Frances The Mute
by The Mars Volta
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 348 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 299 out of 348
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 348
  3. Negative: 37 out of 348

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  1. AlanC
    Apr 2, 2005
    6
    Compared to their first CD, this album was a big disappointment. If you take the essence out of it, you're left with 5 songs and a lot of needless filler around them. It's a 70 plus minute album that feels like an EP. It leaves you wanting more. A friend of mine who saw them live said that the CD is like being at their concert... 15 minutes of jamming, and then they play the 3 Compared to their first CD, this album was a big disappointment. If you take the essence out of it, you're left with 5 songs and a lot of needless filler around them. It's a 70 plus minute album that feels like an EP. It leaves you wanting more. A friend of mine who saw them live said that the CD is like being at their concert... 15 minutes of jamming, and then they play the 3 minutes you actually recognize from their album.… Expand
  2. ValerieM
    Mar 31, 2005
    10
    It is awesome! Something different and refreshing, finally!
  3. Laura
    Mar 30, 2005
    10
    This album is a breath of fresh air amidst the stagnant idiotic fluff that tries to pass itself off as music nowadays. Pop tartlets and angst ridden pseudo-guitarists/songwriters come a dime a dozen, but Cedric and Omar have taken music and made it flesh that feeds the soul.
  4. SherrellS
    Mar 30, 2005
    9
    I love it so much and its amazing! What I really love is that they put their hearts and souls into this album. Unlike other bands, The Mars Volta didn't just put it out to sell it. I was really surprise of the outcome of this cd. I love the mars volta!!!!
  5. jaimev
    Mar 30, 2005
    10
    Fantastic. Superb in almost all aspects.
  6. kyokot
    Mar 30, 2005
    10
    i was terrified because i didn't think anything could measure up to deloused in the comatorium but geez, i'd say this album is as good or better - amazing writing (music and lyrics), musicians that are fantastic on their own and almost unbelievably ood together and a singer that can sing sweetly and scare the shit outta me at different points of the same song. bravo, bravo, i was terrified because i didn't think anything could measure up to deloused in the comatorium but geez, i'd say this album is as good or better - amazing writing (music and lyrics), musicians that are fantastic on their own and almost unbelievably ood together and a singer that can sing sweetly and scare the shit outta me at different points of the same song. bravo, bravo, bravo. loooove TMV.… Expand
  7. NYGus
    Mar 30, 2005
    9
    A superb album-best I've heard by anyone in a very long time.
  8. JonH.
    Mar 28, 2005
    6
    Takes some getting use to, but it's not that bad, i doubt it will last in my collection though. I would love for this band to actually write real songs, y'know, one's that don't take up 30 minutes of my time.
  9. joshuah
    Mar 28, 2005
    10
    i get high as fuck to it.(its the shit)!
  10. JoshC
    Mar 28, 2005
    10
    crazy but it sounds fucking great
  11. IsaiahC
    Mar 27, 2005
    10
    The Mars Volta prove once again why they are the best band since Led Zeppelin. Seventy-seven minutes of pure genius is what Frances the Mute is. The Mars Volta make ALL current bands seem like a poor joke--not to put down all the other bands out there, it's just that The Mars Volta are THAT good. No, scratch that, They are absolutely GREAT. If only more bands were as great as The Mars Volta.
  12. LewisS
    Mar 27, 2005
    9
    Spectacular use of musical wizardry. 13minute salsa infused operas show that Mars Volta are very much in an elite league of their own.
  13. manuels
    Mar 26, 2005
    10
    it´s very addictive...
  14. PeterB
    Mar 26, 2005
    9
    God I'm tired of reading pretentious reviews from individuals whose sole purpose in life is to seek validation that perhaps they were responsible for defining a new music genre. Just listen to the bloody music. This is different from anything that's come out for a long time. So what if it's made up of bits that have come before? What isn't these days? To sum up - just God I'm tired of reading pretentious reviews from individuals whose sole purpose in life is to seek validation that perhaps they were responsible for defining a new music genre. Just listen to the bloody music. This is different from anything that's come out for a long time. So what if it's made up of bits that have come before? What isn't these days? To sum up - just awesome, if you can just get rid of that chip on your shoulder!… Expand
  15. Privatesorry
    Mar 25, 2005
    10
    Mars Volta is one of the best rock groups to come around in a long time. Frances the mute just proves their genius.
  16. AndyM
    Mar 23, 2005
    10
    fascinating and rockular. Iuv dis shit...
  17. tadm
    Mar 23, 2005
    10
    all the critics that didn't give this a 10 or 100 are retards this is the best display of drumming guitar playing in recent memory this is the first talented band that had been concieved in the 00's
  18. NickT
    Mar 22, 2005
    9
    Dont judge this album unless you have listened to it many times. you also have to listen to the whole thing at once, which can be a challenge at 76 minutes of music. When i first listened to it i thought it was crap, but after repeated listenings i found it was great, not as good as de-loused, though.
  19. NathanS
    Mar 22, 2005
    10
    This is the best damn cd ever made mother fuckers!
  20. Shawnaq
    Mar 22, 2005
    10
    This is the most amazing album I've ever heard. Period. The Mars Volta never disappoints.
  21. JF
    Mar 20, 2005
    9
    An excellent atidote to formula based music. Not suitable for public with short attention span or preconceived ideas of what a "song" should be like.
  22. tomtom
    Mar 20, 2005
    9
    absolutely brilliant. It could be said that the variety and difference in critic ratings is a testament to its brilliance. Not everyone gets it. They view music and the world in a way very few do, because of this the masterpiece they have created often falls upon deaf ears. Not as good as deloused, but nothing ever will be. Deloused, along with Pink Floyd the wall and dark side, arew the absolutely brilliant. It could be said that the variety and difference in critic ratings is a testament to its brilliance. Not everyone gets it. They view music and the world in a way very few do, because of this the masterpiece they have created often falls upon deaf ears. Not as good as deloused, but nothing ever will be. Deloused, along with Pink Floyd the wall and dark side, arew the greatest cd's ever created. Their brilliance will trancend generations, forever giving a voice to the musicians who dont make a cd with the one hit pop shit....a voice for those who make moments, make classics. For volta, it's all about the creative flow, the experience. And my how they have succeeded.… Expand
  23. AndrewB
    Mar 19, 2005
    10
    21st century led zepplin. Finally an album which flows from start to finish, no gaps! Just like a brilliant book that you don't want to put down, you'd feel you were doing this album a great injustice if you were to turn it off before its brilliance had concluded. From start to finish there is constantly pieces of music and possibly the best vocals ever heard that simply take 21st century led zepplin. Finally an album which flows from start to finish, no gaps! Just like a brilliant book that you don't want to put down, you'd feel you were doing this album a great injustice if you were to turn it off before its brilliance had concluded. From start to finish there is constantly pieces of music and possibly the best vocals ever heard that simply take your breath away. I doubt there would be any other band in the world game enough nor good enough to produce a 32 minute song, let alone classic. Cassandra Gemini alone could have been released as the album and it would still be considered in my opinion as one of the greatest this year. As brilliant as At the Drive In were, you can't help but be thankful for their split after hearing this unique masterpiece. Frances the Mute is what Mars Volta should sound like, listening to De-Loused again you can't help but feel that it was the crossover album between At the Drive In and The Mars Volta, which is why Frances is the better album. 10/10 This albums out of this world, so do yourself a favour and go get it. The only band capable of releasing anything better in 2005 would be Tool, but it'd take a great effort.… Expand
  24. travisb
    Mar 17, 2005
    10
    this album is refreshingly original. I think that one cannot truly appreciate the music on this CD without listening to it from beginning to end. Personally, I rank this as one of its greatest strengths, but I can see how some people more grounded in a pop-music sensibility might find this aspect tedious. They definitely try very hard (successfully, I might add) to break the cliche 3 this album is refreshingly original. I think that one cannot truly appreciate the music on this CD without listening to it from beginning to end. Personally, I rank this as one of its greatest strengths, but I can see how some people more grounded in a pop-music sensibility might find this aspect tedious. They definitely try very hard (successfully, I might add) to break the cliche 3 minute pop-song mentality. I don't think it is possible to truly appreciate this album when confined to a one-song-per-track mentality. This album is definitely greater than the sum of its parts.… Expand
  25. JerradN
    Mar 17, 2005
    9
    Although this album is really great, I don't really like how there are so few and lengthy tracks. I had to split up the mp3s just so I could enjoy each unique section of the multi-part songs. Also, the music is a lot less structured, as I've heard a few people say, than what was on De-Loused, but overall, it is still an amazing album, and would not hesitate to recommend it to... Although this album is really great, I don't really like how there are so few and lengthy tracks. I had to split up the mp3s just so I could enjoy each unique section of the multi-part songs. Also, the music is a lot less structured, as I've heard a few people say, than what was on De-Loused, but overall, it is still an amazing album, and would not hesitate to recommend it to... anyone, really.… Expand
  26. StevenC
    Mar 17, 2005
    10
    THE MARS VOLTA I just have to say that I fucking love the mars volta. THE BEST BAND IN THE WORLD. Without a doubt. Completely unique, progressive and In no way repedetive or redundant. They dont need to focus the song on the chorus. Its just part of the flow of the story. The sound and the words come together in an almost hypnotic story. Some of wich can be sad at times and at other times THE MARS VOLTA I just have to say that I fucking love the mars volta. THE BEST BAND IN THE WORLD. Without a doubt. Completely unique, progressive and In no way repedetive or redundant. They dont need to focus the song on the chorus. Its just part of the flow of the story. The sound and the words come together in an almost hypnotic story. Some of wich can be sad at times and at other times It can be impowering and intense. But always a treat for the brain. Its almost like taking a trip through the world they've set up for you to interpret. An evolution in a positive direction. I've been a fan of these guy's since they were in At The Drive In. Its good to see a band grow into something so amazing. And they didnt sell out ONE BIT. A++++… Expand
  27. BartT
    Mar 17, 2005
    10
    Interestingly enough, all of the negative comments I have read in reviews have to do with the Mars Volta "showing off" or being "pretentious". Just because the lyrics are not blatantly obvious does not mean they are "showing off", it means they are "artistic". Just because most people are too ignorant and stale to appreciate abstract poetry does not mean that the Mars Volta fail as Interestingly enough, all of the negative comments I have read in reviews have to do with the Mars Volta "showing off" or being "pretentious". Just because the lyrics are not blatantly obvious does not mean they are "showing off", it means they are "artistic". Just because most people are too ignorant and stale to appreciate abstract poetry does not mean that the Mars Volta fail as musicians. The album pushes the boundaries of the floundering rock scene and has once again awoken creativity and art in music. "Cassandra Gemini" should be a dull 31 minute listen but is not that. The track begins intense, then slowly drifts into a dream like state before battling back. Then the track quickly drifts into this "dream world" (marked by the sloppy piano) before shifting course into a new world. Almost the entire 30 minutes is alive and enjoyable. I would have spent the money for that track alone. One criticism I have is "L'via l'vasquez" was a little too "traditional classic rock" for me and "Widow" was an obvious commercial track. The first and fifth track make this album an undeniable 10.… Expand
  28. MartinMedeskiandWud
    Mar 17, 2005
    0
    Horrible, disgusting piece of drivel. If you want good modern music check out Boards of Canada
  29. ChrisD
    Mar 16, 2005
    7
    People who don't like this can't be called closed minded - there is a lot of fantastic music here, but a hell of a lot of dross, and I can understand people not wanting to wade through 10 or more minutes of wanky turgid FX to reach a good song. I still love it, but the music is stretched too far. It'd be better, surely, to have concise(ish) songs on record, and enjoy the People who don't like this can't be called closed minded - there is a lot of fantastic music here, but a hell of a lot of dross, and I can understand people not wanting to wade through 10 or more minutes of wanky turgid FX to reach a good song. I still love it, but the music is stretched too far. It'd be better, surely, to have concise(ish) songs on record, and enjoy the musicianship and brilliant improvs in their live shows.… Expand
  30. Tristan
    Mar 15, 2005
    10
    Fantastic, even though I missed the concert this makes up for it in a massive way
  31. CurranS
    Mar 14, 2005
    6
    Ok so I think that everyone can agree that the Mars Volta are all ridiculously talented. However, "Frances the Mute" essentially just brings the phrase "it has it's moments" new meaning. When listening to this I find myself being enchanted one minute and disgusted the next. It's a very inconsistant and messy album. When the Mars Volta are on, they are really on; the first half Ok so I think that everyone can agree that the Mars Volta are all ridiculously talented. However, "Frances the Mute" essentially just brings the phrase "it has it's moments" new meaning. When listening to this I find myself being enchanted one minute and disgusted the next. It's a very inconsistant and messy album. When the Mars Volta are on, they are really on; the first half of "L'Via L'Viaquez" is utterly an amazing listen. On the other hand, when the Mars Volta are off, they are really, really off; pseudo power-ballad, "The Widow" is three minutes of cheesy, melodramatic sludge followed by three minutes of pointless noise sludge. It is a terrible single and I find it kind of ironic that the shortest song, 5 times shorter than the longest is also 5 times the inferior to "Cassandra Gemini", a thirty three minute, seven part, four suite opus that was not only intended to be huge in length and much to my suprise, about half of it works. No one can deny the talent of Omar, Cedric and company but no one likes a showing off, which is what most of this album is.… Expand
  32. JiggaJames
    Mar 13, 2005
    10
    Although I like the more structured Mars Volta on Deloused.. I find that I can't stop listening to this album. It's music done on an epic scale with several moments of emotional musical bliss.
  33. StevenD
    Mar 12, 2005
    10
    Best album I have heard in years.
  34. CraigC
    Mar 11, 2005
    10
    this album is brilliant. Anyone who thinks otherwise is too closeminded to understand it. Comparing it to At the Drive in, other rock bands, or bands 30 yrs. ago is retarded. They are doing something that has never been done before. That is what makes Frances the Mute so amazing.
  35. FrancisF
    Mar 11, 2005
    9
    Very little going on with more chops and intelligence.
  36. dakefu
    Mar 11, 2005
    2
    A user review previously gave this a 10, saying "This is the 21st century Mahavishnu Orchestra with a Zepplin influence." It's on that very argument that I give this a 2. It's pretense and crap held together by the band's cutting-edge reputation.
  37. davidg
    Mar 10, 2005
    10
    a masterpiece, from beginning to end, its like watching a movie, only without the screen.
  38. EricL
    Mar 10, 2005
    9
    I've heard a lot of good music, and a lot of SHITE. This is somehting I've never heard. It blends all of the best types of music into a fusion of chaos and symatry suitable for an acid trip. Amazing, just amazing!
  39. VitoL
    Mar 10, 2005
    9
    it takes time to enjoy it as much as DLITC, which tok some time as well. the more i listen the more i like. the mute will talk, give'm time.
