The Anaheim Honda Center arena was packed with flashing iPhones and fans screaming and shouting, ready for a riotous, talent-packed performance. As the lights dimmed and the first chords of “Resistance” began to play, the noise level exploded as Southern California fans welcomed in the U.K. band Muse. It’s hard to believe the world-famous trio first started playing in small venues like the Viper Room and The Roxy. They have come a long way since then. Standing in front of thousands of fans, it seems that lead singer Matt Bellamy and his band mates have been music royalty for a lifetime.
There is nothing quite like an expectant audience, one who has listened to a band’s albums countless times and is eager to now hear it all live. You could practically taste the anticipation in the air. You could certainly hear it.
Performing on an elaborately built stage of three tall, platforms thoroughly covered in plasma-screen visuals and an equally bright and colorful lighting program to boot, it was hard to focus on the music at first. Muse has the money to make a show a spectacle and that’s what they did.
They played a well-planned set list, mixing singles from their most recent albums “Resistance” and “Black Holes and Revelations” with their older albums, especially “Absolution.” Bellamy altered between playing his electric guitar and releasing beautiful improvisations on a grand piano, singing in his distinct, high-tenor tone. The band’s cover of “Feeling Good” and “United States of Eurasia” highlighted his talents to their peak, especially on the piano.
Guitarist Christopher Wolstenhome, not to be outdone, busted out solos that would satisfy any rocker’s soul. “Hysteria” is a song known for its’ power chords and electric guitar riffs. Wolstenhome capitalized on this as he slid across the stage on his knees and the audience screamed with wild applause and euphoric delight.
Each band member did a good job of interacting with the crowd, letting them take the reigns in hit songs like “Starlight” and “Time Is Running Out,” with Bellamy holding the mic out toward the crowd as they shouted the band’s lyrics back at them.
It’s easy to immerse yourself into a concert with so many die-hard and adoring fans. Even were the talent lacking, the mood is infectious. With every chord progression, with every extended solo whether it be from the guitar, the drums or the piano, Muse gave a show to truly remember.
Although the strobe lights and flashing platforms enhanced the concert, it was obvious that it was the band’s pure talent, unique songs and high performance stamina is what made the show a success. After two hours of pure rock, the audience was still clamoring for more.
Photograph by Heather Tanji
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