Black Holes & Revelations
by Muse
User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 511 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 470 out of 511
  2. Mixed: 22 out of 511
  3. Negative: 19 out of 511

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  1. msteck
    Aug 31, 2022
    10
    Muse pulls no punches on this record, incorporating fantastic space rock extravagance into their classic alt-rock stylings.
  2. AndrewV
    Jul 18, 2006
    9
    wanted to give 9.5 this album is absolutely astonishing. from the moment the first note is heard to the epic last track (one of my favs by the way) i have chills. The only thing is that it ends too soon, thus the 9.5
  3. MatthewC
    Jul 5, 2006
    9
    Amazing! their best album. Assassin is my fav muse song of all time!
  4. MarvAlbert
    Sep 20, 2006
    9
    Muse always amazes me. The first track sets the tone of the album perfectly as you go through the ups and downs and different moods of the rest of the tracks. I usually hate any efx but Muse uses them to perfection. If you havn't already get "Absolution" it's also incredible!!!
  5. KateB.
    Jul 7, 2007
    9
    I love this album, I just wish sometimes it would be a little more subtle. Other than that, I think it is brilliant, and would recommend it to anyone!
  6. AndyH
    Jun 30, 2006
    9
    Don't judge it straightaway. Besides some obvious standouts it didn't blow me away until the third listen. If you like Muse, you'll love this. They are going to be awesome live!!!
  7. OobahJoobah
    Jul 11, 2006
    9
    The music on this album is of a high quality, and the only thing stopping it getting a 10 from me are the lyrics, which are pretty dire. however, matt has always written pretty dire lyrics, and if you're clever you just choose to ignore them. But even then, muse can be commended to a certain extent for their lyrics. For despite being poetically disabled, muse come out with some of The music on this album is of a high quality, and the only thing stopping it getting a 10 from me are the lyrics, which are pretty dire. however, matt has always written pretty dire lyrics, and if you're clever you just choose to ignore them. But even then, muse can be commended to a certain extent for their lyrics. For despite being poetically disabled, muse come out with some of the most audacious statements...showing that they truly have no fear. However, i want their next record to be wholly instrumental, because in the case of muse, the music speaks louder and says more than anything matt has ever written.… Expand
  8. mioR
    Jul 10, 2006
    9
    Amazing, but not utterly amazing. Muse have done it again, they'e put out yet ANOTHER epic and beautiful album. Black Holes and Revelations gets a 9 for me, but its not better than OoS and Absolution
  9. ethanc
    Jul 12, 2006
    9
    a great album from start to end rivaled only by absolution
  10. AndyM
    Jul 10, 2006
    9
    I felt Muse had reached the end of the road with Absolution. Whatever the merits of that argument, this is a stunning blow to those critics who have dismissed them as Indie music's answer to The Scissor Sisters. Six or seven truly standout tracks, each utterly different to the other. Quite amazing.
  11. PaulF
    Jul 10, 2006
    9
    After listening to their hugely dissapointing third album (absolution), I didn't have high expectations for this one. How I was wrong. This is definatley miles better than absolution and sits right up there with origin of symmetry. BH&R has you gripped from the fantastic stadium filler 'Take a Bow' to the fantastic 'Knights of Cydonia' (the guitar riff at the end After listening to their hugely dissapointing third album (absolution), I didn't have high expectations for this one. How I was wrong. This is definatley miles better than absolution and sits right up there with origin of symmetry. BH&R has you gripped from the fantastic stadium filler 'Take a Bow' to the fantastic 'Knights of Cydonia' (the guitar riff at the end of this song is particularly worth a mention). It's so good to hear them back to their best.… Expand
  12. MattD.
    Jul 18, 2006
    9
    Gloriously grandiose, and unlike any album I've ever heard!
  13. EarlyStorm
    Aug 25, 2006
    9
    This band is exciting - this Cd is exciting. I love it!
  14. Babbleflaff
    Aug 31, 2006
    9
    Love the Album. One question annoys me though. Why the hell do they always get compared to Radiohead :| It's just annoying now.
  15. DaraghL.
    Sep 17, 2007
    9
    Brilliant.
  16. MPP.
    Jul 23, 2008
    9
    Anyone who thinks MUSE sounds like RADIOHEAD in any way, you should go to an ear doctor asap because you obviously have lousy hearing. This album is phenomenal and ranks only behind their best album, "Origin Of Symmetry". It's not just over the top, bombastic prog rock like some people like to say. Explain tracks like "Hoo Doo" or "City of Delusion". If anything, those are flamenco Anyone who thinks MUSE sounds like RADIOHEAD in any way, you should go to an ear doctor asap because you obviously have lousy hearing. This album is phenomenal and ranks only behind their best album, "Origin Of Symmetry". It's not just over the top, bombastic prog rock like some people like to say. Explain tracks like "Hoo Doo" or "City of Delusion". If anything, those are flamenco inspired. Lets not forget that MUSE is the best live band on the planet.… Expand
  17. RSkells
    Jun 27, 2006
    9
    Its outstanding. Muse have been able to fit a range of subject matter and stylistic diversity into this album. one of the best albums of the year.
  18. NegativeCreep
    Jul 10, 2006
    9
    this is something extraordinary... it´s a bit more pop, but I´m not ashamed from this kind of pop...
