Simulation Theory

Sound DNA

• Alt/Indie
• Alternative Rock

• synthetic
• anxious
• theatrical

About

From the retro-futuristic cover art by <i>Stranger Things</i> poster designer Kyle Lambert to lyrical themes of oppression, the English band’s eighth album, <i>Simulation Theory</i>, plays like an ’80s sci-fi flick. The opening set of songs lays out a bleak setting: “Algorithim” and “The Dark Side” are cries for help set against caterwauling synth-rock. Yet rather than wallow in despair, the band uses stirring oratory and a spectacular wall-of-sound to rise against systematic, technological, and mental anguish. They rally the troops on “Thought Contagion,” “Dig Down,” and “Get Up and Fight,” while “Something Human” shows that even a platinum-selling megaband needs a reassuring hug sometimes. The one <i>Simulation Theory</i> song that will surely inspire debate is “Propaganda,” the trio’s collaboration with producer Timbaland. On it, lead singer Matt Bellamy locks into a sexy falsetto while Timbaland puts his foot (and a slide guitar) into the track. Will longtime Muse fans accept a Timberlake-like pure-pop turn from Bellamy? It’s a tipping point but one that was inevitable; after exploring darkness on <i>Drones</i>, <i>The 2nd Law</i>, and <i>The Resistance</i>, <i>Simulation Theory</i> shows the band embracing fresh styles. The Super Deluxe Version also includes live, acoustic, gospel, remixed, and “alternative reality” tracks, plus a version of "Pressure" interpreted by the UCLA Bruin Marching Band.

via Apple Music

Tracklist

Credits