  40. VladislawW
    Mar 10, 2005
    2
    Progressive rock was progressive 30 years ago. It seems that these guys don't understand it. If Mars Volta are one of the best young rock it actually is dying.
  41. jeremyl
    Mar 9, 2005
    10
    one of the best albums that will come out this year, period.
  42. JoeR
    Mar 9, 2005
    10
    What a masterpiece. TMV have succeeded in making one of the greatest albums I've heard. Strangely, the album caught me as soon as I heard it and like mentioned before, I only find things to love about it as I listen to it more. All the musical work on this album is amazing and the way Omar is unafraid to hit the "wrong" notes and set such an amazing musical tone is not just What a masterpiece. TMV have succeeded in making one of the greatest albums I've heard. Strangely, the album caught me as soon as I heard it and like mentioned before, I only find things to love about it as I listen to it more. All the musical work on this album is amazing and the way Omar is unafraid to hit the "wrong" notes and set such an amazing musical tone is not just refreshing but simply unbelievable. The trumpet work on Miranda and later on the song is absolutely breathtaking. L'Via bristles with energy and Cygnus overflows with urgency. Then you have The Widow, which is the most like early Led, and Cassandra which is long yet it seems so short. And to those who say the lyrics are nonsense, you've begun to figure the album out. TMV can do something that I've seen no other band do. They can write lyrics that are leading yet at the same time so open ended that it is left to you to interpret. There's meaning there and there isn't. Brilliant.… Expand
  43. Sky
    Mar 9, 2005
    9
    Awesome album the salsa really compliments the variety of the album!
  44. ederl
    Mar 9, 2005
    10
    if you have time to listen to all the cd two times you gonna live with another mind
  45. DonavonR
    Mar 8, 2005
    10
    composition, lyrics, musicianship...this is music at its most imaginative and daring; no matter what genre you prefer. that mars volta enjoys such depricating reviews from indie and "popular" music critics demonstrates, not the volta's lack of craft or artistry, but the mediocrity which prevails regardless of venue. if you prefer a passive listening experience, without provocation composition, lyrics, musicianship...this is music at its most imaginative and daring; no matter what genre you prefer. that mars volta enjoys such depricating reviews from indie and "popular" music critics demonstrates, not the volta's lack of craft or artistry, but the mediocrity which prevails regardless of venue. if you prefer a passive listening experience, without provocation then i suggest sniffing j-lo's newest scent while bobbing along to timbland's recycled, over-produced, rhythm tracks. but , if you want to be challenged by music that demands your attention, this is the best of the best. you do not have to understand it, or speak spanish, you simply have to roll up your sleeves and prepare to get dfferent!… Expand
  46. TylerS
    Mar 7, 2005
    8
    This album is flawed, but is better than the debut especially on L'Via, best song ever!
  47. EricS
    Mar 7, 2005
    10
    Unbelievable. I can listen and listen and listen. It's thick, it's heavy and it drives.
  48. SpiderGlue
    Mar 7, 2005
    10
    Best cd for 2005 by far.
  49. colina
    Mar 7, 2005
    2
    this band was better 30 years ago when it was called Yes. anyone who thinks this record is mind blowing is woefully inexperienced with modern progressive music.
  50. GlennP
    Mar 7, 2005
    10
    Wow and then Wow. For ones who gave this record a bad review, its only because this record is so diversified, so fresh, so new, that many can't fit it in their minds. Remember the Mahavishnu Orchestra, purely monumental for their time. This is the 21st century Mahavishnu Orchestra with a Zepplin influence.
  51. BlaineR
    Mar 7, 2005
    8
    Great album, but an overabundance of ambient noise cheapens the experience.
  52. jeremyh
    Mar 6, 2005
    10
    An orgasm for your ears....
  53. Garrett
    Mar 6, 2005
    9
    Overall, it's amazing, but they could've easily cut about 10 minutes of the lame guitar fiddling and sound manipulation. Some of it is pretty good(like the end of "Cygnus, Vismund Cygnus" or the beginning of "Miranda",) but some of it is just awful(the end of "The Widow.") The actual MUSIC on this album is amazing, some of the best stuff I've ever heard. Inventive, Overall, it's amazing, but they could've easily cut about 10 minutes of the lame guitar fiddling and sound manipulation. Some of it is pretty good(like the end of "Cygnus, Vismund Cygnus" or the beginning of "Miranda",) but some of it is just awful(the end of "The Widow.") The actual MUSIC on this album is amazing, some of the best stuff I've ever heard. Inventive, experimental, catchy... if it wasn't for the afforementioned noise bits, I'd give this album a 10, easily. But hey, there's always the fast forward button ;)… Expand
  54. steveb
    Mar 6, 2005
    10
    amazing musical art, there is a difference between people who just "do" music or art and people who are artists down to the bone, the mars volta are artists, francis the mute takes a little more getting used to at first, infact the first time i listiend to it i was dissapointed, but as i listend more and more, i find it to be the best modern music i have heard, standing right next to amazing musical art, there is a difference between people who just "do" music or art and people who are artists down to the bone, the mars volta are artists, francis the mute takes a little more getting used to at first, infact the first time i listiend to it i was dissapointed, but as i listend more and more, i find it to be the best modern music i have heard, standing right next to deloused in the comatorium, definaly a classic.… Expand
  55. KatieR
    Mar 6, 2005
    10
    This album is absolutely amazing. So brilliant. I love it.
