Album

MK, Montreal
The most beautiful album I heard in years..It feeds my soul and can't get enough of it...A real masterpiece

samfish
really love music like this, we need inspiration!!! don't know why people like listening R&B kind of crap, meaningless

Sharmaine, US
I think coldplay triumphs again I have never seen a band so dedicated to making music and Every time I hear a song I can't get it out of my head, Its a great thing. So is coldplay.

Bianca , Hamburg
I only liked the parachutes and the 'a rush og blood to the head' album . I didnt like x+y particulalry but it seems like they have swung the gear a step back fro the last album before , and I like one or two of the latest songs again.

dave surrey
brian eno meets arcade fire

2.oKtObEr
I think that wos boring

Ana, Croatia
omg...I really love listen to Coldplay...when I hear they songs...i feel so refreshed...they are really amazing...Coldplay No.1. 4 ever

Imransyah,Makassar,Indonesia
I like this band,from parachuttes until Viva la Vida or death all his friend.Make it all chris martin...

mr. domitrio russia
i looooooooooooooooooooooooooooooovvvvvve this band as much as i love my sister, they are so amazing

Ana, Portugal
I didn´t like Coldplay...until now! Viva la Vida is a great album! We need albums like this, to mobilise us! To listen over and over again.

David
Annother wonderful and amazing album from one of the UK's biggest bands. This one is a masterpiece.

holly, wem, shropshire
i love coldplay i think it's an amazing album wicked!

Michael, Liverpool
Absolutely fantastic album: definitely worth the wait! Life in Technicolour, Death and All His Friends and Lovers In Japan will all sound amazing live, I cannot wait to see them live in Liverpool in December!

Tony, StPetersburg, Russia
Great album. I love their old songs and I love "Viva la vida". It's great to Coldplay guys in progress!

Ben Tyreman, Fuerteventura
I think this is thier best album yet! You need to listen to the entire album to truly appreciate it. Brain Eno is a genius, the way he creates soundscapes and merges the tracks together smoothly. To me this album is completley different to all the others, I think they are much less 'depressing' than they used to be, and the album has an happier, uplifting feel, and it's also very meloncony and poetic in bits. They are being slated a lot by people using old examples of what they used to sound like, just go out and buy the album, it's amazing!

Mariye Perez
Excellent "driving home from work" tune!Love it!

KD, Australia
A rich, vibrant album with plenty of variation, while still maintaining a certain new 'sound.'. Unfortunately , people who like their old album don't seem to like this one. Pity really, because it is an excellent album. If you don't think so? You don't really appreciate good music when you hear it, or you haven't listened to it properly yet.5/5

Laurence Windo, Gloucester, England
Coldplay are a band for our time: Reticent, unimaginative, safe and available to purchase in Tesco...(e)very little helps.

Dylan, Amsterdam
Some critics just don;t get the album.YOu hit it right on the money.

Hrvoje, Croatia
The best album of 2008 year!

hk
best album in 2008 so far

Micah
It's alright. Coldplay are alright. Their fans are cringeworthy.

Gav, Ireland
After a second listen(like all coldplay albums) I think its pretty good.Some songs are definitely radiohead(ish) and the hit song viva la vida reminds me of arcade fire.Overall 3.5 out of 5.

Celia, Spain
I love "Yes" and the album...superb, as always.

Joaquin Philippines
This is insane! You can clearly tell That coldplay is such a huge band from all the people coming from different countries..... I came here to get a review for VLV cause I dont have the cd yet. I heard the two singles violet hill and viva la vida on the radio and im pretty excited for the whole album! I think all coldplays albums are epic and are continuing to show! More and more fans are getting the coldplay sound! Infcat milllions more! I love coldplay and always will! Awesomeness! AMazing band oh well! From all the positive reviews ive been reading i guess VLV is amazing! Cant wait~!!!

Jaime - Buenos Aires -Arg.
Is it just me or most music you get these days is so worthless. However, I must say that I'm glad I've bought this album. I love the recordmaking aspect above all. I feel that this record offers a lot for many listenings, you can't get tired of it so soon. And again, I insist, seldom do I like nowadays music. Coldplay's Viva la Vida makes makes me come to terms with the status quo.

Brandon Watson
This album really grew on me...after listening to it for about a week now, I can say it is one of their best albums to date, only topped by A Rus hof Blood, of course. At first I was concerned that it didn't really 'sound' like the Coldplay I had known and loved. But after their last album, X & Y where the band played it too safe, I'm glad they branched out more with this one. I found myself comparing this album to Radiohead's Kid A album. Not because it sounded similiar, but because of the way it's experimentation seems to have divided listeners. All in all it's a great album, you can definately hear the influence of Arcade Fire, but that's not necessarily a bad thing though. I give it a 4.5 out of five.

dean wales
this band shouldnt be aloud to make music, they should be working in macdonalds.....

sarah, london
bland, middle-aged tosh. If this were a colour, it would be beige, and if it were a store, it would be marks and spencers.... music for people who hate music but want to look intelligent in front of their fat, balding colleagues. Coldplay are pretentious beyond belief. This is far from the great album they planned; this is boring soft-rock with studio-addded xylophones and violins. Big deal. Brian Eno, come back to your ambient works. You were gorgeous, and still can be.

abdo algeria
viva la vida is the best album in this year and who didn't like is simply he can't understand beauty

Juliana, Singapore
Basically, COLDPLAY RULE ThE WORLD!

Vijay, burton
Personally i prefer the theme from come septemeber

Andy S, Winchester
Great album, no doubt, but certainly not the best album ever. A lot of the tracks are too short, Martin's voice sounds limited at times (I'm not refering to the high pitches) and - no one seems to click - they're a very 'christian' band, even since 'Parachutes'. Would people still like them if they 'came out' and fully admitted this? Not by half. Evidence of this is in Martin's lyrics and even on the sleevenotes ('Lead me not into temptation' one scribble reads). Big deal, some people will think.Still, 'Lost!', 'Lovers In Japan' and Viva La Vida' are top notch, but I still think they've got a way to go before they top U2's stadium efforts of 'One', 'Where the streets have no name' and 'City Of Blinding Lights'.

Matt, London
Don't mind Coldplay and this isn't a bad album but give Elbow a crack if you haven't already. Non contest.

Ben, ldn
im sometimes baffled by peoples opinions on music, obviously every person has a different taste in music but i think what everyone says about the record whether they like it or not, the kind of miss the point just ever so slightly. From my point of view i personally think its the most honest album a band has made in a long time, i think they dropped the act of trying to write music for their fans and instead wrote music for themselves and whilst in a day and age where the integrity of a lot of new bands coming through the ranks can be questioned, i think coldplay hit the mark, they wrote an album that they wouldn't care if it sold millions and they had fun with it. its a shame because if bands ever feel like emulating the success of the beatles, the rolling stones and the likes then until bands start forgetting about the money then you won't produce a sincere album. After all you would think you would start a band because you loved music not because you wanted a huge house and fancy cars and i think coldplay forgot about the rewards that would come if they wrote big, huge, gigantic choruses and just wrote music for the fun of it. Obviously not everyone will agree with my point but thats peoples confering tastes

Sarah W
What can I say...track 7 along the motor way, full blast... thought my heart was going to fly out of the window!! Looking forward to the live version in Oslo later this year very much indeed!

Ayse, Turkey
I first heard viva la vida on the radio and wasn't impressed at all. but then i heard it again. and again. and again. and now i listen to nothing else but this new album of theirs. so all i can say is - don't give up and listen to these songs again and again till you recognize their melodic beauty. i especially love violet hill, 42 and viva la vida. 42 is just beautiful. i love colplay.

clare
i hav there cd it is amazing it might be a bit dark some of the songs but the rest are really good. so every one should buy it.

Gerard, Dublin
Album of the year. End of.

Ken, Aberdeen
Not any better than any of the others really. All a failry lame attempt at being U2. The difference is U2 knocked out a few good suntes in their time, Coldplay haven't. It's not unpleasant, just very very dull.

Di, Enzed
Haven't really been a Coldplay fan...but am now! Try playing Yes and Viva la Vida LOUD driving through a storm....

Johnny Oxford
It's such a shame that people cannot like music without the politics and familiarity of the Bands Status. If Viva la Vida had been released by an unknown band/artist, they would no doubt be rocketed to instant glory! It is a truely wonderful album that is both haunting at times and truly triumphant at others. Well done Coldplay.

Sushant, Delhi,India
Awesome album i'm die hard fan of coldplay was waiting for long time for their new album and I would say it was worth waiting,love the # Cemeteries of london and Strawberry swing. God Bless Them!Best Wishes for them and i'm sure they'll never stop giving me sweet surprises and to the World Music.

Laura, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Viva la Vida is a great album!!! Stop comparing it with other Coldplay albums or other bands. Just listen to it!!!!! Pure music, pure poetry...food for my soul!!!!

Jo Italy
A sonic soundscape of realised dreams

Anthony
gaz ur an idiot with a stupid name. This is by far a deep album their best yet. All of u who hate coldplay are morons who probably think that abba is deep and listen to church hymns and Mozart. Go to he'll.

g.l souljia
sik

Euan, Oxford
In reply to Jodie Coles:What has Neil's opinion got to do with the fact he's from Scotland?!And in reply to your question: Belle and Sebastian, Mogwai, Biffy Clyro, Franz Ferdinand etc.With regards to Coldplay, why does the UK celebrate such mediocrity? Chris Martin's lyrics are NOT genius but simple, vague, meaningless and often sound like a teenagers inital attempts at peotry. Musically they are verging on not being a band anymore but a over produced pop act. It is blatantly obvious to anyone with any shred of intelligence that they are a mass marketed product that has been created to be as bland as possible to try and save EMI.Musically there is only one word I can think of to describe Coldplay... BEIGE. Boring, conformative and indescript.

Alastair
Jodie of Minhead, what does nationality have to do with the debate about the quality of this turgid Coldplay album? Also, if you're on the subject of Scottish inspiration, look no further than the following: Alexander Graham Bell (invented the telephone) and John Logie Baird (invented the television) and Simple Minds - yes, Don't forget about me, East of Easter et al are better than anything Coldplay have penned. Coldplay are fine as a band but please do not label them as geniuses. Chris Martin writes a good chorus but his melodies are basic and overly repetitive, vocal range limited and he is half the musician of say Jeff Buckley, James Taylor, Doug Pinnick, Hendrix, John Mclaughlin, etc. Coldplay is music for people with limited musical knowledge and punters using the bathroom in service stations. That's fine and has it's place but please do not label this as genius or inspirational as this insults those of us that do know something about music. If this is really inspirational to you, you must have a very, very small CD collection. This is banality in extremis.

Aidan, Horsham
At first, I was doubtful if VLV would live up to the high standards of its predecessors. Coldplay have set the bar of musical standards very high. The new album took a while to get into but it grows on you with every listening. I listen to a lot of classical music and Coldplay are one of the few rock bands whose music affects me in similar ways - Talk Talk are another. They have great gifts for experimenting with musical ideas yet at the same time can produce great tunes that stick around in your mind. Good for them and may the fine work continue!

Sanyo, Manchester
Hmm, this one has obviously split everyone down the middle. In my opinion people who dont like this record can split into the following groups a)people who liked their early records but dont like experimentation b)people who have good taste but dont want to like Coldplay as they are uncool c)People who dont have a good taste in music d)People who havent listened to it properly or more than once. People who do like this record are either a)people who will lap up anything coldplay do without question or b)People who have listened without prejudice to VLV more than once and let it sink into their brain properly the way any good album should.....Anyway i hope i fall into the latter category, this album is pure class. I thought parachutes was good, Rush of Blood was Very Good, X & Y was treading water but they have definitely made their best album yet with this one. I think it was on the 3rd listen when 'Lost' really stood out and gave me serious goosebumps. I also really like 42, Lovers In Japan, VLV, Death & All His Friends too but i have to say 'Strawberry Swing' has come from being the most average song on the album on 1st listen to one of my favourite songs of all time now, very clever production on that one Mr Eno. Some people have criticised the lyrics on this album but lets be honest deep lyrics have never been what Coldplay is about. If you have been lucky enough to witness any of their Glasto headline sets you will know its all about the perfect match of harmony and Chris's vocals creating a communal feelgood vibe. The lyrics have got better on this record (if only slightly) but the songwriting and production are far more consistent than on their previous work which is why there are so many people praising this record. For anyone who has only casually listened or people who are unsure with so many bad reviews around my advice is to listen to it once a week for 3 weeks on the trot and you will be hooked.

Gary, Surrey
thought X&Y Was the last... anyway Superb album, possibly their best yet

Amrit, Varanasi,India
Fine. Not awesome or goundbreakin. The experiment is a success now they shud stop it.

Stuart Denney, Chelmsford UK
Well... I've been a Coldplay fan since they started and I was really looking forward to this release. However, I am so so disappointed with the end product. Chris Martin's voice is distinct in tone. However, he has never been a technically gifted singer. With the technology available to them and Eno's ear (considering the long wait for the album) I would have expected a better delivery. Yet there are more notes that are flat than on the previous two albums... (Just in case you think I can't count - most of the singing was spot on on Parachutes.) - Further evidence that even without money if you write the songs that suit your vocal range, the rest will follow...I could just about live with the flat notes on albums 2 and 3 because of the strength of the songs.No matter what their ambitions are with this album, there is no excuse for poor performance. Something I'm growing so tired of with all the bands of today. I guess in that sense they are hugely influential because so many bands are now sounding like Coldplay spin-off's and also singing out of key.The biggest disappointment for me has to be the lyrics. Most of which could have been written in a 5 year olds poetry lesson. I think as a standard, the media and artists themselves often claim their is a deep meaning behind some of these songs and because as a society we are so scared to appear stupid, we actually jump on the band wagon and say "Oh yeah, I can see that" - a bit like modern art. I.e. "You thought you might be a ghost, you didn't get to heaven but you made it close!". That is an absolute cop-out. There is no way that someone writing lyrics like that can be considered GENIUS!The mix of the album is also really disappointing for an Eno-project. If you consider the material he put out with Bowie in the late 70's. However, it just goes to show you can't polish a t*rd! Music has always been about the songs. If you can't write them you should be in a pub performing Karaoke.I do like the fact that they tried to bring new instruments to the table. However, once again with the time and cash in hand, they could have done a lot more! I noticed that the strings were maily performed by Davide Rossi. I did suspect that they had all been overdubbed because of the lack of feel in most of the string hooks. Viva La Vida itself is a prime example. For the most part the strings sounds very dry in the mix (Almost like a synth), the only thing that gives it a live feel is the fills later in the song which add to the vocal melody. This is another utter disappointment. I mean how can such a poorly produced/recorded album take so long... The whole point of a string-section is surely it's ambience?Jonny Buckland's guitar hooks are usually another driving force behind the songs. However, in songs such as 42 and Death And All His Friends the guitar lines offer nothing fluid. They are repeated too much with no further layering apart from maybe a tambourine hit each bar. How inventive! I also might add that apart from in Chinese Sleep Chant where it works perfectly, the vocals are too quiet in the mix. An old-hand trick is being able to hear the vocals clearly over everything else if you go into a different room. Maybe they should have tried this whilst mixing the album that has got to save their record company?!?! I mean this is meant to be important stuff...A lot of Avant-Garte/Beatles comparisons on here also. There are only a few songs with Avant-Garte structures on this album and in-doing so they sacrifice melody. I wouldn't say that is anything to shout about. Comparisons to The Beatles are disgraceful. Considering they recorded 2 albums a year, sung in tune, their songs had melodies, their mixes were spot on and whilst being original they never compromised quality.They managed to layer their recordings much more effectively using a 4-track tape recorder over a six month period, whilst touring and recording films. They also experimented with other cultures, recording technologies on a regular basis. I.e. th

Amy Rawe
I'm going to be hearing it a lot, aren't I? But hey, why complain- they could have done a lot worse. The album as a whole might seem to have a similar sound, but listening to it a few times points out the subtle differences (other than the melancholy/rock switch in 42). And being a music student, I know how hard it is to write a halfway decent song- let along 11 fantastic ones. Viva la Coldplay!

bob, london
totally awesome!!!

mark london
usual boring drivel by the group & their fans.

Sujash Islam, Dhaka
I think they are just awesome! Chris Martin's voice is just more than what one can expect!

Shulav- Nepal
I think this album grows on you. I liked the first four tracks instantly though...but i still believe that Parachutes and Rush of Blood..is their best album..being a coldplay fan all i can say is la viva coldpaly......

Nova Scotian1
With the exception of the terribly lacklustre X&Y, I think Coldplay make solid albums, and their latest is probably their best. I'm especially looking forward to seeing these songs brought to life on stage...

Mnl, Italy
Definitely non that masterpiece everybody was waiting for. This album is really average. Stop hailing to them and let's start to look for the next big thing.

roop, scotland
i love coldplay, always have and always will. Yhis album, yet again is amazing

Karim
Let's just say they've come a long way from singing about the colour yellow.Viva La Vida has achieved what X&Y always yearned for: orchestral, obstreperous GENIUS.

Martin, Leeds
Another great album...I don't understand all the negative comments, this is beatiful melodic music...put your headphones on ,lay back, close your eyes & enjoy...can't wait to see the band live in manchester in december.

nick
coldplay just produce flawless albums. like somebody else said, i cant really find a song of theirs which i dislike.they are all brilliant. easily, EASILY the best band of this century. Better than U2 who make 98 different albums (obviously you're going to produce a few good songs) and radiohead who are just a noise.i hope coldplay never retire, absolutely amazing band and the new album is superb.love violet hill.

Sanford, London
Coldplay are a one hit wonder who manged to fool us all into thinking this would be only the beginning and the backlash is warranted, as we are all left feeling empty and disappointed by the mediocrity they have aspired to. Coldplay just get more mediocre with every album and this CD should be consigned to the dustbin of musical history. This is the end of Coldplay. They will not be able to come back from two Turkeys in a row, (and we thought x&y was bad).

kris cook ,newcastle
i like coldplay because of the songs what coldplay is my flavour song and i keep hearing it on the radio.

jodie coles, minhead somerset
a reply to neils message, from scotland. Coldplay are a hugely influencial band, their lyrics meaning somethimg that everyone can relate to. Show me what Scotland has thrown at us with any outstanding quilities such as theirs???

Maria Rilke
READ STEVEN's comment. After reading most of the big name music reviewers of viva la vida, that guy's comment is the one that makes the MOST SENSE.

Tony, Derry
I think all you people should listen to some Beck if you wanna hear awesome music that aint safe. He's a genius, listen to Lonesome tears from Sea Change and you will see how far short the average Coldplay really are

Mia Surrey
After listening to the last minutes of the 'rush of blood to the head' album, i never thought that coldplay could surpass the piano driven sound sound of 'politik,' or equally the soft melody of 'the scientist.' But, although i admit, at first i hated 'viva la vida,' and was unsure of 'violet hills,' i slowly came to like the album as whole. Chris martin and co have experimented with different sounds and beats, and my god has it paid off. I love '42', 'Lost,' 'Yes,' and 'lovers in japan,' all i can say is that it DOES grow on you. This is not the young coldplay we are listening to, instead a band that has progressed so well enough to rightly deserve the two no.1 hits. Avid coldplay fans will adore this new piece or art, and new listeners will slowly be converted; Coldplay bring something new to the table, but at the same time, they never stray too far away from their original sounds / roots. viva la coldplay!

