Released in 2001, this may be one of the most stunningly powerful and emotional albums I've ever heard. One big problem: it's never been released here! What gives? Back in 98' Muse scored a minor hit with the album Showbiz, unfortunately everyone ripped it for sounding too much like Radiohead. Now that Radiohead have gone off the deep end with experimentation, Muse have picked up where Radiohead left off with the Bends album, loud crashing guitars, and soaring vocals. Only this album is the Bends times ten.

Singer, guitarist, piano player and genius Matthew Bellamy has raised the bar on high pitched Male vocals. Thom Yorke shouldn't be allowed to live in the same country as him anymore. (If you don't believe me, check out the import only live album Hullaballoo as well.) I kid you not, the song "Micro Cuts" sounds like his own personal opera. On "Space Dementia," Bellamy proves that he is probably the best piano player around too. Chris Martin of Coldplay once said "I always think I'm improving at piano until I go over to Matt's house and realize how much I suck." After hearing this album I would go so far as to say these guys are the most talented 3 piece since the Police and Nirvana. They are that good. Here's hoping for a U.S. release one day.