If you have never experienced British alternative band Muse's live performances - what the band is best known for - their live album H.A.A.R.P. is a great introduction to how dazzling they are.
H.A.A.R.P. comprises a CD and DVD of material recorded over two concerts in London last summer. Even without the DVD, it's incredible and well worth the price.
The album opens with pounding, intense arousing drumbeats which segue to a sliding psychedelic guitar riff and an avalanche of drumbeats signalling the start of Knights Of Cydonia.
And it only gets better. Lead vocalist Matthew Bellamy's delicate falsetto voice is a fascinating blend with the metallic music, especially in Hysteria and Supermassive Black Hole.
Muse's musical talents are best reflected in Map of the Problematique, a piece that incorporates surprising chord progressions and unexpected musical instruments. Their real talent is being on stage. Muse have swept all the 'live band' awards in the UK in the past few years, and the 20-track DVD makes it clear why. It features the best scenes from the concerts, from the theatrical opening to close-ups of the guitarist's unique techniques.
H.A.A.R.P. is a must-have for alternative rock fans.