  19. UserX
    Jul 13, 2006
    9
    Pretty goddamn awesome.
  20. AM
    Jul 18, 2006
    9
    This album is excellent. Were some of you expecting Absolution Part II or what?
  21. AnthonyN
    Jul 2, 2006
    9
    This is probably Muse's best overall record. It has plenty of bangin' tracks much like Origin of Symmetry did but I feel like they've matured to have their own sound, another step pass Absolution, where they get rid of their Radiohead-mimicing past. Exo-Politics is fantastic.
  22. TomM
    Jul 31, 2006
    9
    I was a little disappointed on the first listen, partly because the harmonics etc didn't seem as clever as previous albums (some of the melodies were slightly predictable). But it steadily grew on me to an addiction stretching to switching it onto 'repeat', and listening to the different components proved me wrong and made it apparent how much talent Muse have
  23. MattW
    Aug 10, 2006
    9
    Musically, Wow! Its just the best band in the world. Its not quite Origin, but itwould be unfair to expect it to be. 1 criticism, no Hysteria or Stockholm Syndrome equivalent apart from Assassin, which still isnt that similar. So what though eh!
  24. DavidS
    Aug 17, 2006
    9
    I've never been a fan of Muse. I've always considered them a Radiohead ripoff. My girlfriend pleaded with me to take a listen to this cd, and wow! It's nothing like their previous efforts. It oozes originality and creativity! Every song is gorgeous, layered and full of hooks. I guess I'll be eating crow for a while. I can't wait to catch them live at V Festival! I've never been a fan of Muse. I've always considered them a Radiohead ripoff. My girlfriend pleaded with me to take a listen to this cd, and wow! It's nothing like their previous efforts. It oozes originality and creativity! Every song is gorgeous, layered and full of hooks. I guess I'll be eating crow for a while. I can't wait to catch them live at V Festival! Muse, you've converted me!… Expand
  25. MadelineH
    Aug 21, 2006
    9
    great!!!
  26. ScottW.
    Aug 19, 2007
    9
    The best of 2006. Heavy music has to sound good for me to put up with it, and this dose it for me. I could listen to this whole albume from the start to finish and then some. You don't like harder music?Well it sucks to be you, in this case.
  27. JustinK.
    Apr 7, 2008
    9
    with Black Holes and Revelations, Muse have reinvented the meaning of the word "genre". Every song is different in its own respects, and almost every song is noteworthy. Only muse could make a song about a natural space phenomenon be so cool (supermassive blackhole).
  28. DomW
    Aug 26, 2009
    9
    Would love to give it a 10 but nothing is perfect is it? For some reason 'Map of the Problematique' brings me to tears of joy when I listen to it - almost like a biological reaction. Any band which can take me to such incredible soaring highs in a dead sober state must have some sort of magical alchemy. Can't wait for their next album.
  29. GeorgeR.
    Sep 13, 2009
    9
    It's almost, ALMOST perfect. There are little things they've missed out and should have replaced, but I'd happily listen to this over and over again.
  30. JimmyB
    Jul 15, 2006
    9
    Excellent stuff- from the very opening, you realize this is going to be something of massive proportions. Admittedly, Soldier's Poem is perhaps a little superfluous, and Invincible still hasn't convinced me, yet the rest of the album is of such high quality that it has to take a 9. The album that Absolution should have been.
  31. DrewF
    Jul 18, 2006
    9
    Best album i've purchased in a long, long time. The best thing i can say is that there are no tracks that make me hit the skip-to-next-track button.
  32. SonyaH
    Dec 10, 2007
    9
    "Black Holes and Revelations" is everything that good rock should be: uptempo, dramatic, rousing, and even a bit full of itself (but never so much that it ceases to be endearing). Anyone not singing along as they drive a bit too fast is a sourpuss.
  33. VincentVdB.
    Mar 23, 2007
    9
    Muse lifts the word 'music' to a new level with this album. 'Starlight', 'Knights of Cydonia' and 'Supermassive Black Hole' are probably the best songs ever made...
  34. MarcDoyle
    Oct 5, 2010
    9
    Muse strikes me as a combination of Radiohead, ELO, and Rush. Just saw them at Staples Center for the first time and was blown away. But going home and hearing this album solidified my admiration of this band. Great stuff.
  35. muzziklover
    Sep 11, 2010
    9
    The most consistent of Muse's albums. I loved how each song in this album is a complete departure from their previous releases, giving an exciting, head bashing or head soothing ride and shows what Muse can really do.
  36. JohnnyMercyside
    Jan 16, 2011
    9
    Itâ
  37. coldplaz
    Feb 13, 2011
    9
    not as good as absolution but still amazing
    supermassive black hole is my least favourite, but knights of cydonia is just.. epic
    and guitar solo in invincible is also amazing
    even when muse has gone more commercial, they managed to do great album
  38. SwitSwat
    Apr 20, 2014
    9
    Muse's 4th studio album may not be their best, but nonetheless, it is a beautiful record. It's a must have for a new Muse fanatic and collectors. It's almost perfect. 9/10 *

    *Muse is one of the few exceptions of modern day musical artists that are actually good.
  39. WillyWonka
    Oct 2, 2012
    9
    By and large, Black Holes & Revelations is another great Muse album. Opener Take A Bow starts with synthesizer arpeggios, steadily growing into a massive climax and - after a break down - perfectly leads into the Strokes-influenced Starlight - with it's simple bass line and piano melody probably the catchiest Muse song to date. Lead single Supermassive Black Hole with it's sexy, moaningBy and large, Black Holes & Revelations is another great Muse album. Opener Take A Bow starts with synthesizer arpeggios, steadily growing into a massive climax and - after a break down - perfectly leads into the Strokes-influenced Starlight - with it's simple bass line and piano melody probably the catchiest Muse song to date. Lead single Supermassive Black Hole with it's sexy, moaning vocals over funky guitar riffs and a groovy drum beat surely is one of the album's highlights. While Map of the Problematique heavily borrows from Depeche Mode's Enjoy the Silence, it still works as a track on it's own, with it's beautiful arrangements coming in an electronic wrapping.
    Solder's Poem is a slow, jazzy number with arpeggio guitar, a marching beat and barbershop vocals. Invincible serves as the albums centerpiece, starting of with haunting slide guitar over a marching drum beat, then growing into a heavy rocker with a great solo.
    Assassin is the album's weak point. While still being a decent rock track, it's metal-inspired riffs eventually seem to be going nowhere. Exo-Politics features a groovy rock riff in a simple but quite effective arrangement. City of Delusion begins with acoustic guitar and grows into a rock track with mariachi trumpets, heavy bass and distorted guitar.
    Hoodoo starts with almost arrhythmic Spanish guitar before a dramatic break with classical piano kicks in. It also features one of Matthew Bellamy's most vivid lyrics.
    Of all tracks on this album, Knights of Cydonia probably has the best chances becoming a muse classic. It's a sci-fi-western-soundtrack with massive riffs and singalongs - a true epic and a fitting closer to a convincing album by a band at the top of their game.    … Expand
  40. Scratch
    Jan 23, 2017
    9
    Muse are one of the few bands to cross the breach into mainstream successfully and sound better after doing so. BH&R successfully sets the standard for all bands making that jump. It's powerful, it's heavy, it's loud, it's catchy, and it's still distinctively Muse. The only thing I wish they would have brought with them is the length of their previous albums, as this one ends before you're ready.
  41. EmmeKira
    Jun 9, 2015
    9
    Probably right after Origins of Symmetry, the greatest Muse record. It's the perfect fusion of the progressive and space rock genre they played in the previous records, and the experimentations and stylistic changes they will start to try from this point on. A true gem of experimental and progressive rock with tracks that rapidly became some of my favorite tunes ever (Assassin, Map of theProbably right after Origins of Symmetry, the greatest Muse record. It's the perfect fusion of the progressive and space rock genre they played in the previous records, and the experimentations and stylistic changes they will start to try from this point on. A true gem of experimental and progressive rock with tracks that rapidly became some of my favorite tunes ever (Assassin, Map of the Problematique, Knights of Cydonia, Supermassive Black Hole) and other songs that still to this day remain truly amazing (Starlight, City of Delusion, Exo-Politics).
    Some of the last songs sound somewhat uninspired, that is true, but overall the record manages to deliver so much that you start to forget of the little flaws there are.    … Expand
  42. showbizjunkie
    May 21, 2015
    9
    Take A Bow is a swirling vortex that propels the listener into one of the best albums of the 2000's. Starlight is a classic; Map of the Problematique is my favorite Muse song of all time. Soldier's Poem is soft and sweet. Invincible is a great love song. Assassin's riffs blast the album back into fast-paced rock. Exo-Politics is like the birth of The Resistance album. City of Delusion isTake A Bow is a swirling vortex that propels the listener into one of the best albums of the 2000's. Starlight is a classic; Map of the Problematique is my favorite Muse song of all time. Soldier's Poem is soft and sweet. Invincible is a great love song. Assassin's riffs blast the album back into fast-paced rock. Exo-Politics is like the birth of The Resistance album. City of Delusion is great, Hoodoo is good. Knights of Cydonia is the killer track that Muse has never not played live since it came out. Glorious is a beautiful song as well, although nothing in comparison to Knights. Supermassive Black Hole is the only one I don't really like; it's still very catchy and fun, it just rubs me the wrong way for some reason. Just a personal preference thing. Other than that, this album is stellar.… Expand
  43. Gabrielb24
    Aug 31, 2022
    9
    This album is Muse’s highest point the magnum op you can call it. I never liked Supermassive Black Hole I was always thought that song is awful but the rest is great.