  56. NH
    Mar 5, 2005
    10
    this album is the definition of perfection. for those of you nay sayers, you obviously aren't intelligent enough to understand the concept of something beutiful
  57. LWendelin
    Mar 5, 2005
    9
    It's hard to judge De-Loused from Frances, but in either case, both have moments of sincerity, beauty, and intense musical amiability and...dare, I say, genius. Frances proves itself to be as complex in concept as De-Loused, but this only goes to say that the Mars Volta seem to derive a great deal of musical and lyrical inspiration from psychological subtext and underpinnings inherit It's hard to judge De-Loused from Frances, but in either case, both have moments of sincerity, beauty, and intense musical amiability and...dare, I say, genius. Frances proves itself to be as complex in concept as De-Loused, but this only goes to say that the Mars Volta seem to derive a great deal of musical and lyrical inspiration from psychological subtext and underpinnings inherit in death, pain, and the unknown quadrent of the subconscious, as Shakespeare's Hamlet put it, "the undiscovered country." Perhaps the spark for the M.V's brilliance can be found there. There's not denying the edge the Dynamic Duo of M.V. infuse into their art, and perhaps that's what leaves us yearning for more, even after one listening. In the wasteland of commercial and artistic mediocrity that has been popular culture, the year of our Lord 2005, the Mars Volta's sophomore effort is a sledgehammer to the senses, artful, engrossing, and never lacking in content and intellectual substance. The Pitchfork Media's verbose review misses the mark. Frances is the product of two of music's most over-active, and brilliant imaginations. If you loved De-Loused, then Frances has a face only a loyal Mars Volta fan would love.… Expand
  58. MichaelS
    Mar 5, 2005
    9
    I think it's pretty much you either love or hate The Mars Volta. I love them. The reason this stuff doesn't make sense is because they were all tripping on acid when they wrote this. And it does have a point. It's about a guy's diary they found. I think L'via L'Viaquez is relaly good. Actually, all of it is really good. If you like Pink Floyd and Psychedlic I think it's pretty much you either love or hate The Mars Volta. I love them. The reason this stuff doesn't make sense is because they were all tripping on acid when they wrote this. And it does have a point. It's about a guy's diary they found. I think L'via L'Viaquez is relaly good. Actually, all of it is really good. If you like Pink Floyd and Psychedlic music in general, go buy this.… Expand
  59. JJ
    Mar 5, 2005
    9
    A brilliant, twisting, swelling piece of organic music. Builds on the brilliant potential of Comatorium and under their own direction soars to new heights. This album is worth it for the first and last tracks alone. The Widow, while a little out of place, is excellent. While I'm not sure about the principle riff of L'via it still has enough great moments to be a strong song. A brilliant, twisting, swelling piece of organic music. Builds on the brilliant potential of Comatorium and under their own direction soars to new heights. This album is worth it for the first and last tracks alone. The Widow, while a little out of place, is excellent. While I'm not sure about the principle riff of L'via it still has enough great moments to be a strong song. Miranda is a subtle and beautiful track similar in feel to Televators from Deloused. With the overly long noise parts cut down this album is a ten. As it is its always worth the wait, and with multiple listenings there is almost an anticipation that comes with the breaks. Remember when rock was pretentious but it was so good you didn't care?… Expand
  60. LoganW
    Mar 5, 2005
    10
    this is hands down one of THE best albums i've ever heard, by one of the best bands i've ever come to know. exhilerating, astonishing, and brilliant, this album conveys the epitome of what music is supposed to do- create an emotion and send a message. though the lyrics don't always make logical sense, their stream of consciousness quality is perfect in the sense that it this is hands down one of THE best albums i've ever heard, by one of the best bands i've ever come to know. exhilerating, astonishing, and brilliant, this album conveys the epitome of what music is supposed to do- create an emotion and send a message. though the lyrics don't always make logical sense, their stream of consciousness quality is perfect in the sense that it creates the exact emotion the band wishes to create. though minutes on end of chirping or electronic wave sounds may at first seem strange, even those parts of the album can come to be loved. never have i heard such a compelling, and unique sound. at the drive-in was incredible, and sparta has it's place in the music world as well, but the mars volta has soared past all competition and expectations as the most riveting band in years. these guys, and this album in particular, ephing sweet.… Expand
  61. GreatGatsby
    Mar 5, 2005
    2
    Now seriously, what's the fuss about? ATDI was alright, but this one over here completely sucks. It's as fresh and progressive as Dream Theater are.
  62. MikeG
    Mar 4, 2005
    10
    Its in a word, amazing. Quite frankly my favorite album of the last 2 years. As for comments about lack of stucture if you read about The Mars Volta, they formed the band to escape labels and to make music they would be proud of. They've been quoted saying they dont want to sound like anyone eles. They dont. And for idiots saying they sound like Pink Flyod they are more of a more Its in a word, amazing. Quite frankly my favorite album of the last 2 years. As for comments about lack of stucture if you read about The Mars Volta, they formed the band to escape labels and to make music they would be proud of. They've been quoted saying they dont want to sound like anyone eles. They dont. And for idiots saying they sound like Pink Flyod they are more of a more agressive zepplin.… Expand
  63. ElliotJ
    Mar 4, 2005
    10
    one of the best albums i have ever heard no doubt!
  64. bradW.
    Mar 4, 2005
    10
    In a world of commercially manufactured music and semi-sonic hyperbole, the Mars Volta blows my mind with every sound wave.
  65. OtonielM
    Mar 4, 2005
    10
    Music at its best. Beautiful
  66. jonv
    Mar 4, 2005
    10
    this is the greatest band ever
  67. RaeR
    Mar 4, 2005
    8
    Very nice. Smooth, unhurried. Very chill. Listening to it on a rainy day and I'm having visions in my bedroom.
  68. LukeCz.
    Mar 4, 2005
    10
    This is amazing. There's no sense in making any comments, this record is like boat ride. You can't go out in the middle of it...
  69. JamesH
    Mar 4, 2005
    9
    Second only to Deloused!!!
  70. MikeE
    Mar 3, 2005
    9
    The second I heard this album it grabbed me as amazing, and that still holds true today (I've been listening to it for months, thanks to an advanced copy). I must have missed the boat on the whole 'brevity is awesome" thing, or the idea that every part of an album must be understood by the listener in the first five listens, OR the idea that soundscapes and instrumentals are The second I heard this album it grabbed me as amazing, and that still holds true today (I've been listening to it for months, thanks to an advanced copy). I must have missed the boat on the whole 'brevity is awesome" thing, or the idea that every part of an album must be understood by the listener in the first five listens, OR the idea that soundscapes and instrumentals are inherently flawed. For those of us who don't see Modest Mouse and The Killers as the saviors of popular music, this album is one of the best examples of what we're looking for. Creative songs that don't always fit the radio friendly format, extremely talented musicians who aren't afraid to write something challenging and technical for fear of it being considered "self-absorbed," and yet the music retains it's emotion, something a lot of progressive rock loses in it's 128th note runs and poly-rythmic mayhem. Francis may be long winded, but it's worth hearing the whole thing. I understand the extended soundscape and instrumental sections won't appeal to everyone, but I believe they still add to the album, not detract. Much like Pink Floyd's albums, I view this as not a collection of awesome tracks, but as one whole 70+ minute piece of ass-kickery. Also, props to Flee on the trumpet work, which was one of the first things (first of many) that impressed me.… Expand
  71. BSpike
    Mar 3, 2005
    10
    I feel bad for the reviewers giving this album a 0. This album can't be listened to passively. You have to fully immerse yourself within Mars Volta's world and let the music take you by storm. Dissecting the lyrical poetry opens the door to this world. Once this is done, put the album on repeat, nonstop, and then let me hear your review. I like Deloused...but since I got a hold I feel bad for the reviewers giving this album a 0. This album can't be listened to passively. You have to fully immerse yourself within Mars Volta's world and let the music take you by storm. Dissecting the lyrical poetry opens the door to this world. Once this is done, put the album on repeat, nonstop, and then let me hear your review. I like Deloused...but since I got a hold of this album I am now offically a Mars Volta junky.… Expand
  72. JohnS
    Mar 3, 2005
    1
    Arguably, one of the most disappointing CDs I've purchased ever!!!! 80% of it is mangled crap.... message to TMV, you're not Pink Floyd, never will be.
  73. BrandonW
    Mar 3, 2005
    9
    I've had this album since January. Don't ask how I've obtained it. Anyways it took me ONE MONTH, to stop thinking this album was a disappointment. Slowly and slowly, I started listening to it more and more. Months later I am still finding things to love. I won't go much into a review, because I am not fully done taking it all in. All I have to say is that this album I've had this album since January. Don't ask how I've obtained it. Anyways it took me ONE MONTH, to stop thinking this album was a disappointment. Slowly and slowly, I started listening to it more and more. Months later I am still finding things to love. I won't go much into a review, because I am not fully done taking it all in. All I have to say is that this album requires patience, and repeated listens. Not a good album to start off on if you are just getting into the Mars Volta. I would suggest going with De-loused and then heading on over to good ol' Frances. If you were a fan of TMV before, I implore you to take repeated listens before shelving, selling this. It truly is an experience.… Expand
  74. JamieS
    Mar 3, 2005
    8
    bit too long, needs a little more focus, but still amazing stuff, i'm sure it'll grow on me a lot after a few more listens...
  75. JayF
    Mar 3, 2005
    10
    Absolutely breathtaking - sonically brilliant production, searing guitars that recall Carlos Santana's best day, a cool Latin groove that permeates everything, explosively ambitious bombast, and the ballsy, operatic grandeur that nobody dares even attempt these days. The Mars Volta are a 21st century Led Zeppelin - and I meant that comparison in the best way possible.
