ABSOLUTION

Absolution expands upon the sounds already established by Origin of Symmetry, the symphonic elements taking a more central role, and the band's sound diversifying to cover the much of the spectrum of heaviness, from soft balladry to hard rock/metal. While Muse showcases a variety of styles, Absolution is unified as it explores many of rock's different sounds.

It all comes together to form a masterpiece. The variety on this album is astounding ? you have a song like Hysteria, an energetic, catchy rock song with a mind-bending bass line, followed directly by Blackout, a slow, emotional track relying strongly on symphonic backing. Blackout's lyrics are precautionary and serious, the solo conveying much feeling in the absence of words. Another stark contrast is between Stockholm Syndrome and Butterflies and Hurricanes. Stockholm Syndrome is among Muse's heaviest songs, and it's absolutely blistering. The chorus is raging and the outro could crush one's skull. Dynamics are used here to great effect. No wonder Dream Theater ripped it off. Butterflies and Hurricanes is a classical-influenced piece, with a piano solo in the middle. The lyrics try to be so inspirational that they border on cheesy. Okay, how are these on the same album? But it works. All of these songs, the four tracks standouts described above, and the others, work together in unison, maybe because the song quality is high all the way through (though near the end there is a slight drop). The lyrics, also, contribute to its cohesiveness ? it's an album that touches on the same topics on more than one song each. It's as if Absolution could have been a concept album if it had been altered more; common themes include religion, the apocalypse/war, governmental problems, and personal issues. On the next release, Black Holes and Revelations, lyrics would begin to come together even more.

Absolution demonstrates what Muse can do as a band and their love for experimentation. This album relies more on symphonic components and a wide range of heaviness, and it still sounds like it belongs together rather than being a mess of songs that don't function as a unit. It's not the most progressive album, but it's definitely worth a listen.