ABSOLUTION

Two reasons why I tried spinning this CD of Muse that has been in my son's collection: first, some people did mention that there was some influence of Muse style with Dream Theater "Octavarium" album and second, some prog sites reviewed this album as well. On first reason I think it's good that fans of both bands (Dream Theater and Muse) can introduce one another. Fans of Dream Theater would explore the music of Muse (Like what I do now) and fans of Muse would explore their music boundary to progressive metal scene - Dream Theater's music.

"Absolution" in my opinion is a good album by Muse. Musically, when I listened to this CD for the first time, I could only relate the band's style is in the vein of Radiohead and sometime U2 - even though it's not 100% correct. Look at the composition and singing style - it's quite tending to Radiohead. For me personally, enjoying this CD is like a retreat from having enjoyed other spectrum of prog music like symphonic, art, psychedelic or even krautrock.

Of course I cannot tell you the history of the band and who's who in the band as I'm just a newbie in Muse. But as any other prog band this album starts off with ambient short introduction (22 seconds) followed with "Apocalypse Please" with its floating style music that reminds me to Radiohead. Composition-wise, it's not as complex as symphonic prog music but it's good to comment that the band opens this album with nice song like this one. I enjoy the simple keyboard punch in the middle of the track.This song seems to be a popular track as many FM radios as well as local bands that covers this song. "Time Is Running Out" is another good track which is also popular in my country. I like the guitar fills and singing style.

Preceded by short "Interlude", it's fascinating to enjoy "Hysteria" which has good composition featuring a dragging vocal style - yes, similar with Radiohead singing style - combined with nice distorted guitar and effects plus keyboards. The ultimate enjoyment is the guitar solo portion during interlude which sounds simple but it's engaging the mind.

It's a good choice for a break. If you like Radiohead, you'd better give it a shot with this album. There is practically no bad track right here. All of them are good ones. Keep on proggin' ..!

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW