70 songs of self indulgence?

[StarBright]

I've been thinking about the next Manics release in light of recent comments by both James and Nicky and it has got me thinking a lot about the possible directions the band will take next. Personally, I would love for this album to see the light of day but it's very easy for myself to get suckered into a mess of excitement when Nicky mentions the forthcoming Manics release and I am always a little bit dissapointed when the said release sounds nothing like it has been hyped as. I have a strong feeling that the next LP could be as follows:

1: A complete overhaul of the Manics sound. More diverse, more strange, eclectic. KYE MK2.

2: I can't see Nicky Wire writing a complete set of 70 lyrics for the songs. I imagine we'll get a lot of instrumental songs. It is fair to say that Nicky Wire hasn't really been the best lyricist in recent years but there are moments of pure beauty on SATT and PFAYM.

3: Personally, I would love the album to be recorded and released like the recent demos from JFPL and PFAYM. Include all the mistakes, the outtakes, etc. Basically, don't bring in the sheen and polish the songs.

4: The manics should release it in stages. (10 songs a month of 7 months). It'll keep the fanbase itching to hear more . The band could then release a mega boxset of the complete album with extras but charge £20 for it.

5: With James commenting that it'll sound like nothing the band has done before excites me because I tend to believe James more over Nicky.

6: Perhaps all three will contribute lyrically.

7: Nicky will take lead vocals on a lot of those tracks I believe. No bad thing, his voice is quite nice recently.