Muse release Origin of Symmetry: XX Anniversary RemiXX

Combining elements of rock and classical music, Origin of Symmetry received a chorus of critical acclaim when it was first released by Muse in 2001, with the album going on to be certified platinum. Fast forward to the present day, the trio have released a remix in celebration of its 20th anniversary. Artist Sujin Kim gives new life to the album’s artwork, reimagining it to look like a Martian landscape.

Muse stated that they wanted to go for a more open, dynamic and less crushed sound, and worked with longtime producer Rick Costey to realise their vision. Musically, the remastered edition of Origin of Symmetry contains no new recordings, instead bringing forward elements that were muted in the original mix. Many of the changes on the remix are very subtle, just enough to allow the listener to experience the album through a new aural lens. A major theme throughout is the unearthing of strings originally recorded at Abbey Road Studios, which juxtapose the harshness of the album’s sound.

The piano is much more prominent and clearer on “Space Dementia”. Less sporadic left to right audio panning on “Citizen Erased” makes for easier listening, despite the track’s melancholy. “Micro Cuts”, a track where Muse felt they were able to make a significant improvement from the original version, sees the addition of a harpsichord merging eerily with vocalist Matt Bellamy’s falsetto. Nina Simone cover “Feeling Good” is stripped of its distortion and has additional reverb and strings, tying everything together nicely. “Megalomania” sounds like the soundtrack to a movie, where Matt, adopting a more sinister vocal style, plays the antagonist. The audio effects are more subtle, complementing the strings which have been brought to the forefront of the mix.

Origin of Symmetry showcases the band at their most experimental. Muse have achieved their objective, creating a higher fidelity, vibrant and symphonic soundscape to an album which already had no lack of drama.