  44. I.Lynch
    Jul 4, 2006
    8
    This is a pretty good album but I am a little disapointed. I was expecting more of a rock album than a prog album. But this record basically shows you the best and worst about Muse. They've made some amazing songs (Starlight, Knights of Cydonia) and some fairly average ones (Hoodoo, Take a bow). It doesnt come together as an album quite like Absolution did,but it still deserves a This is a pretty good album but I am a little disapointed. I was expecting more of a rock album than a prog album. But this record basically shows you the best and worst about Muse. They've made some amazing songs (Starlight, Knights of Cydonia) and some fairly average ones (Hoodoo, Take a bow). It doesnt come together as an album quite like Absolution did,but it still deserves a place in Muse's awsome catalouge.… Expand
  45. MarioP
    Jan 15, 2007
    8
    I'm a big and longtime fan of Muse, having bought every album of theirs at its release. Absolution is and remains their unparalled masterpiece, but this one, despite some cheesy keyboards and FX (such in Starlight and Map of the Problematique), is a very solid and even great album nonetheless. A lot of variety and the usual knack for songs structure and instruments interactions. I I'm a big and longtime fan of Muse, having bought every album of theirs at its release. Absolution is and remains their unparalled masterpiece, but this one, despite some cheesy keyboards and FX (such in Starlight and Map of the Problematique), is a very solid and even great album nonetheless. A lot of variety and the usual knack for songs structure and instruments interactions. I dislike Take a Bow and Map of the Problematique, but the rest of the album more than makes up for 'em. Highlights for me are City of Delusion, Assassin and Supermassive Blackhole. Well done Muse, yet again.… Expand
  46. JohnM
    Jul 10, 2006
    8
    One of favourite bands. Rocked Shepherds Bush last week. Interesting album. Great melodies. Good beat. Some pretty shoddy lyrics. But who cares? The Muse train has just left the station and probably left a good number of the fair-weather fans on the platform.
  47. StevenW
    Jul 10, 2006
    8
    Has anyone noticed the fact that Matthew's lyrics are getting worse? Compared to Origin Of Symmetry, their masterpiece in my opinion, the lyrics are a bit shallow. Still, it's a great cd and Muse show that they are still capable of surprising us with stunning songs.
  48. Matt
    Jul 21, 2006
    8
    Definetly a grower... Has more consistency than Origin and more orignality than Absolution in places. Might even be better hmmm have to see what i think after 30 - 40 listens!!
  49. MiguelL
    Sep 6, 2006
    8
    Who can sound like Prince, Queen, Bowie, System of a Down, Radiohead, without loosing identity? ... MUSE
  50. MC
    Mar 2, 2007
    8
    As my first Muse album, Black Holes impressed me. It moves along very swiftly. I get the feeling it is supposed to be played at max volume to enjoy it fully. And as daggy as Knights of Cydonia is, it is just a little bit special, isn't it?
  51. AidanK
    Oct 5, 2009
    8
    This is a very good record overall without any particularly week tracks. Not as good in my opinion as Origin of Symetry but much better than Absolution.
  52. PeterC
    Jul 11, 2006
    8
    This album gets better the more you listen to it. Personally, I feel that Absolution has stronger melodies and much stronger choruses, but that is besides the point. City of Delusion and Map of the Problematique are very good. Supermassive is a catchy pop song and Knights of Cydonia is strangely good. In fact a lot of the album makes me smile, not necesssarily because I love it, but This album gets better the more you listen to it. Personally, I feel that Absolution has stronger melodies and much stronger choruses, but that is besides the point. City of Delusion and Map of the Problematique are very good. Supermassive is a catchy pop song and Knights of Cydonia is strangely good. In fact a lot of the album makes me smile, not necesssarily because I love it, but because I genuinely find some of the melodies funny...Starlight's keyboards being the best example. The album does not have a brilliant flow like Absolution but does have its good moments. All in all, good, but I really wanted to give the new Muse album 10/10, unfortunately its not good enough. What sums it up for me is, when I bought Origin of Symetery I stopped listening to Showbiz, when I bought Absolution I stopped listening to Origin of Symetery. When I bought Black Holes and Revelations I put on Absolution again. The new new album is not entirely a backwards step, maybe I just expected a tiny bit too much. Its not my fault Muse set their standards so high on their previous three albums. I want to give 8.5/10 but the drop down wont allow me to so 8 it is for this album.… Expand
  53. S.S.M
    Jul 26, 2006
    8
    In a playlist divoted tpo pussy week poprock or retro rock without fututre to play in its grand to see mure carve it up again. The want to glam it up, it could be worse, the is still another stella Muse effort IMO.
  54. JuliaA
    Aug 20, 2006
    8
    this is a great album among the releases of so called modern vintage and those post-thingy.many bands could make great rock-craft,but not many of them able to deliver it in eerie yet beautiful way without being cheesy.the lads surely knew how to make themselves stand out at the map of musical world.as for those critiques who said it's crappy,I think they should spin the CD at least this is a great album among the releases of so called modern vintage and those post-thingy.many bands could make great rock-craft,but not many of them able to deliver it in eerie yet beautiful way without being cheesy.the lads surely knew how to make themselves stand out at the map of musical world.as for those critiques who said it's crappy,I think they should spin the CD at least three more times to get the essence.… Expand
  55. MarkD.
    Mar 24, 2008
    8
    Love em or hate em no one else today makes music this big and epic. It takes a special band to even think about writing this kind of music and when you realise that ther's a subtility and consistency lacking on their earlier records you have to admit that they've well and truly pulled it off this time.
  56. SteveO
    Jun 28, 2008
    8
    It's good, but come on guys... It's Radiohead back in 1995 with "The Bends".
  57. davidi
    Mar 11, 2009
    8
    Great album, somehow it lacks of more guitar power. Assasin, kights of cydonia, take a bow the best.
  58. R
    Jul 23, 2006
    8
    Thanks to this album and people reviewing it, I've added 'grandiose' to my vocabulary. I'll have a look at Dictionary.com now.
