A court has granted the parents of Richey Edwards an order declaring the Welsh musician and songwriter, who disappeared nearly 14 years ago, presumed dead. Edwards -- who spent time in rehab, where he was treated for alcoholism and anorexia, before he vanished -- is best known as the guitarist and lyricist for the rock group Manic Street Preachers. The performer, whose car was found abandoned by a bridge, is believed to have committed suicide in 1995 when he was 27. The BBC said his parents, Graham and Sherry Edwards, have been granted a court order that he be declared presumed dead, even though his body has not been recovered. Edwards' father declined to comment on the story and the surviving members of the band were traveling and unavailable to comment, the British broadcaster said. This is the parents' choice and the band is happy to go with what the parents decide is best, a spokeswoman for the band told the Mail on Sunday.

By LEIGH GIANGRECO Amid the cliche, carbon-copy, California boy sellouts touting their punk-pop lyrics and emo haircuts, The Manics emerge with a necessary dose of East Coast garage grunge.

By TIM WALKER Pop FOREVER HEAVENLY Royal Festival Hall LONDON **** Like any other hip, sociable teenager turning 18, Heavenly Records decided to celebrate by inviting a few friends out for a party, with some great music and a couple of drinks.

By Robin Turner MANIC Street Preacher frontman James Dean Bradfield has written a new song about the taboo subject of domestic violence against men.

ABERDARE-born actor Ioan Gruffudd has lent his support to Wales' first international film and music festival.