How does Muse get that sound?

I don't know how to explain it but it's like an electronic feel. Keyboards maybe. Lots of other groups use it but I'm just using Muse as an example. I'd love to know how to do it and what equipment I would need to buy to make it. It's like a spacey effect. Electronic artists use similar effects. So does U2, Radiohead, etc. Maybe you could point me in the right direction...