Drum Sheet – Muse – Hysteria

Released in 2003 as the third single from Absolution, Hysteria quickly became one of Muse’s most iconic tracks — and a fan favorite for anyone who loves explosive, precision-driven drumming. The track is a masterclass in controlled chaos, with drummer Dominic Howard at the heart of its relentless energy.

The song’s origins lie in the band’s growing ambition during the early 2000s. Muse wanted to create something that felt both heavy and hypnotic — a track that would hit hard but still pulse with melody. The bassline, famously complex and catchy, came first. Chris Wolstenholme built it around a fuzzy, distorted tone using a custom combination of effects pedals, and it laid the perfect foundation for what would become a full-on sonic assault.

Once the bass groove was locked in, Dominic Howard stepped in to build the rhythmic core. The drums on Hysteria are nothing short of surgical — crisp hi-hats, punchy snares, and thunderous kick drums that drive the song forward like a machine. But there’s nothing mechanical about Howard’s playing. Every hit feels urgent, almost breathless, as if he’s chasing the song’s relentless pace and still somehow staying one step ahead.

The recording of Hysteria took place at Grouse Lodge in Ireland and AIR Studios in London, where the band worked closely with producer Rich Costey. Howard’s drum parts were recorded with a blend of live-room ambiance and tight mic placement to capture both aggression and clarity. The result is a mix where the drums feel massive but never muddy — each snare crack and tom roll perfectly placed.

Live, Hysteria became a staple of Muse’s concerts almost instantly. Whether on the stadium stages of Glastonbury or the intimate chaos of smaller venues during their early tours, the song consistently brought crowds into a frenzy. Howard’s performance is always a highlight, especially the transitions and fills that make each version a little different from the last.

For drummers, Hysteria is a dream — or maybe a gauntlet. It demands stamina, speed, and precise timing, but rewards you with one of the most satisfying grooves in alternative rock. It’s not just a song. It’s a workout, a performance, and a full-throttle release of energy. Dominic Howard didn’t just play the beat — he is the engine that makes Hysteria roar.