What makes This Is War by 30 Seconds to Mars notable?

The album debuted at number 18 on the Billboard 200 and produced the hit single This Is War, which became an anthem for various social movements. Its themes of struggle and perseverance resonated widely, leading to significant media coverage and critical acclaim, including nominations for several awards from music industry organizations. This Is War marks the third studio album by 30 Seconds to Mars, released in 2010 after their successful breakthrough with A Beautiful Lie in 2005. Following extensive touring and a protracted recording process that included legal battles over their record label, the band sought to re-establish their identity with this project, which expanded their sound and thematic depth.

How many songs are on This Is War?

This Is War has 2 tracks, running approximately 11 minutes.

This Is War

30 Seconds to Mars · 2010

11 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

Anthemic choruses and cinematic soundscapes intertwine with existential themes, creating a dramatic exploration of conflict and resilience.

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Top tracks — play these first

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This Is War — The title track serves as a rallying cry for resilience, featuring powerful vocals and a sweeping orchestral arrangement that encapsulates the album's grandiose vision.
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Hurricane — Hurricane blends aggressive instrumentals with introspective lyrics, showcasing the band's ability to marry personal struggles with larger societal issues.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The album combines anthemic choruses with cinematic soundscapes but lacks strong cohesion across its brief tracklist.

What we noticed

The title track features a build-up with layered vocals and orchestral elements that culminate in a powerful chorus.
The second track, 'Hurricane', incorporates electronic beats and a more subdued vocal delivery, contrasting with the anthemic style of the first.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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: Critical Peak — The album showcases ambitious themes and sound, marking a significant artistic moment.
Themes: personal conflict· collective resilience· inner turmoil· orchestral defiance
Career context: This Is War marks the third studio album by 30 Seconds to Mars, released in 2010 after their successful breakthrough with A Beautiful Lie in 2005. Following extensive touring and a protracted recording process that included legal battles over their record label, the band sought to re-establish their identity with this project, which expanded their sound and thematic depth.
Stylistic neighbors: Muse· Linkin Park· The Killers