Review:

on 2012-10-09 TheAdamantium Said:

Being the huge Muse fan that I am, I counted down the hours until this album was released. The previous three albums were all "best of" in the year of their release. Given this immense anticipation I may have set myself up to expect the most epic and outstanding album in years. Hard to live up to, I know. Alas, it is not the greatest album of all time& In fact, I'd say it isn't quite as good as the previous three albums. That's not to say it still isn't a great album.

The album opens up strong with the four best songs right at the beginning, then slowing down as the album goes on and ending with a traditional Muse two-part instrumental adventure.

2nd Law is definitely Muse's riskiest and most out-there album, with some sounds and melodies you'd never expect, including dub-step elements. However, if anyone can make it work, Muse can. That's what we love about this band. They don't do the same thing on every album; they inspire something new with each and every track. Take the first single "Madness", a slow, ballad-like song, a little unusual for the likes of Muse. But it grows on you each and every time you hear it. Same went for the previously released "Survival", which was used as the London 2012 Olympics Games anthem.

Matt Bellamy's voice is still haunting and awe-inspiring. Check out the opening track "Supremacy" for an example of this. One of the biggest shocks on this album was bass player, Chris Wolstenholme, also gets a couple of his own tracks to sing. Although he has a decent voice, they are the two weakest tracks on the album.

In summary, 2nd Law is a little shy in comparison to previous albums, but a standout album overall. Must hear songs include: "Supremacy", "Madness", "Survival" and "Panic Station"

Rating: 8/10