
- 11 My Guernica 4:56
- 12 The Convalescent 5:54
- 13 Royal Correspondent 3:31
- 14 Epicentre 6:26
- 15 Baby Elián 3:37
- 16 Freedom of Speech Won't Feed My Children 2:59
- 17 The Masses Against the Classes Standout 3:21
- 18 So Why So Sad (Sean Penn Mix - Avalanches) 4:57
Release Date
March 19, 2001
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Runtime
73 min 35 sec
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