Jon Champion, Hemel Hempstead, Age 13
Coldplay produce such spellbinding material which changes after every album unllike stereophonics who because they kept producing the same sound have now dissapeared off the face of the earth. Parachutes was very folky and new and bought a new genre of music to the public eye. A Rush Of Blood To The Head was far more rock orientated and raw, X & Y was a very overwhelming and different and now leaving us with this astonishing album Viva La Vida or Death And All His Friends which incorporates new use of instruments such as the drum and bell spectacle in Viva La Vida and the electronic keyboard used in Lovers In Japan. Their sound is always changed and experimented as with their lyrics. Each album tells a story always in a different and original way and that is a sign of a truly phenominal band.

susan, barbados
very revealing album.Be very careful.

wippet, a town
Peoples comparisons to U2, Beatles and even Blur are laughable. C'mon most of you don't know good music if hit in you in the face. Open your ears, and your hear elements of my bloody valentine jesus and the mary chain, not gash like U2, buts thats as far your musical knowledge goes. Comeercial crap. It grates me that people don't discover good music instead of popular drivel that you hear 20 times a day. 8/10

John Caracas Venezuela
I wrote the words below last Thursday on another website, two days after receiving VLV:"Not only a fantastic album, music-wise (although I often hear the Edge's guitar, eg.: "Death and all his friends" at 3:39) but the theme iof "42" s so important! It's actually made me, a dyed-in-the-wool sceptic, think that, as Chris Martin says "there must be something more". I received the record on Tuesday and, according to i-Tunes, had played "42" 26 times between 8 and 4:00 on Wednesday morning! Superb. I´m 61, I remember the same excitement when I listened for the first 50 times to Rubber Soul, Abbey Road, Miles Davis' Kind of Blue, Blonde on Blonde, the Division Bell.Plant said: "The best thing you can do now, is trade a smile with someone who's blue now"Lennon said: "Imagine all the people.."Dylan said: "How many roads must a man walk down.."Martin says: "Those who are dead are not dead, they're just living in my head"Martin and his chums are, for me, now up there with the very greatest of the last 40-odd years."OK, today's Friday of the following week, exactly, to the hour, 10 days into VLV. I-Tunes now tells me I have accumulated 679 listenings of the 10 tracks = 68 on average, just shy of 60 hours' total listening! I've burned 15 copies for friends and family, and I cannot listen to anything else.Most of the commentators above seemed to have missed the metaphysical element.I can only heap praise on Eno and the lads. If they need a middle-aged salesman I'm their man.

Sam Hill New Zealand
HI there Im Sam and im a musician, played piano for 9 years and bass for 2 and guitar religiously for several years, I have been a Coldplay fan since their beautiful melodic tunes first reached my ears. I absolutly love X&Y and Parachutes, to be honest ive never found a song of theirs i havnt liked, untill the new album. All previous albums have been musically and vocally catchy and popy enough to relax and sing along to and just drift off to. However the only song that maintains this level of musicianship and captivity is VIOLET HILL. I counted down the days for the release of viva la vida and i have to say im sadly disappointed with it. I still love coldplay but ill have to say sorry guys this new album doesnt uphold your previous works of art. I hope that this latest album is just a tempoary mishap and that youll continue to work and produce similar material as to that you have released previously.

K-Man, Dublin
Largely muck - did not really like this album. Nothing special.

Andrew - Chesterfield
Every track is amazing in fact some are so good they send a shiver down my neck as did Fix You VIVA LA VIDA

Ben Evans, Anfield
Best Song Ever Viva La Vida

Amanda, Minnesota
Coldplay has been my favorite band since Parachutes came out back in 2000. They continue to impress me. I love Chris Martin's smooth chill voice. Fave songs from Viva la Vida: Yes and Strawberry Swing. Can't wait to go to the concert on November 14th!!

tigerfu
if i can conque coldplay,i may ruld the world~

Taymour, Egypt, Cairo
wonderful album by all the meanings, its been a long time since i've listened to an album like this, i adore each song, each word, each single tempo in this Albumits my favouritethank u Coldplay u really made my life (L)

Pekka, Finland
Damn awesome album.

Kirk, Maidstone.
This is a great album. I feel it will stand up as their best.However, I know all music takes influence from others, but how come NOBODY here has noticed that :Parts of "Yes" sound almost EXACTLY like The Velvet Undergrounds "Venus In Furs". (The violins, key changes etc..)"42"'s beginning has "Imagine"'s chords."Reign Of Love" takes melody directly from Sting's "Fields Of Gold". But is lovlier.As I said - great album - but I can't believe ALL the music fans here missed on the blatant "Yes" / V.U. rip.

Ariel Mexico
Different but CP still there Amazing album

Brendan, Co. Donegal (Ireland)
Coldplay have tweaked their sound just a little for this album. Their last album X&Y was good but too safe at times (Fix you, hardest part, Talk). Having listened to Viva La Vida 5 or 6 times now I think it's a very good album. There's definitely hints of Arcade Fire, U2 (Eno influence), John Lennon/Beatles and even Blur on one of the songs (Yes) on this album. Chris Martin's lyrics are just a bit too vague at times. It seems to me he is trying too hard to write great songs e.g. Viva la vida, Cemetries of London and is coming up short. However to criticise him on his songwriting is just too harsh as there are not too many bands out there nowadays that can write deep and meaninful songs. Coldplay still have great potential even after this 4th album but need to play it a bit less safe in the future to be regarded and remembered as a great band.8 out of 10 for this album. 'Rush of blood to the head' is a better album than 'Viva la vida' in my opinion

Gina, Eshim, Jasmin
El oh el.You lot suck. [=

tom, DARLO
yes

Neil Scotland
God I really hate Coldplay. They are tosh.Full stop. No redeeming features. They are symptomatic of what is wrong with modern songwriting. Souless muzak. Put it another way. They are awful. Can not bring myself to listen to their new album as I have heard snippets and it is the same as all the other hogwash they heve made. Coldplay.A band for peole who don't like music.

Richard, Manchester
It's quite a brave album in many ways and, for my money, their most mature offering to date. I particularly love the sentiment expressed in Death..., that really talks my language and there aren't many bands that will write in 7/8, let alone put lyrics on top of that. The play-out gives it a concept album feel and, like many of these types of records, the rewards are aplenty from repeated listenings. Well done to the band for taking some bold musical steps and not being afraid to go outside the verse/chorus/verse format.

gary,exeter
how diverse is this band,it just gets better and better.tremendous.an album just full of quality....lost is pure magic

Bassant, Cairo, Egypt
Absolutely a new version of coldplay a very different album than their old ones, yet magical and that is why they are still unique, Viva Coldplay....Strawberry swing, 42 are awesome

Dan, Suffolk
Coldplay constantly have critics, but continously prove them wrong. Amazing band, brilliant live and this is there best yet without question. Cemetries of London, 42, Lovers in Japan....brilliance. I accept people dislike them but don't just listen to the singles and judge their music. There is so much more than Yellow and Fix You.

Ian Liverpool
Coldplay luved there fist 2 albums!...but they bore me now to death,every album sounds the same...shame cos he had got a fab voice!!

Ann London
This is not a rip off from another song.Creakyboards have back tracked their statement and admit they were wrong . There was proof of that, coldplay wrote the song long before Creakyboards performed it and the date he reckoned chris martin was at his so called performance, chris martin was actually at the air studio at the time with witnesses to prove it. As for the album, i think it's great and i enjoy it and i don't really care what the nay sayers say. I think what someone said on a prvious post was right, if the album had been recorded by someone else it would have different reviews. Coldplay don't get unbiased, true reviews any more.

ray brummie
its absolutely splendid and fine im lost in my own little world where people are safe, respect each other no matter what colour or religon and life is full and meaningfull every time i listen to possibly the best band in the world today for middle aged romantics like me! thats my opinion anyway like it or lump it

Rahul, Delhi, India
I dont mind the odd track but for me there is something missing with coldplay. Martin get me annoying at times with his whining.Biggest band in world does not mean bestThey dont rockI prefer U2 and Oasis

Canada
i have been waiting for this new album to come out for a while now and i absolutely love 3/4 of the album. it may not have the catchy "fix you", actually i take that back, viva la vida has potential to do as well or better thjan fix oyu, and the scientist. however this album is a different type of brilliant. ballads such asa 42 and death and all his friends are beautifully writtian and get inside you. the on;y critisism i can offer for the album is songs 5, and 6, reign of love and yes doesn't appeal to ME, however i know many people who love them, proving once again that coldplay appeals to so many people. 42 is my favorite song because it changes so much within, by the message stays the same and for me personally i can relate to both parts, and although it is seperate it can be seen as a whole as well. Bottom line, i love the new album, to move forward, is to move toward wisdom.

Lynne, Scotland
For me, the success of a coldplay album, particulalry x&y lies in the incredible base and otherworldy background synth, creating a blanket of sound, because granted, Martin is not the best singer in the world. But what an incredible mix of sound. Becoming too lyrical is not really necessary. Its the merging of different sounds that do it for me - the lyrical content is irrelevant, its the tone of the voice merged with the melody - same reason I love Radiohead (although I am confused with their latest album). Anyway, so far I am enjoying viva la vida. Favourite track at the moment is Lost! I think maybe Violet Hill is trying to sound like ELBOW. With Elbow its all about the voice and the lyrics.....completely different.

sarah
VIVA LA VIDA is a rip off of another song. thinkn the original was by a band called the 'squeaky floorboards' or something similar. anyway this is not an original song.

Stuart Halpin (London,Ireland)
Lovers In Japan & Strawberry Swing absolute great tracks. What a album... The BEST yet!!!

dean wales!
Regarding the last comment put on....... you talk about recognising good music, if you recognised good music yourself you wouldnt be listening to coldplay, you'd be listening to something like pearl jam or counting crows.L8r

Dan, Canada
First time I heard "X & Y" I was overwhelmed. "Viva la Vida" didn't have that instant impact for me. But now I've listened to it several times, I think it's amazing. Most of the critics on this site and elsewhere would be praising the album to the skies if it wasn't for all the baggage that the name "Coldplay" now carries.

