BLACK HOLES AND REVELATIONS

I only got the album yesterday but have listened to it 5 times already! I'm a big fan of Muse and was actually expecting this album to be disappoinment having read all the comments going around about them going for a poppier approach.All fears are dispelled just by the opening track 'Take A Bow' which is just amazing! Pompous and grandiose music that only a select few bands would ever attempt.Perhaps ELP in their heyday?!! The album does admittedly settle down into some familiar Muse type stylings with more than a nod or two towards Queen as Certified noted in his review.The songs perhaps are not as strong as on Absolution but I enjoy the different tones and sounds that abound across a nice variety of peices.This is very much a collection of songs of which 'Knights Of Cydonia' is the stand out.There are no bands around that can do what Muse do IMO but by their high standards this is only 4 star material.Just stops short of being a full 5 stars because its too eclectic and unfocused.Thats the drawback I feel.But certainly don't be afraid to get it if you have any interest in Muse!