Muse's new single 'Hexagons' is a thrilling return to their earlier, more electronic sound, blending intricate instrumentals with ethereal vocals and theatrical elements. This track is a standout from their upcoming album, 'The Wow! Signal', which promises to be a cosmic journey through cosmic mystery, existential hope, and the possibility of extraterrestrial contact. The single's release follows a clever online treasure hunt, where fans discovered fragments of the song hidden in various locations around the world, spelling out the full version. This interactive approach to music release is a testament to Muse's innovative and engaging approach to their art.
The song itself is a powerful and atmospheric piece, with Matt Bellamy's soft, falsetto vocals delivering a haunting and captivating performance. The lyrics delve into themes of manipulation and obsession, with Bellamy singing, 'I'm a marionette with severed strings/Gorge on my soul while I'm weak and dying.' The instrumental sections build up and drop down, creating a dynamic and intense atmosphere that matches the song's emotional depth.
'Hexagons' is a nod to Muse's earlier work, particularly their 2001 album 'Origin of Symmetry', which featured similar electronic instrumentals and intricate soundscapes. The song also draws on the theatrical and dramatic elements of their 2006 album 'Black Holes and Revelations'. This blend of old and new sounds is a testament to Muse's ability to evolve while staying true to their core identity.
The album's title, 'The Wow! Signal', is inspired by a real-life interstellar mystery. In 1977, a powerful 72-second radio burst was detected, originating from the constellation Sagittarius. The signal's bandwidth and intensity suggested an extraterrestrial source, and the astronomer who discovered it famously wrote 'WOW!' next to the sequence '6EQUJ5' on the printout. This mysterious signal has become an iconic symbol of the search for extraterrestrial life, and Muse's album aims to capture the wonder and intrigue of this discovery.
As Muse prepares for the release of 'The Wow! Signal' on June 26th, fans are eagerly anticipating the full album. The band has also announced a 2026 North American arena tour, with Bloc Party, The Temper Trap, and Portugal. The Man. This tour will follow their recent European performances, including a headline set at Madrid's Mad Cool Festival, where they replaced Kings of Leon. Muse's live shows are known for their energy and spectacle, and fans are excited to see them return to the arena circuit.
In conclusion, 'Hexagons' is a thrilling and atmospheric single that showcases Muse's ability to blend their past and present sounds in a captivating way. The album 'The Wow! Signal' promises to be a cosmic journey, and the band's innovative approach to music release and live performances continues to engage and excite fans worldwide. As Muse continues to evolve and push the boundaries of their art, they remain a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
