What makes Butterflies and Hurricanes by Muse notable?

The song became a commercial success, charting in multiple countries and contributing to the album's acclaim, which was nominated for a Grammy Award. Additionally, its performance at Glastonbury 2004 showcased Muse's rising status as a live act and resonated with fans for its dynamic arrangement and powerful lyrics. Released as part of Muse's third studio album, 'Absolution', this track follows their breakthrough success with 'Origin of Symmetry' and solidifies their growing prominence in the early 2000s alternative rock scene. By 2004, Muse had established themselves as innovators within the genre, merging progressive rock elements with contemporary themes.

How many songs are on Butterflies and Hurricanes?

Butterflies and Hurricanes has 2 tracks, running approximately 11 minutes.

Butterflies and Hurricanes

Muse · 2004

11 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

A sweeping blend of orchestral arrangements and hard-hitting rock, capturing the urgency of change and emotional upheaval.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Butterflies & Hurricanes (remix with additional guitars full length) — This version amplifies the original's intensity with heightened guitar work, showcasing the band's hallmark blend of classical influence and rock energy.
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Butterflies & Hurricanes (live at Glastonbury 2004) — The live rendition captures Muse's electrifying stage presence and the audience's fervor, highlighting how the song translates into an unforgettable concert experience.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

57 /100

Foothills

Higher than 48% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong composition and craft but lacks cohesion due to its two distinct versions.

What we noticed

The remix features additional guitar layers that enhance the original orchestral arrangement, creating a more intense sound.
The live version captures the energy of the performance, with crowd interaction and variations in dynamics compared to the studio track.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single solidified Muse's growing prominence after their earlier success.
Themes: Glastonbury energy· global rock ambition
Career context: Released as part of Muse's third studio album, 'Absolution', this track follows their breakthrough success with 'Origin of Symmetry' and solidifies their growing prominence in the early 2000s alternative rock scene. By 2004, Muse had established themselves as innovators within the genre, merging progressive rock elements with contemporary themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Radiohead· Queens of the Stone Age· Placebo

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Butterflies & Hurricanes (remix with additional guitars full length)

The shift from introspective verses to an anthemic chorus reveals a call to action amidst chaos.

This dynamic contrast between reflective and assertive tones encapsulates the song’s thematic exploration of resilience in the face of adversity.