String Quartet Tribute to Muse transforms 11 of the U.K. trio's songs into instrumentals for violin, viola, and cello. The
Radiohead tag isn't as evident with the over-the-top vocals of
Muse frontman
Matt Bellamy removed, but songs like "Time Is Running Out" and "Stockholm Syndrome" still have a wiry, modernist throb to them. "Small Print" is stripped of its squalling guitars, but the lead violin and understated cello background bring out the song's melody. Older songs like "Sunburn" and "Muscle Museum" are structurally sound, but won't say much to listeners unfamiliar with the originals. ~ Johnny Loftus