Muse

Showbiz

Maverick

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Picking "the next Radiohead" may soon replace cricket as the British sport that no one else seems to understand. Muse, a trio of typically dour young lads, is the latest band unfortunate enough to be yoked with such lofty comparisons. After nearly sparking a religious revival among the British music press, Muse are hoping the success of Showbiz, their debut album, doesn't get held up in customs on the way to the States. But while Muse's mix of reedy vocals, simmering guitars and slinking keyboards burns with an intensity and focus that at least vaguely justifies the Radiohead comparison, Thom Yorke and company will not be looking for other work anytime soon. Showbiz captures a young band trying to search out their own musical turf rather than simply copping the classic rock star poses. Fortunately, moments like the rising fury of "Overdue" or the schizophrenic dynamics of "Cave" transcend hero worship and even manage to raise a few hairs on the back of the neck. Muse shouldn't be dismissed for simply failing to live up to their messiah-like hype. But for those searching for the next Radiohead: better luck next week. B