What makes Hysteria by Muse notable?

'Hysteria' became a defining track for Muse, reaching high chart positions including #17 in the UK Singles Chart. The song's distinctive bassline and complex arrangement have influenced numerous artists within the rock genre, while its critical reception underscored the band's ability to blend accessible melodies with intricate musicality. Released in December 2003, 'Hysteria' came during Muse's rise to prominence following their breakthrough album, 'Origin of Symmetry.' This single solidified their place in the alternative rock scene and showcased their evolving sound, which combined progressive elements with mainstream appeal.

How many songs are on Hysteria?

Hysteria has 2 tracks, running approximately 9 minutes.

Hysteria

Muse · 2003

9 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

An explosive blend of hard rock intensity and symphonic elegance that captures a sense of urgent chaos.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hysteria — The title track features a driving bassline and soaring vocals, epitomizing the album's themes of obsession and emotional turmoil.
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Eternally Missed — This track showcases a more introspective side of Muse, with poignant lyrics and atmospheric instrumentation that contrast sharply with the album's more aggressive moments.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

70 /100

Alpine

Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong composition and craft with its urgent energy and complex arrangement.

What we noticed

The song 'Hysteria' features a prominent, driving bassline that carries the melody throughout, creating a sense of urgency.
The arrangement includes dynamic shifts between quiet verses and explosive choruses, emphasizing the contrast in intensity.
The track employs layered guitar riffs and orchestral elements, adding depth and complexity to the overall sound.

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

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 — Solidified Muse's place in alternative rock after their rise with 'Origin of Symmetry.'
Themes: obsessive love· post-9/11 anxiety· introspective loss
Career context: Released in December 2003, 'Hysteria' came during Muse's rise to prominence following their breakthrough album, 'Origin of Symmetry.' This single solidified their place in the alternative rock scene and showcased their evolving sound, which combined progressive elements with mainstream appeal.
Stylistic neighbors: Radiohead· Queens of the Stone Age· Placebo