Inside the Guitar Sound of Muse | From Starlight to Won’t Stand Down

This video dives into the iconic guitar sound of Muse, exploring the wide sonic palette that defines Matt Bellamy’s style:
from fuzz-driven riffs and massive modern distortion to clean arpeggios, synth-like textures and expressive lead tones.

The tones featured here are inspired by some of Muse’s most recognizable songs and guitar moments, focusing on energy, dynamics and atmosphere, rather than strict replication.
You’ll hear sounds that work perfectly for riffs, arpeggiated parts, ambient layers, solos and modern rock textures.

Muse’s guitar language blends alternative rock, electronic influences and heavy distortion, often pushing the guitar beyond its traditional role. This video showcases that versatility, moving seamlessly from clean and dreamy parts to aggressive, cutting tones.

Song inspirations featured in the video

Uprising / Time Is Running Out – powerful fuzz-driven rhythm tones

Won’t Stand Down – modern, aggressive distortion

The Dark Side – tight, punchy modern rock guitars

Madness – clean and expressive textures

Psycho – heavy riffs with attitude and clarity

Reapers – fast, aggressive rhythm and expressive solo tones

Starlight – clean, arpeggiated and distorted layers

Supermassive Black Hole – edgy, saturated alternative tones

Supremacy – thick, cinematic distortion

This video is ideal for:

Muse fans and alternative rock guitarists

Players looking for fuzz, modern distortion and synth-like guitar tones

Guitarists interested in clean arpeggios, ambient textures and expressive leads

Anyone inspired by modern rock and experimental guitar sounds

If you love Muse’s guitar work and the way it blends rock, electronics and emotion, emphasize the sonic journey rather than technical gear replication.