  59. ConsequencesForVillainy
    Aug 16, 2006
    8
    Imagine if the disappointed soul of OK Computer were able to gain access to a spaceship and, eventually, become disillusioned with this new frontier. Black Holes and Revelations is a swirling mass of concentrated arena tek-rock, mostly on point and embracing harmonies that have been popularized by bands like Queen. This is an album that starts off blistering (I would choose "Take A Bow" Imagine if the disappointed soul of OK Computer were able to gain access to a spaceship and, eventually, become disillusioned with this new frontier. Black Holes and Revelations is a swirling mass of concentrated arena tek-rock, mostly on point and embracing harmonies that have been popularized by bands like Queen. This is an album that starts off blistering (I would choose "Take A Bow" over TV on the Radio's " Wolf Like Me" for opening track of the year) segues into "Starlight" (ethereal, very Martin Gore/Alan Wilder Stuff), and explodes with "Supermassive Black Hole". The wildly corny "Knights of Cydonia" intro mars what prove to be Muse's best harmonies yet. Three or four outstanding tracks for those who like the genre - the rest are the usual filler you find on concept albums.… Expand
  60. MattBellamy
    Sep 17, 2010
    8
    This is an album of mixed genres which has hooked thousands to muse and made them the biggest band around.Fans may prefare Absolution or Origin of symatry but this is certainly a great album
  61. Vampire25
    Dec 4, 2010
    8
    Black Holes & Revelations is Muse's mainstream success album. It is a great album, I'll admit that, but the reason it's so mainstream is because of the song Supermassive Black hole, which in my opinion, is Muse's worst song. It just sounds too pop for such a rock and roll band such as Muse. But enough boasting, Black Holes & Revelations is a great album. The opening, Take A Bow, is such aBlack Holes & Revelations is Muse's mainstream success album. It is a great album, I'll admit that, but the reason it's so mainstream is because of the song Supermassive Black hole, which in my opinion, is Muse's worst song. It just sounds too pop for such a rock and roll band such as Muse. But enough boasting, Black Holes & Revelations is a great album. The opening, Take A Bow, is such a powerful song that's among the best of the album. Assassin is another amazing song. But the best song on this album, and one of my favorite songs period is Map Of The Problematique. Aside from a few alright songs, this album has mostly great tracks. All In All, Muse has pumped out another great album after their previous fantastic album Absolution. B+… Expand
  62. alexwrands
    May 31, 2011
    8
    "Blacks Holes + Revelations" has proved once again that Muse deserve their place in the British rock hall of fame. Despite not quite having the same top notch music as their previous album, "Absolution", this work has great anthems like "Knights of Cydonia", as well as some hard rock in "Assassin" and slow but graceful pieces like "Soldier's Poem". Very good album
  63. j30
    Jan 30, 2012
    8
    Black Hole & Revelations takes Muse from relatively big venue status to stadium rock status. Even though the album is more uneven than it's predecessor, it takes them to new heights.
  64. LoRevisor
    Jan 15, 2015
    8
    Excelente Álbum Hoodoo E City Of Delusion,são as fracas Assassin e Exo-Polotics também são um pouco.
    Top 5 Black Holes & Revelations 2006
    1-Starlight
    2-Map Of The Problematique
    3-Invincible
    4-Supermassive Black Hole
    5-Knights Of Cydonia
  65. Decim
    May 24, 2017
    8
    Another fantastic album by Muse, after band's masterpiece "Absolution", Matthew Bellamy's band shows that it wasn't only luck: they have such a huge potential.
    Some songs are a little repetitive but the quality of music is really high.
  66. Kvan
    Jul 13, 2006
    7
    Muse's newest album fails to live up to its two predecessors. However, that isn't saying that its not a good album. It's starts off fairly week with the first track, Take A Bow. Gets going with the next three tracks, but then sputters with Soldiers Poem and Invincible. By the end of the disk, Muse pulls out all the stops with Knights of Cyndonia. Overall this album has more Muse's newest album fails to live up to its two predecessors. However, that isn't saying that its not a good album. It's starts off fairly week with the first track, Take A Bow. Gets going with the next three tracks, but then sputters with Soldiers Poem and Invincible. By the end of the disk, Muse pulls out all the stops with Knights of Cyndonia. Overall this album has more hits than misses. But the duality of this album is highly annoying, hense the 7/10.… Expand
  67. StefanS
    Oct 15, 2006
    7
    I am a huge fan of Muse, having been blown away by Absolution. However, from my point of view, this album does not live up to their last effort. Take a Bow and Starlight are two fantastic tracks. But tracks like Supermassive Black Hole sounded a bit lame to me. Nice beat, but there's better and more original dance-songs. All in all, one should experience the record, especially if I am a huge fan of Muse, having been blown away by Absolution. However, from my point of view, this album does not live up to their last effort. Take a Bow and Starlight are two fantastic tracks. But tracks like Supermassive Black Hole sounded a bit lame to me. Nice beat, but there's better and more original dance-songs. All in all, one should experience the record, especially if you're a Muse fan. But otherwise, go and listen to their previous effort for a more bombastic and enjoyable effort.… Expand
  68. scottyy
    Jul 12, 2006
    7
    not bad but couldv'e been a whole lot better..Thought Absolution was hard to top in such short notice but I believe they have yet to make their best album which is saying alot..Sooner or later every band comes full circle and back to their roots (abstract) art punk prog rock; to make their masterpiece...
