On September 15, 2003 "Muse" released their third album "Absolution".
This album marked a significant evolution for "Muse", both musically and thematically, propelling the band into global stardom. In this album, "Muse" continues the musical line that started on "Origin of Symmetry", pushing farther away from any comparisons to "Radiohead". If there were still any doubts about the musical path "Muse" are perusing after "Origin of Symmetry", then "Absolution" cleared all leftovers of the old "Muse", so ther will be no resemblens to songs like "Uninvited", "Muscle Museum" and "Plug-In Baby". More than that, "Muse" even ended their relations with producer John Leckie who produced "Radiohead's" "The Bends" album and worked with them on the two previous albums.
The album sees the trio embracing a darker, more theatrical sound, heavily influenced by apocalyptic themes. As for the musical style, the classical and progressive influences are very noticeable, with fusion of genres that had already set "Muse" apart from their peers. Starting with the album's "Intro" and the dramatic thunderous piano-driven anthem opening of "Apocalypse Please" that feels like the soundtrack to the end of the world, through the "Interlude" designed to give the album an epic story stracture, and to the classical influences, with orchestra on tracks such as "Butterflies and Hurricanes" and "Blackout", it is very clear that "Muse" has gone a long way since "Showbiz".
“Time Is Running Out” follows, easily one of "Muse’s" most infectious tracks. It combines an irresistible groove with dark, suffocating tension, as the ticking-clock metaphor echoes throughout the song. Matt Bellamy’s lyrics hint at political dissatisfaction and the sense of impending doom that permeates the entire album. Chris Wolstenholme’s bassline steals the show here—groovy, sinister, and utterly relentless. Dominic Howard's drumming thunders and rolls. It’s a masterclass in creating tension within a pop structure, and it catapulted Muse into mainstream consciousness worldwide.
In contrast, “Sing for Absolution” takes a step back, offering a more melancholic and reflective tone. It’s a haunting, spacey ballad that floats between ethereal beauty and grounded desperation. The lyrics—"I only dream of you, my beautiful"—feel like a plea for salvation amidst the madness. The sweeping crescendos show off Bellamy’s talent for blending emotion with technical skill, and the song remains one of the most heartfelt moments on the album.
Then comes the explosive “Stockholm Syndrome,” a guitar-heavy monster of a track, layered with rapid-fire riffs and a pounding rhythm section with powerful drumming by Dominic Howard. This is where the band’s love of controlled chaos shines brightest. The soaring falsetto vocals juxtaposed against crushing guitar riffs give it an intense, almost schizophrenic energy. "Muse’s" flirtation with metal shines through here, and the result is an electrifying burst of sound that captures their signature blend of fury and finesse.
After the short instrumental "Interlude", which makes a sort of buffer between the first and the second part of the album, the variety continues with “Hysteria,” a hard-hitting "hysterical" track that showcases Wolstenholme’s jaw-dropping basswork. The intense build-up and aggressive delivery make it an absolute live staple, as the bassline zigzags through the track like a high-voltage current. The song’s frantic energy mirrors the lyrical themes of obsession and uncontrollable desire, with Bellamy’s voice soaring to dramatic heights, propelling the song into the stratosphere.
"Blackout" is a poignant counterbalance to the album's heavier moments, with its waltz-like rhythm and string arrangements, offering a rare, delicate pause in the storm. It’s haunting and melancholic, with Bellamy’s vocals drenched in yearning as he muses on time and mortality. The orchestral swell in the background makes it feel both intimate and grand at the same time.
Perhaps the album’s most ambitious piece is “Butterflies and Hurricanes,” where "Muse" fully unleash their classical influence. This track hints at what the band will further persue on "The Resistance". With its cinematic piano interlude and orchestral backdrop, the track evolves from a delicate intro into an epic call to arms. Bellamy’s impassioned plea to "change everything you are" encapsulates the album’s central message: amidst the chaos and destruction, there is always the possibility of rebirth. It’s a true show-stopper that highlights the band's remarkable musicianship.
“Thoughts of a Dying Atheist” brings the tempo back up, driving forward with urgency and angst. The quick pace and sharp guitar riff make it one of the more accessible rock tracks on the album, yet the lyrical themes—doubt, fear, existential crisis—dig deep into the album’s darker undercurrents. There’s a real sense of grappling with one’s place in the universe, a theme that defines "Absolution" as a whole.
Finally, the album closes with “Ruled by Secrecy,” a slow-burning track that gradually builds into a crushing finale. It encapsulates the weighty themes of control and conspiracy that run throughout the album. The quiet, brooding piano leaves the listener in a state of awe and reflection. It’s the perfect ending to an album that is as much about personal revelation as it is about global destruction.
Overall, "Absolution" stands as a monumental achievement in "Muse’s" career. It’s an audacious blend of classical influences, hard rock, progressive rock, and electronic experimentation, all underscored by the band’s signature apocalyptic flair. Bellamy’s distinctive vocals, Wolstenholme’s intricate basslines, and Dominic Howard’s relentless drumming combine to create a sound that is as massive as it is intricate. Rich Costey’s production allows each track to shine in its own right while maintaining the album’s cohesiveness.
For Listening: Spotify, Apple Music
Comments