Album of the Day

Because their record label didn't get Matthew Bellamy's falsetto vocals, the U.S. release of Muse's second album, ORIGIN OF SYMMETRY, was delayed for several years. But delivering the unexpected has helped the acclaimed U.K. trio sell millions of records around the world, and this collection fires off metallic riffs, avant-garde moves, space rock and much more with irresistible aplomb. For a set that wears its pretense on its sleeve (its title is drawn from theoretical physics), the songs are well grounded with hooks and powerful performances; standouts include "Bliss," "Plug in Baby" and an unlikely but successful cover of the Bricusse-Newley standard "Feeling Good." Named one of the 100 best British albums of all time by Q magazine, ORIGIN OF SYMMETRY reveals new strengths with every play.