Simulation Theory cover

Simulation Theory

Muse · 2018

60 min · 16 tracks · alternative rock · hard rock · progressive rock

A kaleidoscopic blend of electronic textures and soaring rock anthems that explores themes of technology and human connection.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing for immersion
  • dynamic mix of styles
  • anthems for motivational moments
  • exploration of technology themes
  • engaging acoustic reinterpretations

Maybe skip if you want

  • dislike textures
  • prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

Themes
technological anxiety· digital disconnection· artificial intelligence critique
Career context
Released on November 9, 2018, 'Simulation Theory' is Muse's eighth studio album, following their commercially successful 'Drones' from 2015. At this point in their career, the band was continuing to experiment with a more electronic sound, which had been hinted at in their previous work but fully embraced here amid a backdrop of global political tension and technological anxiety.
Stylistic neighbors
Radiohead· Queens of the Stone Age· Placebo
Sounds like this from elsewhere
OK Computer by Radiohead — Explores themes of technology and alienation with a similar blend of rock and electronic elements.
Year Zero by Nine Inch Nails — Shares a dystopian narrative and combines industrial sounds with electronic textures reflecting societal anxieties.
A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships by The 1975 — Examines digital disconnection and modern relationships through lush production and introspective lyrics.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Algorithm 4:05
  • 2 The Dark Side 3:47
  • 3 Pressure 3:55
  • 4 Propaganda 3:00
  • 5 Break It to Me 3:37
  • 6 Something Human 3:46
  • 7 Thought Contagion 3:26
  • 8 Get Up and Fight 4:04
  • 9 Blockades 3:50
  • 10 Dig Down 3:48
  • 11 The Void 4:44
  • 12 Algorithm (Alternate Reality version) 3:32
  • 13 The Dark Side (Alternate Reality version) 3:52
  • 14 Propaganda (acoustic version) 2:59
  • 15 Something Human (acoustic version) 3:46
  • 16 Dig Down (acoustic gospel version) 3:57

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata