Manic Street Preachers are a Welsh rock band formed in Gwent in 1986, known for their politically charged lyrics, energetic performances, and combination of punk rock with alternative and new wave influences. The band achieved major commercial success in the 1990s with albums like 'The Holy Bible' (1994) and 'Everything Must Go' (1998), becoming one of the most influential British bands of their era. They have continued to record and perform extensively since their formation, maintaining their reputation for left-wing activism and socially conscious songwriting.