Muse Bassist Chris Wolstenholme Provides Update on Band’s New Music Timeline and Label Future

LONDON, UK – Chris Wolstenholme, the bassist for the globally renowned rock band Muse, has offered fans a significant update regarding the group’s plans for upcoming music and their current standing in the recording industry.

Speaking on the fifth episode of broadcaster Leona Graham’s podcast, released on February 10, 2025, Wolstenholme provided insights into when listeners might expect new material and the strategic decisions facing the band concerning their recording label.

Anticipating New Material

During the interview, Wolstenholme revealed that despite not having a concrete album cycle immediately planned, the band is poised to commence the creative process relatively soon. He indicated that Muse intends to begin working on new music “very, very soon, like in the next couple of months” from the date of the podcast’s release in February 2025.

This timeline suggests that initial songwriting sessions or musical exploration could be underway by spring 2025. However, Wolstenholme also offered a dose of realism, clarifying that the band does not plan to delve into anything “really serious until next year.”

This distinction implies a phased approach, with 2025 likely dedicated to initial ideas, jamming, and exploring musical directions, before committing to a full-scale recording project in 2026.

Potential Album Release and Creative Direction

The bassist’s comments point towards a potential new album release surfacing in 2026, although he prudently added that this timeframe is “contingent on unforeseen issues.” The music industry, particularly the process of writing, recording, producing, and releasing an album, is often subject to delays, making such caveats standard practice.

Regarding the creative trajectory for the new material, Wolstenholme stated that the band intends to “just start from scratch.” This suggests a deliberate effort to approach the next body of work without predefined constraints or a specific stylistic mandate, allowing for organic evolution and potential experimentation in their signature blend of progressive rock, electronic elements, and alternative anthems.

This approach contrasts with bands who might enter a writing period with a specific concept or sound in mind, hinting at a desire within Muse to explore fresh sonic territories.

Navigating the Label Landscape

Beyond the creative process, Wolstenholme also shed light on Muse’s current contractual situation. He explicitly stated that the band is presently not signed to a recording label.

He noted their long-standing relationship with Warners, mentioning that they were affiliated with the label for their “last few albums.” This period with Warner Music encompassed several successful releases, solidifying their global presence.

Now, as independent artists, even if temporarily, Muse is in a position to evaluate their options for the future. Wolstenholme confirmed they are considering various possibilities.

This includes the potential of re-signing with Warners, a familiar partner with whom they have a proven track record. Alternatively, the band is also exploring the possibility of moving to a new label, which could offer different opportunities, global reach, or creative control structures.

The decision on their future label home will undoubtedly influence the distribution, marketing, and overall release strategy for their next album, whenever it ultimately arrives.

Looking Ahead

Wolstenholme’s statements on the Leona Graham podcast provide a clear, albeit preliminary, roadmap for Muse’s activities over the next couple of years. Fans can anticipate the band beginning initial work on new music in the coming months of 2025, with serious recording efforts likely commencing in 2026.

The band’s current status as unsigned artists introduces an interesting variable into their future, as they weigh whether to continue their relationship with their former label or forge a new path.

As Muse prepares to embark on its next musical chapter, the insights from Chris Wolstenholme offer a valuable glimpse into the process, the timeline, and the business decisions that will shape the band’s output following their previous acclaimed works.