Tom, Southampton - UK
As a complete Coldplay fanatic I have been waiting for so long for the new album to come out, especially after predicted dates last summer were for January! I first felt almost disappointed as yes it was a different Coldplay but the more I listened the more I love it. Coldplay are brave to try and experiment when they have already found the way to sucess before. The new album is brilliant, with songs that are a great blend of instruments and the other great instrument - Chris Martin's voice!Just dont be put off at first, like all Coldplay songs it takes a few listenings to fully appreciate how well structured their music is..... Oh and for a band that so many people seem to dislike... isnt it amazing that they seel so many albums? - let out the Coldplay within.

elly, california
awww. the critisism hurts me. heh. i suppose there was a noticeable effort for coldplay to change in a way, but for true coldplay fans, we love coldplay for coldplay and all they got to dish out for us. i admit, viva la vida...and X&Y...nah, i dont admit. for those simpler minded follies who believe that this album is complete blashpemy, im glad you enjoyed the first two. and yes, i agree that they could have done plenty well without Eno's influence. i'd really rather they set off without him and let him do his own sh*t. but coldplay got more serious. i think what they're trying to do is instead of reaching in there, and grabbing everything [like the first two albums] they decided to reach OUT THERE and grab as much as possible. know what i mean? probably not. but...it's an album that does grow on you quickly, fanatic or not. however, recognizing good music is not something you're told to do, or taught to do either. whether you obtain the ability or not is no concern of mine. =) we all have our opinions. no need to say this masterpiece is crap.

MARIELLA, BRUINO, ITALY
I THINK THE SOUND IS MAGIC. MANY SONGS START SLOWLY, THEN INCREASE THE RHYTHM AND AT THE END CHANGE AGAIN IN A NEW MELODY. IT'S A GREAT ALBUM. DON'T STOP AND GO ON AS YOU HAVE DONE. BRAVISSIMI

Stuart, London
Absolute tripe! Worst album they have done. Such a shame

Blerim, Prishtina
Splendid album! "Yes" it is!

DTMB, USA
While Parachutes and A Rush were truly incredible, Viva really takes no chances. The influence of Eno tries to elevate Coldplay to the same plane as Radiohead, but Radiohead they are not. When I think of music that "dives into the unknown" I think of My Bloody Valentine's "Loveless." Viva reaches beyond it's grasp, and surprisingly, comes up short of X & Y.

Andy, Cornwall
Utter Bilge from a tripe band. Dreadful lyrics, comical singing...

Kathy Barrington Il
I can't stop listening to Viva La Vida It really has me hooked. I just wish I could understand what the lyrics really mean. If anyone knows please help me.

Martin Milner, New Jersey, USA
It's my first Coldplay album so apart from exposure to singles such as "Speed of Sound" (which I loved) I came to the album as a relative "newbie." As many commentators are saying, I had to listen to the disc a number of times but each time revealed something a little bit different, a little more interesting and I soon began to love the layered aural landscapes that the band was creating for me. My favourite tracks are "Lost", "42", "Reign of love", "Viva la Vida", "Violet Hill" and "Death and all his friends", which must constitute more than 3/4 of the album. "Reign of love has a beautiful rhythm and sound with more than a hint of hymn music and "Death and all his friends" has a pulsing beat and uses instruments that I love to hear. All in all I have to say that I am very happy with the album and would love to hear the tracks live in an auditorium somewhere. I would have preferred, however, that Martin and his cohorts had included the lyrics within the packaging, which is probably the weakest part of the offering.

Jenny, Scotland
I think this album is amazing! I can't stop listening to it! Lost and Yes stand out most to me! Think its their best album to date.

Chris, USA
After Parachutes and A Rush... it took me a while to actually hear X & Y, to let it in, because it was so different from what I was expecting. Viva has so many external influences, predominantly due to Eno producing, and I think that's why this album lacks more of the primary ingredient that made the first three albums so great - Martins' piano. It's there, but it really leaves you wanting more. Personally, I think they could have done without the Eno influence. There are a number of places in this album that called to mind the Brian Reitzell (also former member of Roxy Music) produced soundtrack to Lost In Translation, not to mention the obvious shades of Radiohead. It's a good album, but it'll take some time to fully appreciate it on it's own merits.

Blaad.
Thee best Album of the month. (:

David, Southampton England
I'd heard this was going to be a super commercial album. What a brilliant surprise - there's nothing remotely commercial about the content. Let's be honest, people talk about Coldplay being a global superpower before X&Y - that's simply not true. It took the commercial sound of that album to spark the big time here and in the US.There's no doubt that this is a different sound and their success has allowed them the confidence to use intrumental tracks and write an album as opposed to a selection of singles. There's a magical sound that runs throughout that reminds me of Sigur Ros. Now replace the icelandic gnome sound and add Chris Martin's voice!Life In Technicolour is an example of the above and so to the beautiful Reign of Love. Some say this album is still a formula...hmm I think 42 proves that wrong. And as for old fashion Coldplay Lovers In Japan hits the spot. Fans of X&Y, Viva La Vida should appease you, as well as the stonking Violet Hill. Like Dandy Warhols - look no further than Yes. And for the optimists and U2 fans - Strawberry Swing is a joy.And they finish as they start - The Escapist - yes more Sigur Ros! Yippee! If your a fan of pop music and like big singles that you can jump up and down to forget it. If you're a serious music fan however you'll find this an interesting and worthwhile ride. Not old Coldplay, nor new Coldplay but something different and JUST as good!

Fahad (former die-hard fan of Coldplay)
To make it short...Coldplay's worst: Viva la VidaIt's so unimaginative and reliant on sonic tricks (thanks but no thanks, Eno). At least X&Y was catchy enough to grow on some people. Nevertheless, "Yes" is possibly my fav track on the album.Nothing will ever live up to AROBTTH, people need to understand that.I totally agree with Peter: "Hmm not sure what to say but underwhelmed is a start, i don't really like this or the last album, why do bands always have to try and reinvent themselves i liked them because of their musical style in their first 2 albums i can't see what was wrong with that. I guess i'll to wait till the next album maybe they'll go back to the way they were."

Dave P.
If this masterpiece was released by Bono and Co, all those sellouts "critics" would have rated it 5 stars and saying "album of the year"

Rich Hirsch, Robertsbridge
Crap. Never heard worse. But the lead singer it HOT!

Sandro, south of Brazil
nice album. not really different than its predecessors, but a nice album yet. sometimes it sounds like Arcade Fire, sometimes U2. but it's still Coldplay in the core. Martin's voice is amazing.

Sunil, Slough
Coldplay is as good as it gets - checkout this comparative playlist.... do you agree?1. Viva La Vida = Eleanor Rigby (The Beatles - cf edgy violins).2. 42 = Imagine (John Lennon - cf hypnotic piano).3. Life in Technicolour = I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For (U2 - cf sonic build up of track).4. Lovers in Japan = With or Without You (U2 - cf sinuous base line).5. Strawberry Swing = Ticket to Ride (The Beatles - cf stuttering drum line).....listen and see for yourself.

craig oz
i haven't heard this album yet... am very curious and just not sure if EMI deserves my $20 while there's so many great indie bands to support. i think coldplay's first two albums were brilliant and then along came x&y which was just uninspired crap, i'm guessing it was their 'difficult second album', with lyrics like "the future's for discovering", "under the surface trying to break through" and "you cut me down a tree, and brought it back to me" i realised that life had become too easy for mr.martin... because in my opinion they are really crappy lyrics, musically i don't have a huge problem with it. and as far as comparisons are concerned, we're living in a postmodern globalized world... everything's a rainbow swirl these days, just becasue you're not aware of the influences doesn't mean thy're not there (and yes, i realise that some music is just a carbon copy). sorry, all the previous ranting got me going.my question is - does anyone share my opinion of the first 3 albums, and if so what do you think of viva?

Ian, Leeds
Just listening to the album now. I love viva la vida, strawberry string, Lovers, violet hill and death and all his friendsThe rest im not sure about...but i admit most songs are growing on me.I think this is better than X & Y and as good as parachutes but not as good as AROBTTH.

Nick Evans
Honestly the most stand out aspect of this album is the overwhelming use of different instruments. They pulled the time honored Beatles trick of adding foreign instruments to the mix in hopes of creating a new sound. Just like the Beatles i think Coldplay hit the spot. The more intricate songs show how much Martin and Co. have evolved musically. Even though the songs aren't as catchy as some of their earlier genius, the individual tracks do grow on you. I will end up LOVING this album, i know it.

Todd, Canada
Viva La VidaThe hook for me on this album are all the subtle hints of other cultural influences. Some of the hand clapping sounds as though it should be accompanying a flamenco guitar, and there are other subtle hints that sound middle eastern, african and asian in origin as well.I also like the general feel and texture of the songs.There were a couple of points where it feels as though they were slapping me in the face with the Beatles, (which isn't a bad thing) namely with the arrangement of the strings and arpeggiated sections on some songs, but I found more of a likeness to Peter Gabriel or Phil Collins from the boys on this album.Strawberry Swing places clearly asian influenced guitar loops over a beat that belongs in the heat of Africa, for a strange effect, but kind on the ears as well.Songs like "Life in Technicolor" made me think of Sigur Ros, filtered through a computer and run in reverse for a haunting effect (as if that's not haunting enough). It gives me the general feel of songs like "Joga" from Bjork. Long story short, I hear Iceland in that track. The main criticism that I have for the album is that it felt rushed in certain areas, and coming in at just over 45 mins, I think I'm right in that opinion. X&Y had a seemless quality to it, and Viva la Vida felt broken up in certain parts. It took away from the overall effect in my opinion.High marks to Coldplay though. 4.5/5 in my opinion. Good job.

me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I love it!

Barry, Bedford
Overall not bad but the album does suffer with a couple of filler tracks.

stefano,italy
AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

justin
the constant comparison to u2 is grating at me.I think if you are gonna make any comparisons it should be to blurs transition from indie pop to experimental genius,and it looks like coldplay are going to take the same path and in my opinion undoubtedly succeed.Not that this album sounds anything like blur but i think the approach to the music is comparable.Chris martin has proved himself as a brilliant songwriter time and time again not just with his own work but songs written for other artists(jamelia,nelly furtado).Another comparison i could make is to radioheads ok computer in the fact that this album is a journey,a rollercoaster of emotion.All this talk of comparisons is trivial and nauseating as coldplay are a force in theyre own right so i'll stop using that word.By the way im not a die hard coldplay fan but this album is great

Liam, Australia
How can you say that, this album is there deepest by far yet. Absolutely amazing, i love the track Reign of Love. Over the years Coldplay have been trying to distance themselves from other, "Rock" bands by being different, and in this new album they have achieved that. I still cannot believe the way that critics viewed X&Y. I thought that was brilliant. I have not yet heard a Coldplay song that I dislike. Keep up the good work guys. :)

Kate Kay, Singapore
I am no material to be critic, but this week I can't go to sleep without playing this album at least once... It's a great album!

Erik - Eugene, OR, USA
There were many opportunities for me to preview tracks to Viva La Vida. All of the negative and differing opinions toward the album before its release was a bit upsetting. I really wanted to force myself to view VLV with an unbiased opinion. I thank myself for doing that. Coldplay has created an album that is both a sonic and emotive masterpiece.

Maggie O.
As an obsessed coldplay fan, when i heard that this album may not be fantastic I was heartbroken. But when I heard it for myself I realized they were wrong. Some of the songs were especially touching to me. Death and all his friends had a comforting feel to it. And Strawberry Swing has an amazing beat. You can tell these guys focused on every note on this album and wouldn't release it until it was perfect. For anyone to say that this work of art was anything but spectacular is appalling to me. I respect this band very much because they are people to look up to. They also are inspired by the Beatles, who are the greatest musicians who ever lived in my opinion. This obviously worked in their advantage. Overall, the songs may not be as catchy as the ones they have previously released, but the album was evidence of how their song-writing has evolved and how the band has changed over the years.

Ade
Great album!

Christian, USA
Who gives a eff what the music critiques write. What it comes down to is: "If you like it, great, if not, don't listen to it." Much like wine, you can talk and analyze and write, but in the end, the best wine is always the one YOU like best not that one that costs the most or is ratest the highest by the critiques.

Andy, Birmingham
Well, I heard Viva la Vida on the itunes ad and knew I had to get the album. And am very glad I did, as it is one of the most beautiful records I've heard in a long time. Apple clearly put the most instantly appealing song on the advert, but as many others have suggested, it is the songs which require a few runs through before they start to catch you that really make this album a winner for me. And the way they work together! Death and all his friends, Lost, 42 - all great on their own, but it's what they mean collectively that makes this album stand out. A fine achievement.

Darral, Manchester
If you listen to it once and hate it, listen again and listen good, for you will be turned.

Peter
Hmm not sure what to say but underwhelmed is a start, i don't really like this or the last album, why do bands always have to try and reinvent themselves i liked them because of their musical style in their first 2 albums i can't see what was wrong with that. I guess i'll to wait till the next album maybe they'll go back to the way they were

H, Sydney
ok.....No1. - aawwesome album!!!!! No.2 - aawwesome album!!!!!!!!! No.3- did I mention awesome album???all you idiots who are worryin about how SUBLIME coldplay's music is...it doesnt take a rocket scientist to chuck in a couple of cool words to make their review sound professional. Real music can't be explained well enough...and coldplay is real music. Needless to say that I found all your reviews lengthy and time consumin when u could've just said one of 2 things.....I LOVED IT!!!orCOLDPLAY SUCK!!!!! (I definitely agree with the former)and to all you other idiots who keep saying Coldplay's borin....Just get a life and you'll know what Viva la Vida means..Coldplay rule....Viva la Vida rules......Viva la new album!!!!!!!!!!!

Bret Carter. Chineham Basingtoke.
so Maca, you recon this album is a massive dissapointment, well mate ,you are another planet.! it's their best album so far, i hated X &Y it was too heavy for my liking , but VIVA LA VIDA is just brilliant. Love the violins on some of the tracks, a couple of tracks are poor but overall a very good album, nice one Colplay.!

tony D, Sydney
Various critics were quick to chastise the new Coldplay album - 'Viva La Vida as posing nothing terribly new and earth shattering from the band. I suspect they've only listened to the album a handful of times. To begin with the album contains beautifully subtle production on a number of tracks that only resonates after a concentrated listening. Specifically take a close listen to 'Strawberry Swing'. A beautifully subtle song with great discordant tension (in the strings) that promises so much and delivers because it doesn't climax into the melieu of the previous album. This same exacting premise can be foundin 'Reign of Love' , 'Viva La Vida', 'Death and all His Friends' and 'Life in technicolour'. I suspect Mr Eno has a lot to answer for with this great result. Sure, the remainder of the album does have a familiar ring to it in a U2 /Arcade Fire/poppy Cure (when Dr Bob went commercial) kind of way. I can't think of three better bands to pay a quick homage. Everyone knows that modern music forms tend to be fairly homogenous. That is the defining simulacra of pop/rock in general. You could argue that Arcade Fire can lay some of their influence from the NZ band The Chills and their eponymous album 'Submarine Bells', plus The Cult, The Cure, The Dears and others. What Coldplay has done is created a collection of songs that sounds and plays out like an old fashioned album (pre itunes) with a journey: a beginning middle and end. In a world where the single seems to determine success (thanks Mr Apple... - *^#&W) it's enlightening to return to a good ‘old fashioned’ album (perhaps this is a Gen X thing?). More than anything though, I suspect the band had their minds firmly engaged with their ambition of their live tour. Live music is the greatest marketing tool for the modern band. Given the nature of the online world and the readjustment of costs, the live world has grown in stature and great importance. In many parts of the world bands both old and new generate a large portion of their income and goodwill from touring. Hence, imagine ‘Viva La Vida’ as a live experience and you'll understand why Coldplay will continue to be branded one of the biggest bands in the world.

Jon, London Town
Where did it all go wrong, Chris? Three of you made Parachutes, one of the best albums of all time and this ... well ... with all the help from masters, a smattering of greatness, the rest, dramatic tripe. Sorry, "the best band in the world" you aint. Listen again to Rush of Blood ... and Parachutes for the doubters. Enough said.

Dips, Northampton
I can't get Strawberry Swing out of my head! Agree at first glance or listen I felt a little sad that my world hadn't been rocked like the previous albums did, but the more you listen, the more you allow yourself to accept this is something new and worth listening to! Well done Coldplay.......now back to the Strawberry Swing song!!!

Rupert, London
agree with first comment on page. there are a number of album fillers on this cd. with previous albums every track was a world beater. very dissapointing.i'm a big fan of eno, but i don't think a tie up with coldplay was the right move.

Hakim, Malaysia
they're trying new things, we shud be proud of what they did, obviously thts what we called a musician, experimental sumthg new. viva la vida is a great album. if u like to judging on what they wrote, why dont u record ur own album?

Keith, Germany
It is quite clear that some music critics have written a negative draft of their review before they've heard the album and fill in the gaps with the song titles while they are (half-)listening to it the first time. Light some candles, pour yourself a glass of wine, turn up the volume, lie back and enjoy for goodness sake. Maybe then you'll appreciate this album for what it really is. Breathtaking musical beauty!

Alex, Plymouth
You have to take your hat off to Coldplay, they are a band that had a winning formula and were guaranteed to fill stadiums wherever they chose to play. Then they release Viva La Vida an album that explores avenues I would never have dreamt they would venture into. You have to praise bands that are willing to take a risk and release albums that are going to stir up such debate. Radiohead did it when they released Kid A and Amnesiac after the commercial & critical success of OK Computer and in my opinon their best work has come as a result of that gamble. It may not grab you at first the way Parachutes or Rush of Blood did but this will be the Coldplay album you come back to the most. This is the most uplifting album I have heard in years, I find myself smiling at the end of each listen and subconciously reaching for the repeat button. I really hope they continue with this progression and suprise us again with their next release. Those of you who have written bad reviews of this album have done so because Coldplay aren't a 'cool band' but you have still purchased their music...they will be the ones laughing at the end of the day not you.

Brian
A perfectly balanced transitional album, blending old and new with ease.

thaddeus, beirut
Before anyone says that coldplay is amazing, or that this album is incredible, they should go listen to incredible, risky, terrific music. For instance, 'In The Aeroplane Over the Sea" by Neutral Milk Hotel, which has written itself in indelible, but nigh near invisible letters, onto every tasteful listeners mind in brilliant, exciting, triumphant and heartbreaking etches. Joanna Newsom's 'YS' full drenched in risk and popping harps; eerie vocals abounding from her girlish, dicey voice will grab your attention and adoration if it doesn't grab your despise first. Both of those artists, better known of the GENUINE amazing musician, are lyrical deities, respective god and goddess of poetry. What is Chris Martin compared to them? Anything decent from him is a combination of lack of inspiration and lust for meaningfulness. Subtract the fact that you did not write this album, and you'll realize, that any living person with an ounce of creativity, which we all have, could have spit this risk-less, meaningless, musical saliva through there eyes while they sleep. The woken up and wiped it off without trying to show it to the world like you deserve to be it's humble savior.

James, Chesham
Critics wil criticise anything... thats what they do! People have varying opinions and tastes of music.In my opinion this album successfully uses a variety of different musical techniques to produce some very effective songs, with meaning. In regards to the criticism of chris martin's voice on 'yes'... it is not against the 'rules' to use different styles to create a variation in musical depth. In fact there are no 'rules', creativity is a free process. Each coldplay album is different, any good bands albums are. If it were all the same it would clearly not be 'creative' and evidently boring. In this case, to be creative is to develop through experimentation.Variations of musical styles have been used throughout the album, to great effect. Thus expressing emotion, meaning and mood.Don't get stressed over the meaning, a lyric is a lyric and part of the creativity of music... its like art. A song writer writes lyrics meaningfull to himself. Although there are a variety of themes addressed that can be identified, emotion is included!It is a fact of life that the human race are more likely to critise than to praise... so if you have too. But clearly you hav not understood the meaning of the album (as Jeremy quite rightly suggestes) "love life or follow death and all his friends". Criticising creativity defeats the point really, to be creative is to be imaginative. Musicians shouldn't and probally won't listen to critics. If you dont like it its your personal taste, get over it.

Matt-Australia
Couple of good songs, but mostly fill-in tracks. As if they are trying too hard to be different and forgot what makes them great. Really bad production and Martin's voice on "Yes" is terrible. Very dissapointing.