  69. NickP
    Jul 12, 2006
    7
    The album is distinctively Muse, but it sounds overdeveloped. It is as if the band attempted to make the ablum too great by micro managing the melodies. The result is a series of complexly orchistrated songs that nowhere near rival the previous three albums.Have been a hardcore Muse fan and while the album will be listened to, it is still dissappointing. Badly wanted and expected to give The album is distinctively Muse, but it sounds overdeveloped. It is as if the band attempted to make the ablum too great by micro managing the melodies. The result is a series of complexly orchistrated songs that nowhere near rival the previous three albums.Have been a hardcore Muse fan and while the album will be listened to, it is still dissappointing. Badly wanted and expected to give the album a 10...… Expand
  70. EmilyH
    May 25, 2007
    7
    Something entierly different by a band that are used to producing "different" music. Alot softer and produced from previous masterpieces. "Knights of Cydonia" is the most accentric pieces of rock to spawn from a indie/emo-suffocating 2006. "Starlight" and "Invincble" merging on a more radio-friendly pop-rock side. Not bad but previous albums were better. Muse re-invent themselves Something entierly different by a band that are used to producing "different" music. Alot softer and produced from previous masterpieces. "Knights of Cydonia" is the most accentric pieces of rock to spawn from a indie/emo-suffocating 2006. "Starlight" and "Invincble" merging on a more radio-friendly pop-rock side. Not bad but previous albums were better. Muse re-invent themselves everytime so prepare yourselves for something more in years to come.… Expand
  71. TravisA
    Jul 18, 2006
    7
    To me this actually *does* seem like Absolution II--with a couple tracks in the beginning to stir up the variation (the single standing out the most in my mind as different-sounding), the rest of this is based on the same formula with not as stellar results.
  72. loki
    Aug 1, 2006
    7
    Not a bad album, but definately not their best. Self indulgent, but thats what we love about muse. Still a great album with one of the best endings (last 3 songs) in recent time.
  73. DWit
    Aug 20, 2006
    7
    I love Absolution and Origin Of Symmetry but this album has crossed the line of grandiose and become lame. I still believe this is better than Showbiz but Muse can do better. I love the emotion that they evoke, even though it has become lame. That being said, this album isnt horrible and I still love Muse.
  74. KevinM
    Sep 16, 2006
    7
    Queen strikes back. Nothing innovative, some tracks are good enough. It's not the best album of 2006, don't try selling that stuff to me.
  75. Ricko
    Dec 2, 2014
    7
    The good songs on this record are fantastic and include some of the best stuff Muse have produced. On the better moments the band get the balance between dramatic opera rock and heavy indie rock spot on. The likes of Supermassive Black Hole (one of the singles of 2006) and "Map of the problematique" have some real killer hooks going on. There are a handful of other catchy rockers on thereThe good songs on this record are fantastic and include some of the best stuff Muse have produced. On the better moments the band get the balance between dramatic opera rock and heavy indie rock spot on. The likes of Supermassive Black Hole (one of the singles of 2006) and "Map of the problematique" have some real killer hooks going on. There are a handful of other catchy rockers on there as well. Unfortunately, as often happens with Muse, for 30% of the album they disappear in the direction of up their backsides and the weaker tracks are very skipable. Contains some bankers for inclusion on the eventual "best of" and is as consistent an album as the band have produced. Far from brilliant but at the same time well worth a listen. … Expand
  76. vscoott345
    Apr 26, 2012
    7
    I don't like this one as much as Absolution. I felt the songs were not as strong here. I felt disappointed, I felt like they could have done a lot better. "Knights of Cydonia" and "Hoodoo" are the two tracks that really make the album epic as hell, putting "Supermassive Black Hole" and "Starlight" aside.
  77. mw04
    May 13, 2022
    7
    The flow of the album, particularly in the first half is excellent.
    Best song: Knights of Cydonia
    Most underrated song: Map of the Problematique
    Worst song: Exo Politics

    Most memorable parts: The end of Take a Bow is spectacular, The bridge in Invincible is outstanding, The guitar riffs in Knights of Cydonia
  78. Swiifitie
    May 21, 2023
    7
    Acho curioso como Starlight é uma das minhas músicas favoritas all time mas o resto do álbum simplesmente não tem aquele sabor...é bem exprimental e aprecio as letras, porém.
  79. SeamusS
    Mar 30, 2007
    6
    With an album as big, layered and slightly over produced as this, it's easy to hate. However, Muse manages to pull just slightly ahead of pretentious by making it fun in a Tongue And Cheek way. There are emotional moments no doubt but they're more comparable to a rollercoster than an epiphany. In all it's fun smart/dumb music that, all the while immediately harmless, With an album as big, layered and slightly over produced as this, it's easy to hate. However, Muse manages to pull just slightly ahead of pretentious by making it fun in a Tongue And Cheek way. There are emotional moments no doubt but they're more comparable to a rollercoster than an epiphany. In all it's fun smart/dumb music that, all the while immediately harmless, remains absolutely dangerous to the middle-schoolers and young high school kids that will grow up thinking they know good music because of a band that understands how to work a multi-tracking mixing board and a few effects peddles.… Expand
  80. Timothj
    Jul 29, 2006
    6
    As a massive longtime muse fan im am a little dissapointed with this release. Its not that this album is so dramatically different to others that bothers me. Its that muse seem to have let the production of many of the tracks get in the way of writing amazing songs. The first four tracks are brilliant, but until knights of cydonia begins to play, i get annoyedand bored. Despite what some As a massive longtime muse fan im am a little dissapointed with this release. Its not that this album is so dramatically different to others that bothers me. Its that muse seem to have let the production of many of the tracks get in the way of writing amazing songs. The first four tracks are brilliant, but until knights of cydonia begins to play, i get annoyedand bored. Despite what some idiots say about muse being radiohead imitators, most would agree they are a very original band. Absolution sounds like nothing i'd ever heard before (and by the way i own EVERYTHING radiohead have released) however in 'black holes' many songs sound like muse playing other bands songs. netherless, my faith is not lost as this album will provide people much enjoyment to most muse fans and attract new fans with new sounds.… Expand
  81. Argeon
    Nov 13, 2015
    6
    Black Holes and Revelations, in my opinion, is the most rhythmic album that Muse has put out. It really feels like watching a classic B movie - it definitely has some great songs, some of which have become classics at this point (Starlight, Knights of Cydonia), and some of which have not (Exo-Politics, Hoodoo, etc.)

