Muse "The Resistance"

I first discovered this band in 2003 with "Absolution" and was so excited by the sound that I actually researched the two older releases, something I very rarely do. "Showbiz" worked for me but "Origin..." didn't. With "Black Holes..." and now this release, Muse is a bonafide, big-time, worldwide smash. You can hear their music at professional sporting events...now that's acceptance in the US market! I saw them live a couple of years ago and was blown away by a three-member band creating all that bombast. There are the obvious Queen influences and I hear Sweet in some of the tracks. Gotta love the classical influences, as well. A piano is a good thing for rock music, in my opinion. Most of all I believe Muse has come into its own sound and identity, and I hope this isn't the peak of their career just yet. But when front man Matthew Bellamy tires of the arena rock scene, he'll be the next Danny Elfman.

Just a quick story about the acquisition of this record. When I purchased the download originally, I wasn't very impressed with the quality and songs and was initially disappointed with it. But after reading multiple glowing reviews, I decided to go online and sample the record from another source, and sure enough, what I had was a hybrid of the new album with some B-cuts and alternate tracks for the 3-part symphony that finishes the album. I revisited my download and finally obtained the proper release, but I wonder if what I have is some sort of rarity to be cherished. If any of you know out there, please let me know!