FRANK
NICE MY BELLS , ARE LONG LIVE THE KING

thatsmylaughingbone
the latest by elbow, something new to me for some reason, must be what Coldplay are dreaming of achieving?! Inventive lyrics, interesting musical themes, album # 4(5)!? Coldplay sound like they are trying so hard to mean something without knowing what they want to mean. Chris, find a reason for living or get a life! You have such a "lovely" personal life it doesn't translate in your lyrics. To try and imply this is a "band" album insults the listening public who are far more diserning(sic) than myself. The album has some some good musical points but the lyrics really are quite poor. I saw Coldplay at the Albert Hall some years ago and still feel it is the best gig I have seen yet but coupled with a live gig at some soccer football stadium in south london a few years after, the direction they have taken leaves me to think Coldplay are less to do with their listeners and more to do with their record company. Global dominance sucks if it means nothing outside your own liitle worlds.

Steven
Dear, me. Some of the reviews and opinions on VLV have made me laugh. We should respect each other's opinons, however when they are reasoned by such drivel, I find it difficult. And I say that not as a die-hard fan but someone who likes Coldplay's music very much. So just what exactly is so bad about being 'stadium friendly'? I fail to see a negative relationship between credibility and popularity. Surely drawing such a distinction is massively 'un-cool' in itself? Also, the irony of rounding on a perceived self-consciousness and pretentiousness of a band in the reviews I have read is staggeringly funny. Should I resolve myself solely to aural pleasures from my Joy Division, Arctic Monkeys, CSS, James Holden, or progressive house vinyl collections? Or should I include and enjoy some cracking music from a band that knows how to write a bloody good tune? And, I hasten to add, a good tune with substance. Yes, substance. No matter what some have themselves believe, Coldplay's music does have depth, for it does not need to thrash a guitar, be obvious in its lyrical content, or eschew bittersweet melody to be so. Just because it does not touch some does not mean it is vacuous. Music is subjective by its very nature. Their music is good, but like many other things in this world, it will not be for everyone. The album is familiar in places; the opening being an unashamed hybrid of something from the Lost In Translation soundtrack and The Cure. And whilst there are big nods to U2, New Order and the early 90's Manchester indie sound, this is not an issue when there is clearly much originality to admire on the record. What band is not derivative in its songwriting? Muse has made a career from it, as has Michael Stipe in his lyrical writing. And do you know what? With more and more listens VLV holds together; those disparate soundscapes begin to command distinct and puposeful places in an album that is bigger than the sum of its parts. So, for those that simply do not like it, just realise it is because it just does not grab you, not because it is poor. For those who are unsure, just relax, stop worrying about what is meant to be meaningful and 'cool' and simply enjoy, for that is really opening your eyes. Those that have are not the unthinking masses the doubters may believe, for they had shouted "Long Live Life!" before this album was even written.

Richard, Watford
Dont know what all the fuss is about, Coldplay are an amazing band, on record and especially live! After 3 albums and sometime away they produced 'viva la vida' i for one questioned the record name as sounded like something 'ricky martin' might release, i then got the album sometime after and on first listening as an avid coldplay fan who has even travelled to NYC to see them at madison i might add thought...i'm really not sure about this album. Once it was in the car and i listened a few times think viva la vida is amazing, for one coldplay have created songs since 2000 where after one listen you feel you have heard it 500 times, although even when that happens you never get bored with them, i also am still working out where the album is coming from along with the new sound! but at the same time enjoying it and knowing where its gonna end with me loving the album, being greatful the band are back and not being able to wait to see them live at the 02 arena in december!I really think this is an album that will grow on doubting fans aswell as critics, its different i'll give them that but its still 10 great if not amazing songs by a band going in a different direction and having the balls to do so, they could of kept with the same formula and i bet everyone anti coldplay would now be saying same old coldplay...nothing new bla bla bla! kind of a lose lose situation!. You cant take away from coldplay they are one of the biggest and most talked about bands around and are one of the biggest stadium fillers in the world, they must be flattered all this analysis goes on when they release an album compared with replica bands coming out every other week and albums coming out every day with not so much as a peep! All i know chris martin as a front man is unlike any other and cos of that and his band members being nice guys there bad, well compared with some of the scum and talentless morons in the music industry just goes to show how intelligent some music lovers and critics know, to me there all bitter failed musicians who dislike anything really successfull, long live coldplay and whoever doesnt like the album or 3 prior i feel sorry for you for not taking part in great heart felt music and taking part in the journey and evolution of a band who the world seems to love! i'm a strong believer in the fans are the critics and there seems to be thousands and thousands who must be wrong from here to china to america to south america and that compared with a few critics and journalists......oh well i suppose we've all been hoodwinked! Anyways viva la vida is quality and i'm sure this will be the same with every coldplay album they release cos they are and must be considered a massive talked about talent....i'm happy there back and cant wait till all this hullabaloo dies down and i can turn on the tv or pick up a magazine without someone spurting on about why they think its poor...to me if i hear something and i dont like it, i dont listen to it thats the magic of music, i dont go around telling everyone i know about an album i hate or question cos they would tell me to shut up....and with that i rest my case!Coldplay....Glad ur back and the album is as other wrote....'sublime'

Mark, Macclesfield
Why are people comparing Coldplay to U2? U2 are a bunch of overrated talentless no-marks, at least Coldplay occasionally come up with a decent tune or 2! However, having listened to this album a couple of times, I can only think of 2 decent tunes on it. I'm disappointed to say the least! Still way better than any U2 effort though ;-).

Alex, Canberra
Not bad musically, but lyrically, well shallow comes to mind. Confused? Well the band sure seems to be. . .Lost; very catchy but about as deep as a bucket of sand, much like the rest of the album. Chris Martin needs to get out more. . .

Mikey,uk
Cemeteries of London,Lost,Death and All His Friends,viva Coldplay,memorable songs.

Linus, Toronto, Ontario Canada
Parachutes was amazing, AROBTTH reached sonic excellence, X&Y was a soundtrack to my life in the 00's. Then came VLV - a bitter disappointment, or so it seemed until I forced myself to listen to the album continuously for 6 hours straight. Then it finally clicked - "Life in Technicolour" echoes U2's "Where the Streets Have No name". Stings' backing vocals bring back memories of Dire Straits' Money For Nothing. While listening to LVL my mind began to ebb and flow through my teenage years, into my 20's, and 30's 's and back again like a pendulum . Then it struck me - this is the only band in recent years that stands a chance of repeating the longevity of U2, Sting.... and The Beatles. Violet Hill and 42 have hints of Lennon and McCartney woven within them, Strawberry Swing brings back memories of "Eleanor Rigby" embedded within the melodic violins. Then it hits you, with LVL these guys have switched lanes to launch the next 20 or 30 years of amazing work. Eno is their springboard on this occasion, but like U2, Coldplay will move on to create their own path to continued critical success and adoration by fans around the globe. I've got my tickets for the live gigs in Toronto this morning. The first date sold out in about 10 minutes the second date was quickly added, and sold out in about another 15 minutes. The live performance of LVL will be the real test - If they can match the four live performances that I saw in Toronto in support of X&Y during 2005/06, they will be on to another massive winner. Until then, we'll just have to get our excitement watching Eurocup 2008 and praying that England can win the World Cup in 2010, and the Maple Leafs can win a Stanley Cup in my lifetime. Until those two things happen - I'll stick with Coldplay to get me through another 20 years or more.....

indianapolis, united states
For anyone to say that this album is bland or unoriginal is truly ignorant. If you look outside of Coldplay, you can't find a band that has more emotional-swaying music. Coldplay's music has never been music that was written for publicity. Every song has meaning and genuine effort behind it, and the Viva la Vida album is truly awe-inspiring. Where will you hear music that sounds like this?? I have listened to so many Radiohead and U2 songs, and still find it hard for people to compare Coldplay to them. Coldplay's earlier music may have had similarities, but I think they have finally put themselves in their own unique category. They are one of the only bands left in this world that actually does use clever, original, and witty music to influence an audience. This new album offers sounds of orchestral-driving rhythm, gloomy organ synths, and epic movements that make you want to stop what you're doing and enjoy life, hence the album's title, which means "long live life." The album is truly brilliant, and it has songs that can satisfy anyone's musical tastes. To say that the album had little work put into it sounds very close-minded. It was a two-year project that had its lows and highs, and uniformity in the band was regained after sometime, which helped to create, in my opinion, what may someday be called a "masterpiece."

Andruza, Washington DC
The ambiguous feeling after listening to the album made me read some reviews. Some say Viva la Vida is a sublime album. Others say "Eno go away". This album is more complex than the previous ones (Eno's "fault"). What I like most about Coldplay is the sublime simplicity easy to find in Parachutes and A Rush...simplicity that sadly, I still can't find in this album. Hopefully I will get accustomed to Viva la Vida very soon, after listening to it one hundred times.

Astral
VIVA LA VIDA COLDPLAY!!!!

Aaron from OZ
People had bad things to say about X & Y because they expected it to sound like rush of blood or parachutes, but once you listen to it a few times like me you begin to hear a great album. Viva la Vida, may take people a little while to get used to, theres a different theme and a different sound but this album is Brilliant! It showcases their muscianship and skill. my only dissapointment is that Chris hasnt produced any solo acoustic tracks which I think he is very good at. But anyone who says this is shit should have another listen, I think its their Best yet!! Well done Lads!

Matt
I don't see why people seem to get upset about the U2 comparisons as if its a point of principle. The point of a critic is to situate the work, to help us to understand it, exploring its textures, its reference points etc. There job is more than simply saying this is good, bad, indifferent.Here, then, is another U2 comparison. I understand Chris Martin is 32, The Joshua Tree came out when Bono and the lads were 27. And it was their 5th studio album. I still think TJT has massive power, but that's going to be partly I'm Chris Martin's age and TJT came out when I was at a very impressionable age. There are probably teenagers today, of a slightly sensitive mein but with an ear for bombast and the heart on the sleeve, who will think similarly of this in 20 years time. Personally, I don't think Coldplay has done anything that has made the same impact as U2 at the height of their powers (which has now long passed) and given that Coldplay now occupy a similar place it's reasonable to ask why not. For what it's worth, I think their stuff immediately likeable and there have been some excellent individual tracks. Part - but only part - of the difference is that Chris Martin has neither Bono's charisma nor his evangelical beliefs, meaning that Bono a) though daft convinces & b) actually rises above the banal (just!) in his lyrics because they are informed by something bigger than Chris Martin's commonplace sentiments.