    However, this album feels bored. The concept is there, but the album is    Black Holes and Revelations, in my opinion, is the most rhythmic album that Muse has put out. It really feels like watching a classic B movie - it definitely has some great songs, some of which have become classics at this point (Starlight, Knights of Cydonia), and some of which have not (Exo-Politics, Hoodoo, etc.)

    However, this album feels bored. The concept is there, but the album is unsatisfying and kind of boring to listen to. It's still enjoyable, but given the option, it's one of those albums you'd put aside thinking "maybe later" and finding something better.    … Expand
  82. DaisyB
    Jul 20, 2006
    5
    This album is Muse's worst.. im not one for political music especially not from people who dont even live in the country they're bitching about the leader of. Nontheless.. there are a few good tracks.. Map of Problematique is amazing and im beginning to think thats the reason i bought the album. Knights of Cydonia is pretty good. Asassin is good as well.. And am i the only one This album is Muse's worst.. im not one for political music especially not from people who dont even live in the country they're bitching about the leader of. Nontheless.. there are a few good tracks.. Map of Problematique is amazing and im beginning to think thats the reason i bought the album. Knights of Cydonia is pretty good. Asassin is good as well.. And am i the only one who noticed a similarity in one of the songs (i cant think of the name) to Audioslave's "Like A Stone"? anyway, i hope the next album is amazing. I was expecting much more from my favorite band, but after releasing three masterpieces, i suppose you should have a bad one for balance.… Expand
  83. Systool
    Jul 10, 2006
    5
    A very deceiving album... I rather appreciate the first three albums of the band, but this one just doesn't work : too much emphasis, no solid structures, not any unforgettable song... Sorry, guys, this album sucks
  84. Marc
    Jun 28, 2008
    5
    Paraphrasing Matt Bellamy in 'Supermassive Black Hole': Muse are kings of the superficial.
  85. DaveR
    Sep 26, 2006
    5
    It has it's highlights, but it goes away from the unity and powerful emotion that made "Absolution" such a solid album and moves towards a discombobulated techno-savvy mess. This is not to say that the album was a failure, but that it does not feel like an album. Highlights include: "Map of the Problematique" and "City of Delusions"
  86. DavidW
    Jul 14, 2006
    4
    Black holes and revelations is easily Muse's weakest album. There are maybe four good songs (Starlight, Knights, Supermassive, Problematique) and the rest is the kind of pointless filler we simply don't expect from Muse.
  87. RoryD
    Aug 22, 2009
    4
    The album is all huff and puff, but will never blow the house down. The lack of decent lyrics is covered over by fancy guitar work and crashes and bangs. Soldiers Song is by far the worst Muse song on record, and the albums only saving grace is when they turn the lunacy up for Knights of Cydonia, actually a great song. Muse ,disappointingly, are now just a formerly great band commiting The album is all huff and puff, but will never blow the house down. The lack of decent lyrics is covered over by fancy guitar work and crashes and bangs. Soldiers Song is by far the worst Muse song on record, and the albums only saving grace is when they turn the lunacy up for Knights of Cydonia, actually a great song. Muse ,disappointingly, are now just a formerly great band commiting latter-day sins.… Expand
  88. StPete
    Jul 12, 2006
    4
    It is very hard for me to give a low rating to Muse. They are one of my top 5 all-time favorite bands, but I was so disappointed in this album. I've given it a couple listens to try and really let it envelope me like their other albums did when they came out, but this one does nothing for me. The 4 is for Take A Bow and Knights of Cydonia... the opening and closing tracks are It is very hard for me to give a low rating to Muse. They are one of my top 5 all-time favorite bands, but I was so disappointed in this album. I've given it a couple listens to try and really let it envelope me like their other albums did when they came out, but this one does nothing for me. The 4 is for Take A Bow and Knights of Cydonia... the opening and closing tracks are incredible. I just wish everything in between wasn't so boring. Sorry Muse, I'll wait and hope for the next one and go back to non-stop spinning of OoS, Absolution and Showbiz in the meantime. :(… Expand
  89. andyy
    Jul 16, 2006
    4
    Ho-hum! Another round of Radiohead-wanna-be tracks. "Problematique"? Where have I heard that title before? Oh yeah: Radiohead's KID A album, the song "Idioteque."
  90. ZapB.
    Apr 14, 2008
    4
    An ok album, but someone remind me again how the lead singer doesn't sound exactly like Thom Yorke?
  91. DavidC.
    Sep 13, 2009
    3
    The sad part is, Muse used to sound much better when they were a Radiohead clone outfit. For all their want of original ideas, Showbiz was good for its use of a tried and tested formula. Since then, they have given us wave after wave of dreary metallic cock rock. They know how to please a crowd and fairplay to them... it's why their fans love them as a live act. But for all their The sad part is, Muse used to sound much better when they were a Radiohead clone outfit. For all their want of original ideas, Showbiz was good for its use of a tried and tested formula. Since then, they have given us wave after wave of dreary metallic cock rock. They know how to please a crowd and fairplay to them... it's why their fans love them as a live act. But for all their theatrical affectations, their music is just not much fun. If you tried to imagine Queen without the irresistible pop melodies and more kitsch, then you're about halfway there. Still, if Metallica or Dream Theatre is your sort of thing, then I'm no one to stop you listening to them.… Expand
  92. ParanoidAndroid
    Jul 11, 2006
    2
    The worst LP of muse. Actually muse are very interesting in the money and make song more popular possible.
  93. MartinF
    Jul 14, 2006
    1
    Such a disappointment. Gentlemen you should have done better!
  94. EthanP
    Sep 9, 2006
    1
    "Pretentious, bombastic theatrics" would've been interesting. This is more "boring."
  95. Trippynet
    Dec 14, 2014
    1
    Just to confirm, I love Muse and there are some good songs on this album. So why such a low score? Simple, the mastering on this album is absolutely appalling and it's almost unlistenable as a result.

    Take A Bow starts nicely, but by the end the drums are almost inaudible because the hyper-compression has squashed them completely out of the mix. The gratuitous digital clipping in    Just to confirm, I love Muse and there are some good songs on this album. So why such a low score? Simple, the mastering on this album is absolutely appalling and it's almost unlistenable as a result.

    Take A Bow starts nicely, but by the end the drums are almost inaudible because the hyper-compression has squashed them completely out of the mix. The gratuitous digital clipping in SuperMassive Black Hole will make your ears bleed and Map Of The Problematique is just a solid wall of flat, muffled digital distortion from start to finish.

    Muse seriously need to get this album remastered by a professional. In it's current form, it's a potentially great album that has been absolutely destroyed by some of the worst mastering I've heard since Californication by the Red Hot Chili Peppers.    … Expand
  96. rottencabbage
    Aug 31, 2006
    0
    Utter rubbish, like the rest of their catalogue. It's bombastic, pretentious, and completely uninspired (never mind Matthew Bellamy being amongst the nation's most asinine lyricists, with drivel vomiting forth from his Thom Yorke/Jeff Buckley-wannabe maw). Wait, that's how every Muse album sounds, isn't it?
  97. DonoL.
    Sep 25, 2007
    0
    This is the worst most pathetic album i have ever heard.
  98. OndraL.
    Jul 10, 2006
    0
    this is the piece of shit
  99. GuyH
    Oct 16, 2006
    0
    The first track is laughable - it sounds like the theme to 'Flash Gordon' (only cheesier) and we are supposed to take this band seriously. They keep re-hashing the same melodies over and over again. They are talented musicians but should forget songs and vocals (the singing is dire) and write experimental instrumental music that challenges them - they are not playing to their The first track is laughable - it sounds like the theme to 'Flash Gordon' (only cheesier) and we are supposed to take this band seriously. They keep re-hashing the same melodies over and over again. They are talented musicians but should forget songs and vocals (the singing is dire) and write experimental instrumental music that challenges them - they are not playing to their artistic strengths (although fair play - they are making some cash so probably couldn't care less!!!)… Expand
  100. BrandonD
    Jul 11, 2006
    0
    I think it would be far more accurate to say that anyone who likes Muse has terrible taste in music. These critics aren't harsh enough. Muse is super-cheesy, over-the-top but not endearingly so, and they come off like what they are, mid-90's Bends-era Radiohead ripoffs with delusions of grandeur and the technical talent (which is the only nice thingI can say about them) to back I think it would be far more accurate to say that anyone who likes Muse has terrible taste in music. These critics aren't harsh enough. Muse is super-cheesy, over-the-top but not endearingly so, and they come off like what they are, mid-90's Bends-era Radiohead ripoffs with delusions of grandeur and the technical talent (which is the only nice thingI can say about them) to back up their lame dreams. You might as well admit you like Creed and Nickelback while you're rockin' to Muse, it's practically the same. Even Coldplay's lame-duck non-rock has more nuance than this.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

10
#10 Most Discussed Album of 2006
22
#22 Most Shared Album of 2006

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 32 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 32
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 32
  3. Negative: 1 out of 32
  1. Observer Music Monthly
    100
    Entertaining and rabble-rousing, daft and deadly serious, it's a fantastic record, with almost limitless appeal.
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  2. Under The Radar
    70
    Black Holes and Revelations isn’t a perfect record but it’s a worthy addition to an already stellar catalog. [#14]
  3. The Guardian
    80
    It shouldn't work, but Bellamy's mania is so convincingly realised that even the most avowed Muse refusenik may have to finally concede defeat.
    Read full review
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