  76. AlexK
    Mar 3, 2005
    10
    This album kicks! If your a musician or a poet, this album is enjoyable. Those few who chose this album because of reviews and peer pressure should be aware of the intellegence and musical skill of the Mars Volta. There is a new era approaching and The Mars Volta is the Alexander.
  77. kevind
    Mar 3, 2005
    10
    after reading some reviews on here i've been pretty pissed off, and id like to shout out a big F*** YOU to anyone who doesn't like this band because it's "not structured" or "pretentious." you obviously don't get it, and you are being left behind in the dust as progression is thrown right in front of your face. give the album a few more listens, learn something about after reading some reviews on here i've been pretty pissed off, and id like to shout out a big F*** YOU to anyone who doesn't like this band because it's "not structured" or "pretentious." you obviously don't get it, and you are being left behind in the dust as progression is thrown right in front of your face. give the album a few more listens, learn something about guitars and music theory, and you will realize these guys are the hottest band on the rock scene, just ask Flea and Frusciante of the Chili Peppers.… Expand
  78. dave
    Mar 3, 2005
    10
    our generations pink floyd
  79. A-BOMB
    Mar 3, 2005
    9
    Hey, it's a good one. Take out the ambience after the Widow and I'd make it a ten. The ambience on Miranda is perfect though. I've never done any drugs in my life, but if I were on drugs and put this album on, I'd be in another universe. Or maybe I already am. Who knows?
  80. Anomaly
    Mar 3, 2005
    9
    As with any good piece of art, this work is open to interpretation and apllication.... The very things that turn me onto this album are probably the things that turn most people off. It is frustrating, but this is the way of art. This album speaks to me (even without being able to understand the words)... it is everything that is good about art; progressive, aggressive, innovative and As with any good piece of art, this work is open to interpretation and apllication.... The very things that turn me onto this album are probably the things that turn most people off. It is frustrating, but this is the way of art. This album speaks to me (even without being able to understand the words)... it is everything that is good about art; progressive, aggressive, innovative and emotional (and not to mention these guys are unbelievable musicians). It is at least on par with deloused, but due to its complexity a few more listens may elevate it's standing.… Expand
  81. K.O.
    Mar 3, 2005
    0
    "Tremulant," one of the better EPs of the past decade or so, gave me such high hopes for this band. Yet having now heard their first two attempts at a follow-up full length I'm left wondering what could have been. Exotic song structures are one thing, but when taken to this length, with no apparent rhyme or reason and a complete and utter dearth of melody, the listening experience is "Tremulant," one of the better EPs of the past decade or so, gave me such high hopes for this band. Yet having now heard their first two attempts at a follow-up full length I'm left wondering what could have been. Exotic song structures are one thing, but when taken to this length, with no apparent rhyme or reason and a complete and utter dearth of melody, the listening experience is infuriating. Do yourself a favor, listen to "Tremulant," and hold out hope that the band that created those three songs will get around to recording a follow-up, as there's no sign of them here. I'll be avoiding their next album like the bubonic plague.… Expand
  82. HugeFan
    Mar 2, 2005
    10
    Some people have their heads so far up their asses that they couldn't comprehend the masterpiece that TMV gave us back in 2003. Deloused in the Comatarium is easily one of the greatest records out there, but sadly i cant say the same for Frances the Mute. FTM may not be as powerful as Deloused, but it does deliver a great performance that highly ignorant critics(such as pitchfork) Some people have their heads so far up their asses that they couldn't comprehend the masterpiece that TMV gave us back in 2003. Deloused in the Comatarium is easily one of the greatest records out there, but sadly i cant say the same for Frances the Mute. FTM may not be as powerful as Deloused, but it does deliver a great performance that highly ignorant critics(such as pitchfork) could never comprehend. Listen to the music people. Yes Mars Volta does make music that is uneasy to listen to and hard to understand but that is the point. Even though this albumn didn't exceed my expectations it still gets a 10 because it is a great albumn.… Expand
  83. GinaG
    Mar 2, 2005
    10
    Mars Volta never stops amazing me.. they're right up there with tool!
  84. MikeyB
    Mar 2, 2005
    10
    quite possibly the most complex piece of music i've ever heard. At times it meaders into hard to listen places, but thats the point, it always has a direction that completly relies on what was built before it.
  85. cw
    Mar 2, 2005
    10
    haha i just had to stick up for that album. it's funny how every negative review here is from pitchfork homepage college freshmen :-P
  86. ChrisC
    Mar 2, 2005
    6
    This album is one or two great songs -- stretched out over 70 minutes. They could write a really great album..if they got over themselves, diversified their sound, and started writing *songs*. If they did that they could be like Yes.
  87. noizyme
    Mar 2, 2005
    8
    Very trippy album. 5 tracks of pure prog-rock mixed with electronic, sonic spaces to send your mind guessing every time you listen. Truly one of the more intellectual groups out there that do not dumb-down their sound for audiences.
