Muse Gazes to 2026: A New Album and the Evolution of an Icon
Muse, one of the world’s most celebrated rock bands, is gearing up for a new chapter. Bassist Chris Wolstenholme recently revealed during an interview on The Leona Graham Podcast that the band’s sights are set on a 2026 release for their next studio album.
While unsigned to a specific label at present, Wolstenholme expressed openness to signing with a new label for this upcoming project. The band’s previous work has seen them extend their deal with Warner Records, a path they seem poised to repeat or potentially explore alternative avenues.
"We will [sign to a label], obviously," Wolstenholme shared. "I think we’re gonna start work on the next record fairly soon. I think for the last few albums we’ve been with Warner and we’ve extended after each album. We may do the same again; we may go with a new label, who knows."
The extended duration between albums, with Will of the People released in 2022, is a deliberate choice. According to Wolstenholme, the band is embracing a more considered approach to their creative process.
"When you finish touring an album, and [when] the band has been around a bit longer," he explained, "the gaps between albums get a little bit bigger. I don’t think we can be banging out new albums every two years like we used to. But it gives you that chance to reset a little bit and think about what’s gonna happen going forward.”
Adding fuel to the anticipation, Wolstenholme hinted at a timeline for the new album.
“I think we’ll start very, very soon, like in the next couple of months. We’ve got a few gigs in June. Only a handful – that’s the only gigs we’re doing this year. I don’t think the idea is to do anything really serious until next year, so I would imagine that 2026 will be a new album, barring any disasters.”
Beyond the return of Muse, frontman Matt Bellamy has been actively involved in other artistic endeavors. Recently, he composed a score for a new audiobook adaptation of George Orwell’s 1984, narrated by acclaimed actor Andrew Garfield. This project emerged against the backdrop of global crises – including the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and the rising cost of living.
Reflecting on these global challenges, Bellamy has articulated a vision for political change, a concept he termed “Meta-Centrism.” He envisions a system that balances individual freedoms with collective responsibility, blending liberal and libertarian values with socialist principles in areas like land ownership, nature, and energy distribution.
While still in its nascent stages, Bellamy’s concept of “Meta-Centrism” presents a thought-provoking alternative to traditional left-right political frameworks. It resonates with a growing desire for innovative solutions to tackle the multifaceted challenges facing the world today.
Muse’s upcoming album promises a continuation of their musical evolution, fueled by their personal experiences and a keen awareness of the world around them. With Wolstenholme’s recent comments and Bellamy’s artistic ventures, 2026 marks a potentially pivotal year for the band, and a time to explore both new music and a deeper understanding of the world around them.