The Ultra Vivid Lament cover

The Ultra Vivid Lament

Manic Street Preachers · 2021

52 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock

A contemplative blend of orchestral arrangements and introspective lyrics that evoke a sense of wistfulness and reflection.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wistful reflections on life
  • steady pacing for contemplation
  • introspective moments of solitude
  • consistent flow through emotions
  • thoughtful listening over quiet evenings

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking high-energy excitement
  • prefer standalone catchy singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality and relevance after a lengthy career.
Themes
Orwellian surveillance· personal loss· post-pandemic reflection
Career context
Released on January 1, 2021, 'The Ultra Vivid Lament' is the eleventh studio album by Manic Street Preachers. This album arrives after a hiatus following their previous release, 'Resistance Is Futile' in 2018, showcasing the band's continued evolution in sound and lyrical depth as they explore themes of loss and identity.
Stylistic neighbors
The Verve· Oasis· Radiohead
If this clicks, go next to
Sleep Next to Plastic — Continues the introspective themes with a fresh sonic approach.
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Sleep Well Beast by The National — Both albums feature orchestral elements and introspective themes of vulnerability and existential reflection.
Giants of All Sizes by Elbow — Shares a contemplative atmosphere with lush arrangements, exploring themes of loss and human connection.
Carrie & Lowell by Sufjan Stevens — Equally introspective with a blend of orchestral sounds and personal lyrics about grief and identity.

Tracklist

New here? Start with "Still Snowing in Sapporo".

  • 1 Still Snowing in Sapporo Start here 6:09
  • 2 Orwellian 3:49
  • 3 The Secret He Had Missed 3:39
  • 4 Quest for Ancient Colour 4:08
  • 5 Don’t Let the Night Divide Us 3:42
  • 6 Diapause 4:59
  • 7 Complicated Illusions 3:23
  • 8 Into the Waves of Love 3:10
  • 9 Blank Diary Entry 4:38
  • 10 Happy Bored Alone 3:09
  • 11 Afterending 3:53
  • 12 My Drowning World 3:37
  • 13 These Dark Roads 3:54

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata