It would be impossible--and unfair--to expect The Matrix Reloaded to surpass the dizzying special effects, philosophical mind-twisters, and wicked sci-fi mayhem of the first Matrix movie. The same holds true for its soundtrack sequel which, like the original, sets an ominous atmosphere with industrial beats, in-your-face metal riffs, and supersonic computerized techno. Highlights include Linkin Park's swirling morass of scratches, stutters and keyboards; the grooves thrown down by Oakenfold and Fluke that party with the gloom of a burned-out factory; and Rob Zombie, P.O.D., and Marilyn Manson's explosive, brain-bending digi-rock. Unfortunately, for the most part, the dark patches of Reloaded plod rather than soar (the Deftones' murky "Lucky You"), and rehash tired ideas instead of creating new frontiers (an Oakenfold remix of Dave Matthews Band that sticks out like khaki pants at a goth club). Surprisingly monotonous, Reloaded is unfortunately yet another second act that pales in comparison to its predecessor. --Annie Zaleski
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