Absolution

Muse goes more theatric with their third release, making it more of a journey and needing to listen all the way through. The bombastic piano boomer 'Apocalypse Please' sets an eerie tone for record. 'Sing for Absolution' has beautiful buildup leading to the gut-wrenching ending chorus. That song seems to be talking to a higher force, asking for forgiveness for their sins, which I love. 'Stockholm Syndrome' is a well known song for a reason, bring more of that classic heavy rock and metal back with an instantly iconic opening riff. 'Falling Away with You' is a heartbreaker and 'Blackout' makes you question your own existence. 'Hysteria' has one of the best bass lines ever and 'The Small Print' gets its hands dirty with angry chorus and heavy riffs. It's crazy to think this album released without 'Fury', as it's my favorite song on here. It makes the album what it is, honestly. One of my favorite lines ever, "and we'll pray that there's no god to punish us and make a fuss", showing people's divide in religion and their back and forth, which I'm guilty of. 'Thoughts of a Dying Atheist' gets introspective with a person on their deathbed hoping there's something after and 'Ruled by Secrecy' is a haunting closer that makes you feel empty inside. This record is truly an experience front to back with its messaging of government control, the end of the world and love. A certified no-skips record and would recommend.

Favorites: Fury, The Small Print, Sing for Absolution, Stockholm Syndrome

Least favorites: Endlessly