Better known for their complex style and introducing new concepts to their sound in every record, Muse start off the album with the relatively simple ‘Uprising’, a song that in its anthemic nature is really a call to arms against corrupt corporations. By means of a repetitive melody and a low and rhythmic deep end, the untypical sound is very heavy and dense, as a result of mounted synthesizers.
Following is the title track with its haunting introduction and catchy chorus with lyrics inspired by Orwell's ‘Nineteen Eighty Four’. The song ‘United States of Eurasia’ shows the band wearing their influences, namely the legendary Queen proudly on their sleeves as they call to mind the classic ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ by featuring a blend of Arabian styled orchestral interludes, a ‘We Are the Champions’ style guitar under melody leading into the chorus, and finally chanting at the end of the track with heavily overdubbed ‘Freddie Mercury’ like double tracking’s.
The momentum gained by the album in the earlier tracks however, does not carry onto songs like ‘Guiding Light’ with its 80’s inspired arena sing along power ballad feel and the lack in pace of the French sung and soon to be featured in the new twilight movie, ‘I Belong To You’. The organ intro to ‘Unnatural Selection’ and the fuzzed out synth of MK Ultra clearly uncover the art rock pretentions of the band.
Nevertheless, Muse never cease to surprise with their innovation, this time presenting a three part compilation of classical symphonies with rock flourishes in the ‘Exogenesis’ series which unquestionably lives up to the grand promise of their titles. Sweeping keyboards, grand pianos, synthesizers and electric guitars turn this 14 minute album closer into an all out rock orchestra.
Musically a step in an experimental direction, the album may seem indulgent and lacking in consistency over a few listens; however for true Muse fans it all but proves their versatility and deserves no less praise than their previous albums.
