ABSOLUTION

With this album Muse firmly establish themselves as major players in the music industry, and confirm what their fans knew, that they have the talent and the drive to be around for years to come. The 20 second intro leads into the piano pounding, opening of 'Apocalypse Please'. This track is amazing live and even in its studio form it has an energy and presence which makes it hard to believe that we are listening to a three- piece. Mathhew Bellamy on guitar, piano and vocals breathes life into this track and gives himself to the song totally. 'Time is Running Out' follows and is a builder, it has a Heep-like thread near the beginning (Heep fans might recognise it) but this is not to suggest they have obvious influences - their sound is uniquely their own and would be difficult to copy. 'Song for Absolution' comes next and is quite superb. It is probably the best song on the album and features heart-felt vocals and tight playing - the video accompanying this song is outstanding and you are advised to see it if you can. 'Hysteria' will probably be known to most people due to its MTV-airplay and it is another well-written powerful song. It cannot be over-emphasized that this band has a BIG sound which belies the fact that we only have three players - ELP and Rush have had similar comments in the past and Muse now join them, in more ways than one. A welcome addition to the Prog Archives. This album has many other highlights, including 'Butterflies and Hurricanes' and 'Thoughts of a Dying Atheist' and will surely feature on many prog fans playlists.