Parachutes, A Rush Of Blood To The Head, X & Y and Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends; need we say anymore? How about: Coldplay? The best British band right now – with four classic albums and more songs in the same vain that could already make up two ‘Greatest Hits’ L.P’s or at least a double disc. That’s not on the cards right now, however, as the band take inspiration from everything from old-school American graffiti to HBO hit show ‘The Wire’ for their latest album Mylo Xyloto. Are Jay-Z’s friends getting all hip and hop on us?
The answer to that is a simple no. They are just being themselves, as straight-forward and as boundary breaking as that is. Anyone doubting this band will have hell to pay now. Hurts Like Heaven is an epic track sent from that place that is primed for their atmospheric live shows, it’s already been well received at concerts. While the single Paradise sees Coldplay taking an upbeat lick out of the pages of MGMT, Empire Of The Sun and Mr. Hudson, this style-creating band still stick to their own script. Charlie Brown is also classic Coldplay, as lovable and as well-received as Snoopy. These dogs may have learnt a few new tricks, but it’s their signature sound that is making them old favourites by each classic album. Us Against The World is a beautiful, slow burner, which is further proof that Gwyneth Paltrow is a loved woman; it’s clear to hear that it is not just her current fever-based movie ‘Contagion’ that is catching on.
The single Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall is essential, sensational and pouring with the promise that the band have built on from years of potential. This is the single that shows the world that they’ve still got it after doing it all with Yellow, The Scientist, Fix You, Vida La Vida and whatever will come next. Major Minus and U.F.O. are also out of this world. Still, it’s Princess of China with the princess of R&B Rihanna that pushes the envelope and puts the band out of their bounds even further. It’s a great crossover collaboration born from Chris Martin and his band’s relationship and classic ‘Lost+’ remix with Jay-Z. What a find!
This album continues to burn brightly with Up In Flames, while A Hopeful Transformation is another inspired, instrumental, interlude break like M.M.I.X and the album-titled opener. Then a tandem of terrific tracks top off another triumphant album. With building, goose-pump inflicting guitar and vocals and lyrics to match and raise the hairs, you may have just heard your new favourite Coldplay with Don’t Let It Break Your Heart. Especially with lines like “When you’re tired of aiming your arrows/still you’ll never hit the mark/and even if your aims are shadows/still we’re never gonna part/come on baby, don’t let it break your heart.” The track then seamlessly, segues into the sublime Up With The Birds that truly takes off, the only thing that won’t be flying is this CD out your changer.
The neon graffiti theme on this album is brilliant, but the music is so much brighter than this that it should be engraved. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a first-time listener to the band, this album will make you fall in love with this band, even if it is all over again. Chris Martin was right, this concept love story really does have a happy ending.
Watch: Coldplay – Paradise
Preview: Coldplay – Mylo Xyloto