Graeme Nibbs
i know everyone is allowed there opinion but if you think this album is anything but sweet smooth brillance with heart melting open lyrics and deserving of anything less than a 5/5 then you are just plain nuts as this is the way music was mean't to be played and heard

alex, USA
I think that this album is exactly the change that coldplay needed in order to create a true classic in the very near future. It is a great album that verges on classic status, but isn't quite there. Coldplay is on their way to true undeniable greatness, and this is obviously proof. While it is not perfect, it is still coldplay's best, and I'd be willing to bet they will only get better.

sarah solihull
OH MY GOD ITS AMAZING i have listened 2 it non stop the best album ever it brings tears 2 my eyes. death and all his friends is beatifull and lost and viva la vida- the whole album! i catn wait till their tour and i have front row seats woooooo i love chris martin

Daz
Coldplay = Great bandVLV = Good albumEnough said.

Martin - Costa Del Sol Malaga
Opinions - Opinions - Opinions we all have them - Coldplay are one of the best live bands in the world - Viva will take a few plays to get into our souls but thats Coldplay .The safe Coldplay mould has changed for this new CD - U2 did it so did Oasis who gives a shit im sure Chris Martin and the boys dont .They are all megastars and we will all buy tickets for their next tour .Coldplay are british - VIVA LA COLDPLAY .

J
Of course music should be discussed. As long as opinions aren’t declared to be facts and that people can appreciate what others think and feel. You cannot state ‘Coldplay are not a great band’ Vlad! You’re entitled to your opinion but don’t try to state it as if it’s the Gods honest truth and then piss off a lot of people. In my opinion, this is a beautiful, amazing album that gets better with each listen. This might not be the case for some but this is simply how I feel about it. As a huge fan of this band since they started, I anticipate anything they release with such overwhelming excitement. However, hearing your favourite band’s latest is a bit experimental or that it’s a new direction for them always creates anxiety. Luckily, I think the experiments have paid off. Despite the obvious connection, due to Eno’s involvement, Coldplay do not sound like U2. They sound like Coldplay, as it has been said; bright, colourful, melodic, hypnotic… The new album may well be one for ‘sitting listening’ whilst staring out of the window at the world going by’ but it’s also one to sing along to in a stadium or whilst going about doing anything in day to day life. I believe that ‘Viva La Vida’ is possibly the band’s greatest song to date but the whole album is amazing and very refreshing. The songs are often initially surprising, something a bit different for the band, and ultimately evocative and joyous. There’s a groove to this album that they haven’t had before and whereas the last album was good this is more interesting and ultimately fulfilling. It’s more interesting musically. However, it could be said that the way some songs don’t develop or progress in the way you expect is disappointing. I’m very interested to know how ‘Life In Technicolor’ sounded with lyrics and what on earth the lyrics are to ‘Chinese Sleep Chant’ (hidden track in the middle of the album). Nevertheless, more often than not, the way they do develop I feel is fulfilling. For example the sudden shift in 42 is brilliant. All just my opinion of course but I love this album and this band. Never before have they sounded so like a band than when they proclaim together ‘I don’t wanna follow death and all of his friends’ on the end track. Magical. (Thanks Verity but I was a little bit over the top).

Les Slater. Buckskin, Basingstoke
I think VIVA LA VIDA is brillaint from start to finish, 45 minutes of pure brilliance, and they don't sound like U2. and people should not compare them to U2. nothing like them! Brilliant album, ten out of ten.nuch better tha, X&Y. Fantastic.

Daryn Simon
Simpy awesome.

Vince, Liverpool
Gaz, anything deep is invisible to those who are shallow. Making comments about music you don't like is far sadder than praising bands you admire. But you are probably too sheltered from criticism to realise that concluding a 'review' with 'urgh...' is truly pitiful.

Piers, Colchester
Coldplay have turned yet another corner and have produced an album to remember! The emotion that has gone into these songs is incredible. Lovers in Japan/Reign of Love is a superb combination of songs. Viva La Vida is an instant hit. I have got Lost just going round and round in my head, its the sound more than the actual words for some reason. But there is one song that makes the album what it is........Death and All His Friends. I would go as far to say it is the best song i have ever heard. You can really tell from this song how much work, effort and emotion was put into a simply unique album.

Daniel, Bedford
Absolutely superb. I felt they were slipping a tad with X&Y...they have dragged themselves back to the top of pile with this record. "Viva La Vida" is one of their greatest tracks since "Shiver" and "Clocks"...people slate Coldplay because they're successful for doing something so simple...making great music. Millions of people can't be wrong. Viva La Vida? Viva Coldplay!

Matt, Lincolnshire
Admittedly I've only listened to it once, maybe it's a grower, but so far I'm not that impressed, X&Y was far better, and there are no songs on here that stand out as future classics like some of their previous work.

Ian
Death and all of his friends what a great song!

CALVIN
Jeremy is spot on. coldplay are the best band of our time along with the killers. rock bands come along by the dozen but to do what coldplay does is supremeley unique. timeless.

rich, salford
Rock/Indie? Surely this should be in the easy/soundtrack section. Easy because, let's face it, it's not hard. Soundtrack because it's going to be played over every sport clip, house improvement show and romcom until the next lp. This isn't challenging, this is bland. I'd rather listen to Breakfast In America, at least that had lyrics. And it's hardly rock'n'roll throwing a sulk on Radio 4. Who do you think you're fooling?

LeslCarter. south ham basingstoke
i have heard some of the songs on the new album, it does seem a bit different form their last which was over produced, this one has Brian Eno producing, so it's bound to be better that the last. very interesting, it could be the album of the year.Coldplay have maturedi nto a better band 'at last.'

Neil, Northants
On first playing one word came to mind.....dirge...then another word came to mind......dreary......then another....dire. All I could say out loud is Eno go away and make your own depressing drivel. Having said that though I have forced myself to play it again a few times and either I have been hypnotised by some subliminal Chris Martin vocals or I'm starting to mellow in my thoughts on this album. It is growing ever so slightly on me. Maybe I was in too good a mood upon first listen to appreciate the overall understated atmosphere of it. Certainly not one for putting on in the car, more like one for sitting listening to just staring out into the window at the world going by. Not the best from Martin and co but who knows several dozen more plays and it might just get there in the end.

Willy
I'm with Beefy, disappointing. I hate to say it but at times it sounded pretty mundane and almost directionless, lost in a sea of post production trickery. Couple of good tracks though and will still sell by the bucket load regardless.

stocky,birmingham
i personnaly think that this album is quite frankly an amazing album. dont hate coldplay just to try to be cool. just put your hands up and apreciate an amazing album that speaks to us all. as alex.b said sublime. i just cant believe when i heard about the new coldpay album that it would be anything as good as this. who else is as good as this to so many?? come on coldplay haters!! (im an interpol fan by the way!)

Matt
I have listened through it once now. I think this is the path Coldplay needs to continue. The new album is awesome, and I love howin the middle of some of the songs it will change.

John, Cork, Ireland.
Consider this: Coldplay (like U2, The Killers -other bands of mass appeal) became huge for a reason. They didn't just begin life as stadium-filling, Starbucks-friendly, mega-acts that the music snobs hate them for being.It is because, unwittingly or otherwise, these bands managed to tap into something millions of people didn't know even know they wanted until they heard it. An liked it. And so bought it. Just like Coca-Cola.We are still primal creatures, and in the same way that we crave sugar and fat although we all know they're bad for us, something about Coldplay's music obviously flicked some sub-conscious switch for many, many people. Sometimes we are slaves to our instincts, and logic, (or, in this case an in-depth analysis of the music) goes out the window. We like what we like.I'm not saying that Chris Martin and his buddies knew this magic formula in advance, but they stumbled upon it, and good on them - it's made them very rich. So, try cutting them down with a song-by-song disection if you like. Analyse the song structures. Pick apart the lyrics. It's like telling people how much sugar is in Coke. Or how much fat is contained in a Big Mac. That part of our brains just don't care!!So I played this record. It was bright, colourful, melodic. I liked it right away. I listen to a LOT of of music in a lot of genres. Much of it, you could say, is 'clever' music. But this still finds a place on my shelf and the shelves (or coffee tables, as the critics will sneer!) of millions of others. You can't just bash them for that.Chips. Chocolate. Coke. Coldplay. I know they won't do anything good for me - but dammit, I like them! Yee-har!!

Ron
A dull dull album. I've been searching for something to grab me (like x & y did) but there really is no substance, passion or originality remaining in this band. The slippery slope awaits...

Tony Tapwater
see you soon, which I think was a b-side? that was a great track, they have been going hill fast since then,each subsequent release getting more and more uninspired and bland, formulaic and predictable, I honestly quite liked parts of parachutes too. What went wrong? did they get greedy? Well marrying Hollywood stars isn't going to do much for your creativity, Fix you? I thought that was a joke it was so mawkish and phoney in it's sentiment. Ok so he writes a little melancholy in style (before a nice euphoric stadium friendly chorus, no not a formula though Jeremy) Deep though? hmmm, I think they have been slowly making there way to the shallows ever since they decided they needed to sound like stadium rock gods, man Elliott smith had more emotion in his left index fingernail than Chris martin has in his whole body. zzzzzz

Dan, Bedford
Fans are going to get on their soap box if they think the reviewer isnt saying nice things about their favourite band. The album is good. Nothing more, nothing less. It would however, probably would have been great if Radiohead hadnt just released their album (which, if you like this, is friggin brilliant)Coldplay do make me laugh though, especially with this self consciously 'save the world' attitude they seem to have developed. They do not have anything to add to the world, and as a lot of people have said, if they wanted to change the world they would do just that rather than making recycled record after recycled record. If they wanted to prove a point we wouldnt know who the hell they were.They were much better as an unassuming young band, rather than the pretentious one trick pony they have become. Both Parachutes and A Rush of Blood.... were ace. X and Y was sparse and bland and this is trying too hard.

Fer, Buenos Aires
great record! i love the 13 pieces of music on it

Jonah
Jeremy - I do not believe criticism tries to "destroy" music! That's a pretty lofty accusation! I think it is most useful to think of criticism as contribution to discussion... would you actually suggest that we should not discuss music, that it is beyond commentary? Mr. Jones's comments are just one reviewer's personal take on the music, with all the personal bias and baggage that might be implicated in such criticism. I perfectly understand that you this album is resonant and meaningful to you (and that's beautiful), but I think you're taking Mr. Jones's contribution to the conversation a bit too personally. Lighten up... people often have different tastes, and that's OK. (I love coldplay too!)

JP, Vancouver, BC, Canada
I don't understand the critical acclaim this album is getting. I heard the whole disc end to end several times, and I can't find anything that is good as everyone claims. It just sound so artificial over engineered Eno. I don't hear any clutching hooks, or really any memorable lyrics either. Not to say "yellow" was a poetic masterpiece, but I can only barely remember the single "Violet Hills".

Nicko
It is pretty apparent this group peaked on their creativity on their first cd, and lost it somwhere during the second one.This new CD is basically a rehash of everything else they have done which I am sad to say is very shallow.

Ben
I Just have to say, i think viva la vida is coldplays greatest song EVER, they will never be able to top it. It is just amazing

Jay Parmar
I have the whole album, and trust me, it is absolutely perfect. I cannot fault it. 1. Life In Technicolor2. Cemeteries Of London3. Lost4. 425. Lovers In Japan/Reign Of Love6. Yes7. Viva La Vida8. Violet Hill9. Strawberry Swing10. Death And All His Friends From start to finish it is mesmerising. Probably the best 40 odd minutes of this year I will ever have. What great lyrics, vocals, instrumentals and generally an album that should soon stick at number one for a long time. Leona Lewis is gonna get a run for her money; Coldplay are back!

Peter, Scotland
Viva La Vida is simply a powerful album with amazing songs. Does anyone care about the pathetic comparisons with U2? No! These are Coldplay's songs not U2's. I really like U2 but I've always thought it a shame that no one else seems to try the sort of music U2 have. Coldplay are hardly U2. The whole comparison argument is one which is very weak and is just a way of trying to look like a good music reviewer/enthusiast. Viva La Vida will be simply sublime.

Martin, Sweden
Regarding formulas (and nothing else):What exactly is a formula? Chords? The way Chris Martin sings? Which instruments you play? Arrangement?Personally I think it's stupid to talk about formulas. Most of all because many people will think you mean this commercial business-sounds created for people to like it and I don't think you mean that. I kinda know what you are meaning but it doesn't mean anything.Regarding the album, I think this is coldplays strongest so far in some ways. Most of all musically, I also find the lyrics to be a bit more influenced than they have been before. Before it has been "I love you so much and I have to say that in as many ways as possible in a few lines" and now the lyrics seem wider, for good and bad.

james wisconsin usa
simply an underwhelming album. NOt bad, but ceratinly NOT a classic, or even a great record for that matter.there has to be a solid 20 minutes of either silence, or radioheadesque nonsense in this 45 min lp.Just tries too hard. 5 great tunes though.

James, London
I agree with this review almost entirely haven listened to the album on Myspace solidly for two days, however must disagre and say I really like Strawberry Swing :-) - looking forward to their BBC show too

Claire
The album has quite a mixed review, that counts in my eyes as a good alnbum, something that splits peoples views and encourages debates like the one from Jeremy to spring up. That means they have their own unique set of fans who will constantly follow the success of a decent band. I think this album will sell many more than the critics think.

Vlad, Bucharest
Coldplay are not a great band. It's the music scene that has got so small, that even a group like this seems great...In any musical years but the 00s, Coldplay wouldn't have made the stardom. They would've been a support band for the real great ones - and they've would've done a fair job in that, because though they aren't great, they aren't bad either. And a healthy music scene needs this kind of quality background.Now for the album in question. It's also like that : not bad, maybe their best effort yet, but still far from a classic like Joshua Tree, for example. Their tunes are way too simple, just some chords that sound good indeed, but are too few. And even an "artsy" production like Eno's cannot hide it.By the way, "the bald one"'s "touch of magic" is not complicated either : a few keyboard effects, a few symphonic oriental chords, a few changes of orchestration here and there, and everyone gets extatic as if before some great revolution of sound.The lyrics are also shallow. It may seem deep only to a Westerner, for whom breaking a nail is a regular catastrophe ! For people who really know the hardness of life, Martin's "empathy" is only a spoiled star's whim...So, what is the explanation of Coldplay's success, so out of proportion with their material ?It's simply the need for stars, for idols. If really worthy ones don't appear, the next best take their place in public's imagination. If there isn't, in our time, a group like The Beatles, or not even one like Oasis, then we're satisfied with what is there - with Coldplay, in this case.I maybe seem too harsh on them and their fans... If so, I apologize. It is not my intention to spoil their pleasure. However, I wish there were out there stars capable of making a real difference !

Bittney US
Viva La Vida is the koolest song ever!

Mike B
This album will grow on you and after your 4th listen you will realise how excellent this album is...seriously I can't get enough

Pete.L - London
Love all the songs especially Lost and Strawberry Swing!Pure Class!!!

Alex, Brisbane, Australia
With regards to the review, complicated language doesn't necessarily impress, it confused me.However, the album is absolutely fantastic. There is a great range of different sounds, from the instrumental "Life in Technicolor", to a comparitavely lively "Lost", to my favourite track, "Death and all his friends", which combines three unique sounds.Well done coldplay, it was worth the wait!

Maca
Jeremy - you are completely incorrect, this album is a massive dissapointment, Eno's influence makes it sound to U2. Boring bland stadium rock, verging on pretentious. There song structure is formulaic (fact and undisputable, if you know what basic music composition is). And what "fundamental human issues" do you refer to? If it is love, life and the way of the world, then that is as unoriginal as the music that these guys make.I did like Coldplay's earlier albums, but this attempt at a new album is awful.Beefy - I agree with pretty much everything you put n your review.

Alphonse , Hamburg
Viva La Vida ....is goin to hit the charts with massive records..........Feel it and n'joy it.

Kat, Dundee
I think Jeremy (other commenter) doesn't understand this review at all. I am in no way a Coldplay fan, but I don't see what was so offensive about the review, it's pretty complimentary. I'd take that if it was a band I liked! You have to realise Coldplay do have a formula to their music - it's why a lot of their songs sound similar. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, and a lot of other bands/artists do the same thing. It's why they have their own 'sound' and why, I imagine, their fans like them. Nobody can tell me this is a huge departure from previous Coldplay songs. If I'm being honest, the time when they might have won me over to be a fan was when they sang lovely little tunes like Trouble and In My Place, rather than obsessing over matching U2's album progression (see Chris Martin's latest comments). They don't have to change if you like them - and ignore criticism if you do.

verity
I don't know why critics love to hate Coldplay (just because they have commercial success) I love Coldplay and their songs are really good. (I totally agree with Jeremy).

Dave
I think Strawberry Swing is one of the nicest most uplifting little songs I’ve heard in a long time !

Beefy, Jones
Viva La Vida is quite possibly the best song they've ever written, and Lost! is worthy of a place on any Coldplay album, and will surely be a future single. But beyond that, this is comfortably there worst album. It seems to me that the band are trying to cover up some uninspired and bland writing with fancy production, and although it wont dent the sales figures this time around, they've failed to pull it off. Kudos to the band for trying to reinvent themselves, but they just sound like they're confused with what they want at the minute. A handful of the tracks, Lovers In Japan for example, sound far too similar to U2, while tracks like 42 appear to have been strung together randomly from two completely different songs, and it really doesn't work too well. In some ways I get the impression that little time was put into the writing of this album, even considering it has been in production for two years. This album is clearly below par compared to all previous Coldplay albums, and that's really disapointing considering how much time the band spend writing their albums these. Don't get me wrong however. Although comfortably there worst album, it's still not that bad an album. It's one that a lot of die-hard Coldplay fans will probably appreciate and defend vigorously, the more casual Coldplay fans will feel disapointed by, and for those with wider tastes in music, your attention wont be captured too quickly, and you may lose interest soon after anyway...

Michael E.
I know Chris Jones, he´s a great guy and knows a lot of music. Funny that he speaks so positive about the new Coldplay album, and nevertheless gets "thumbs down" by somene who calls himself a fan and quotes "millions" as proof of his point of view. Let me tell you: majorities don´t count when we speak about taste! I don´t like this album that much. For me it has great momnents and, in equal measure, lost moments. Coldplay is perhaps too limited to do a classic. The early 90´s album Brian Eno did with James ("Laid")is by far more catchy and thrilling! "Vida la viva..." is quite okay, and the three stars of "Mojo" are right, in my opinion.

Gaz, Middlesborough
ha! jeremy, you're obviously leading a very sad and sheltered life if you think what martin and his band of dullards peddle is in any way 'deep'. Good grief - I'm amazed that this review was so kind to be honest. I wish they'd all shut up. And for Eno to have got involved is SHAMEFUL. I hope he has many sleeepless nights. Pitiful, shallow stadium rock. Urgh....

Jeremy
You clearly don't know much about music, or simply have not done all your research, if you can only state a song 'seems' to have certain instrumentation! And of course it all 'sounds so easy!' Things always sound or look easy when accomplished with such skill. Coldplay are one of those bands that can write amazing, often instantly catchy songs that seem so simple but are actually bloomin hard to write! Rather than simply being formulaic, their songs are often variations on similar themes (and there IS actually great variation in the sound, structure and subject matter of their songs, as any fan would tell you). They strike such a cord with millions because they explore fundamental human issues. This meditative music may annoy some who like their rock not to plunge the depths of the human heart, but it gives countless people, plagued by the same intense feelings of fear and doubt, yet full of love and hope, such solace. Criticism is the lowest form of art (I realise the hypocrisy Mr Jones). It tries to destroy what people love. Yet this band is not critic-proof because of their success. Every harsh word is felt but the music can not be tainted. Viva La Vida is a sublime album. It may get played to death but... love life or follow death and all his friends.

ALEX.B
ITHINK THIS SONG IS FREAKIN ALSOME