| | | | 
From the first seconds in you realise this is no ordinary, forgettable band, quite the contrary … is this a soundtrack for an epic fantasy/space movie?!
“Take a Bow” is the grand opening act to the English rock trio’s fourth album “Black Holes and Revelations” and if the title wasn’t a giveaway; instantaneously invokes a space age and futuristic feel. Transitioning into second track “Starlight” the record picks up speed with its infectious rhythm accompanied by Matthew Bellamy’s soft high range vocals and is certain to transport you on Bellamy’s starlight space journey. Then it only gets better with the funky single “Supermassive Black Hole” which has an instant dance-worthy groove and features Bellamy’s falsetto and bassist Chris Wolstenholme not only provides a huge buzzy synth bass but also backup vocals.
Muse’s sound is hard to pinpoint beyond the rock genre and their innovative, creative nature needs to be experienced as it ranges from earth shattering loud synth basses, inventive drumming, haunting pianos and other futuristic sounds creating a larger-than-life feel. Mysterious lyrics regarding mind control and hypnotization are also featured on songs such as “Exo Politics.” Breaking from the grand feel “Soldiers Poem” is stylistically the most different off the record and maintains a sweet, slow and mournful old feel.
Now how do you end such a grandiose album as “Black Holes and Revelations?” With “Knights of Cydonia” of course! This song clocks in at just over six minutes and encompasses the upbeat feel and extravagance of the whole record and comes complete with sounds of galloping horses and laser beams! It also features lyrics not only referencing biblical terms but also the Martian area of Cydonia (explaining the cover art).
Not only are the lyrics on this album mysterious but also the CD insert booklet contains an intriguing picture requiring a mirror to decipher the photographed documents, which reveal letters of declassified CIA mind control experiments from the 1950s!
Also included in this special tour edition is a bonus DVD featuring some great live performances from Paris, London and the MTV Awards in Copenhagen giving you a tantalising taste of Muse’s live presence. The DVD also includes the three singles (“Supermassive Black Hole,” “Starlight” and “Knights of Cydonia”) music videos showcasing that Muse’s artistic creativity also extends into the visual form.
Having only recently gained awareness of Muse’s immense popularity – and now having listened to them - I’m surprised at how well received (rightfully) they are especially since their sound deviates so very far from the norm. I guess it shows that innovation and artistic self expression still appeals to everyone! “Black Holes and Revelations” is more than worthy of a listen!
Interview by Marion N |
| Send
this article to a friend | |
|
