The 2nd Law cover

The 2nd Law

Muse · 2012

53 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock · hard rock · progressive rock

A dynamic fusion of orchestral elements and electronic textures layered over anthemic rock melodies.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing with peaks
  • dynamic journey of contrasts
  • anxious energy for intense moments
  • cathartic build to resolution

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer straightforward song structures
  • seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Themes
environmental collapse· Olympic ambition· chaotic love
Career context
Released in 2012, 'The 2nd Law' was Muse's sixth studio album, following their commercially successful 'The Resistance' (2009). At this point, the band had solidified their status as arena rock giants, experimenting with new sounds alongside their trademark style, particularly incorporating dubstep influences.
Stylistic neighbors
Radiohead· Queens of the Stone Age· Placebo
Sounds like this from elsewhere
The King of Limbs by Radiohead — Merges electronic textures with rock, exploring themes of disconnection and environmental anxiety.
Year Zero by Nine Inch Nails — Shares a dystopian narrative and blends industrial sounds with orchestral elements for a dramatic effect.
Death of a Bachelor by Panic! at the Disco — Combines anthemic rock with lush orchestration, reflecting on love and existential themes with flair.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Supremacy 4:55
  • 2 Madness 4:39
  • 3 Panic Station 3:04
  • 4 Prelude 0:57
  • 5 Survival 4:17
  • 6 Follow Me 3:50
  • 7 Animals 4:22
  • 8 Explorers 5:46
  • 9 Big Freeze 4:39
  • 10 Save Me 5:08
  • 11 Liquid State 3:02
  • 12 The 2nd Law: Unsustainable 3:48
  • 13 The 2nd Law: Isolated System 4:59

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata