A curated list of 7 essential Muse tracks that showcase their explosive sound, emotional range, and genre-blending brilliance!
Muse is an English three‑piece band known for cinematic rock, falsetto vocals, and blending progressive, electronic and alternative elements. Their lyrics often explore dystopia, power, control, and the human condition.
Muse developed from a small-town trio into an international act through steady touring, early festival appearances, and albums that expanded their musical range. Origin of Symmetry earned critical attention, while Absolution and Black Holes and Revelations brought wider radio play. Consistent live performances and strategic global releases helped establish their long-term mainstream presence.
Here are 7 tracks for you to add to your playlist:
Reapers
From Drones (2015), recorded at The Warehouse Studio in Vancouver. Produced by Muse and Mutt Lange.
A high‑octane track full of tension, Reapers fuses heavy riffs, rhythmic urgency, and sharp shifts in dynamics. Lyrically, it juxtaposes personal betrayal and military drone imagery, creating a stark, confrontational mood. The guitar solo soars, and the final breakdown feels almost ritualistic: this is one of Muse’s darker, more aggressive high points.
Psycho
From Drones (2015), introduced during the UK Psycho Tour cycle.
Psycho is a stripped‑down, militaristic march-taut, punchy, merciless. Its spoken intro (“Don’t tell me you’re innocent…”) sets a chilling tone, and the relentless guitar and drum groove evoke a sense of looming threat. It’s less ornate than many Muse tracks, but its merciless directness hits hard, like a sonic interrogation.
Time Is Running Out
From Absolution (2003), released as a single on 8 September 2003. Recorded at Grouse Lodge in Ireland. Produced by Rich Costey and Muse.
One of Muse’s catchiest and most enduring singles, Time Is Running Out fuses a funky undercurrent with dramatic urgency. The bass and drums lock into a groove, while Bellamy’s vocal strains at the edge. The tension never lets up, giving the feeling of impending deadline. It remains a gateway track for many listeners.
Supermassive Black Hole
From Black Holes and Revelations (2006), released as the lead single of the album.
Supermassive Black Hole is a seductive blend of rock and glitchy electronic elements—sinister and danceable. Its pulsing bass, falsetto hooks, and stuttering beats conjure a noir vibe. It’s sleek, sexy, a bit twisted, and it showed early on that Muse could flirt with pop sensibilities without losing their edge.
Hysteria
From Absolution (2003), released following Time Is Running Out.
An adrenaline rush of a track, Hysteria is anchored by one of Muse’s most iconic basslines. It’s feral and propulsive, with swirling guitars and urgent vocals blending aggression and desperation. The melodic hooks feel almost pop, but the tension and drive keep it ferociously rock. It’s a live favourite for good reason.
Starlight
From Black Holes and Revelations (2006), recorded during the album sessions in 2006.
Starlight opens up the emotional side of Muse-luminous, melodic, full of longing. The piano-based arrangement and echoing guitars give it a drifting, spacious feel. The chorus soars with optimism even as the verses carry melancholy. It’s one of their rare songs that balances stadium scale with intimate heart.
Plug In Baby
From Origin of Symmetry (2001), written and recorded during early sessions for the album.
A defining early track, Plug In Baby is an electrifying mix of riff mania and melody. Its opening riff is instantly recognisable; the soaring chorus and tension‑release structure make it a perennial favorite. The song captures youthful energy, rebellious spirit, and dramatic scope-Muse crafting anthem from controlled chaos.
Read More – Upcoming International Acts Confirmed for India : Tickets and Info
An entity of flesh and bones in pursuit of becoming a higher being. A connoisseur of the mystic arts and everything musical. His origins are unknown, and so are his true motives.
