Recorded in the wake of Richey Edwards’s disappearance, Manic Street Preachers’ fourth album was understandably viewed with initial curiosity verging on the morbid among many. But it became an undeniable smash hit in the UK, fully setting the now-trio on its future course as one of the country’s most successful rock bands. Its sound was recuperative, sometimes mournful and often stirring, with bassist Nicky Wire’s lyrics featured on most of its singles, including the truly anthemic “A Design For Life,” “Australia” and the emotional title track.