Who's behind the notes? Discover Muse: The Definitive Biography
"Muse" is a British rock band known for their unique blend of rock, electronic, and symphonic elements in their music. "Isolated System" is a track from their 2012 album "The 2nd Law," and it's an intriguing piece in many ways. Here are some interesting facts about the song and its context:
Thematic Concept: "Isolated System" serves as the opening track of Muse's album "The 2nd Law." The song's theme ties into the album's broader concept, which explores themes of chaos, economic crisis, and environmental issues. "Isolated System" sets the tone for the album by featuring a sampled speech from Carl Sagan, discussing the second law of thermodynamics, which deals with the increase of entropy and the concept of isolated systems.
Carl Sagan Sample: The voice of the late American astronomer, astrophysicist, and science communicator Carl Sagan is featured prominently in "Isolated System." The sampled audio comes from his 1994 book "Pale Blue Dot: A Vision of the Human Future in Space." Sagan's narration emphasizes the fragility of our planet and the need for environmental stewardship.
Ambient and Instrumental: "Isolated System" is primarily an instrumental track, and it has a dark and ambient quality. The song features minimal lyrics and focuses more on creating a moody atmosphere using synthesizers and electronic elements.
Use in Live Performances: Muse has incorporated "Isolated System" into their live performances in a unique way. It is often used as an intro or interlude during their concerts, creating an atmospheric and suspenseful mood before transitioning into other songs. The band's live visuals, including LED screens and lighting effects, enhance the overall experience during this part of their shows.
Collaboration with David Campbell: To create the cinematic and orchestral feel of "Isolated System," Muse collaborated with composer David Campbell, who is known for his work in film scoring and orchestration. This collaboration added depth and richness to the track's sound.
Critical Reception: "Isolated System" received positive reviews from critics and was praised for its atmospheric and thought-provoking qualities. It effectively sets the stage for the themes explored throughout "The 2nd Law."
Environmental Message: The song's message aligns with Muse's advocacy for environmental awareness and action. By using Carl Sagan's words about the Earth's vulnerability and the need for responsible stewardship, the band underscores the importance of addressing environmental concerns.
Music Video: Although "Isolated System" doesn't have a traditional music video, Muse released an official lyric video featuring animated visuals that complement the song's themes. The video incorporates scientific and environmental imagery, further emphasizing the track's message.
"Isolated System" stands out as an intriguing and conceptually rich piece within Muse's discography, combining science, environmentalism, and music to create a thought-provoking listening experience.