Influenced by artists as diverse as
Pink Floyd,
the Cure, and
Bjoerk, emo outfit
30 Seconds to Mars' 2002 self-titled debut is a highly ambitious space-themed concept album produced by
Bob Ezrin (
Lou Reed,
Pink Floyd) and
Brian Virtue (
Jane's Addiction). Recorded in Los Angeles and featuring the singles "Capricorn (A Brand New Name)," and "Edge of the Earth," its 11 tracks are packed full of heavy, riff-laden guitars, prog metal beats, and Hollywood star
Jared Leto's soaring vocals and sci-fi lyrics, making it one of the more convincing actor-turned-rock star efforts. ~ Jon O'Brien