  88. DrH
    Mar 2, 2005
    10
    As moving and stunning as "De-loused". Mars further displays their remarkable talent and musical vision. Anyone who dislikes this album should go back to driving there safe economical mid-sided sedan and listening to nice safe top 40 radio hits.
  89. jackl
    Mar 2, 2005
    1
    I never liked the MV, and this album doesn't change my mind. As a matter of fact, I dislike them even more.
  90. rach
    Mar 2, 2005
    9
    This album is absolutely INSANE! I'm in love with it. I listened to it for the first time in my basement with all the lights out. I wasn't even high but I swear to god I was seeing thinds. Amazing trip. If you are a TMV fan, it's a must have. Even if you're not, it's STILL a must have.
  91. EarlM
    Mar 2, 2005
    0
    This here album is the reason why I still listen primarily to hillybilly mountain music.
  92. stlvocals
    Mar 2, 2005
    10
    So ridiculously superior to anything out right now, it's a joke. There's isn't a band around that can hold The Mars Volta's sweaty, screaming jock strap. Consider it an honor to listen to the Led Zeppelin of this generation in vestal splendor. A perfect album in almost every sense of the word.
  93. AndyP
    Mar 1, 2005
    10
    Anyone giving this album less than a 7 is just stuck up. Unless you really just don't like music.
  94. johnk
    Mar 1, 2005
    2
    track 4 is good. the rest is sadly bad. i like the ep the best out of the 3 releases.... i miss at the drive-in. do you guys remember at the drive-in?
  95. PaulT
    Mar 1, 2005
    10
    Incredible... Just blew me away... The Mars Volta have done it again
  96. SteveB
    Mar 1, 2005
    9
    Awesome
  97. Tom
    Mar 1, 2005
    9
    Granted, i've only listened to the album fully, once, and i'm on my second stretch now, but this album flows seamlessly. I don't like the way people put down the gaps between the songs, because there seems to be a time of reflection that i personally cherish. If the cd just went from song to song without stopping, i know that i would loose focus on the creativity and Granted, i've only listened to the album fully, once, and i'm on my second stretch now, but this album flows seamlessly. I don't like the way people put down the gaps between the songs, because there seems to be a time of reflection that i personally cherish. If the cd just went from song to song without stopping, i know that i would loose focus on the creativity and amazing work of art that i just heard. I was at first timid about the incredibly latin, L' Via, but after a second listen, it's such a contrast to anything else that the song separates the album from any main stream american album you or i have ever heard. I have a hard time breaking this cd into songs because i look at the album as one massive work. Trying to analyze individual parts of FTM is losing focus to what this album is about. TMV made FTM seamless for a reason, i believe that FTM is supposed to be viewed as a whole, no other way. I recently read a review that i liked very much in that, the band may fly from one end of the spectrum to the other, but there is one prime factor that keeps everybody together. Jon Theodore as a precussionist keeps everything together and easily keeps my attention througout the cd. Also take for example that i am a guitarist and in no way a drummer, so for a drummer to call my attention before Omar is nearly incredible.… Expand
  98. AshG
    Mar 1, 2005
    4
    I quote one guy who feels the exact same way as I do. "I really wanted to like this album. I defended [I] De-loused in the Comatorium [/I] throughout 2003 against my anti-prog friends. Unfortunately, [I] Frances the Mute [/I] is terrible. Without Rick Rubin at the helm, the band lacks focus, doesn't develop melodies, and can't transition between different parts of their songs. I quote one guy who feels the exact same way as I do. "I really wanted to like this album. I defended [I] De-loused in the Comatorium [/I] throughout 2003 against my anti-prog friends. Unfortunately, [I] Frances the Mute [/I] is terrible. Without Rick Rubin at the helm, the band lacks focus, doesn't develop melodies, and can't transition between different parts of their songs. Omar Rodriguez's soloing is hackneyed and goes against the flow of their earlier songs on the album. The latter half of the album is just an inconsequential jam that is utterly boring and stilted." -- Exactly how I feel!… Expand
  99. TomB
    Mar 1, 2005
    10
    oh my god.... the mars volta have done it again as far as bringing music to a new level of pure awesomeness!
  100. HunterThe
    Mar 1, 2005
    0
    This album is terrible and only gets worse with each listen. In fact, it is terrible to the point of arousing anger in the listener. Rollingstone gave it a good review so you know it sucks.
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Awards & Rankings

6
#6 Most Discussed Album of 2005
76
#76 Most Shared Album of 2005

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 31 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 31
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 31
  3. Negative: 3 out of 31
  1. Alternative Press
    100
    It's already the most riveting album of 2005--provided you're ready to carve a wide enough hole in your consciousness to accept it. [Mar 2005, p.130]
  2. Filter
    68
    Frances the Mute documents the Mars Volta as a passionate and explosive band that has grown capable of taking the music in a hundred different directions. [#14, p.96]
  3. Spin
    91
    Frances explores an explosive groove Comatorium only implied. [Mar 2005, p.83]
See all critic reviews »