Viva La Vida Review

Release Date: June 12, 2008
Label: Parlophone, Capitol
Genres: Rock
Number Of Tracks: 10
Coldplay throws a few curve balls musically on the new album Viva La Vida, but not so many as to alienate its loyal fan base.

Sound:	8.1
Lyrics:	7.6
Impression:	8.1
Overall rating:	7.9
Users rating:	8.1
Comments:	109

overall: 8.3

Featured review by: UG Team, on june 19, 2008

Sound: Regardless if Coldplay’s style of music connects with you, there is a certain reliable quality to the band. There is no shortage of consistently pleasing melodies on the new album Viva La Vida, and you could easily hand-pick the tracks that will likely find their way onto the Billboard charts. You could make the argument that Chris Martin and company have experimented with different sounds on the new record (particularly given the several hidden tracks and the ethereal production of Brian Eno), but in the end, Coldplay never awes like a Radiohead album. For the varied fan base the band has amassed since it formed in 1997, the new material will like be embraced for it's heavy focus on calming melodies.

Many of you have probably already been given a taste of the album if you happen to be a regular TV viewer. The title track can be heard on a new iTunes commercial while Coldplay dances in the shadows, and the song is definitely catchy. “Viva La Vida” emphasizes Coldplay’s upbeat side, which doesn’t bring the piano to the forefront like most of the other tracks do. There are multiple layers to each song on the album, and this poppier number is no exception with it's subtle use of a string section. It’s an understandable choice as a first single and has arguably the most memorable melody on the playlist.

Coldplay delivers plenty of “Scientist”-like material on Viva La Vida, but the quartet is most impressive when it enters into unfamiliar territory. The tracks that probably won’t receive radio play because of their elaborate arrangements and often melancholy feel are most often the choice cuts. “Cemeteries of London” seems almost a traditional English folk song during the verses, but Martin takes it in more of a pop direction during the chorus with a series of “la-la-las.” “Yes” goes in an even more daring direction by using a violin in classical fashion in the intro, but then taking on a bluegrass fiddle sound. All the while, Martin uses a much lower vocal register that suits the song perfectly.

There are a few songs that feature hidden tracks tacked onto the end as well. “Yes” morphs into “Chinese Sleep Chant,” a more straightforward rock track with some nice guitar tones. “Death and His Friends,” a piano-heavy track that sounds like classic Coldplay fare, develops into the ambient, synth-rich “The Escapist.” These little bonus additions give Viva La Vida a soundtrack-like quality and work for the most part. // 8

Lyrics and Singing: The title track strays from what you might expect a typical radio single to deliver lyrically, offering up some intriguing lines. Martin sings, “I hear Jerusalem bells are ringing; Roman cavalry choirs are singing; Be my mirror, my sword, my shield; My missionaries in a foreign field; For some reason I can't explain.” This track marks some of the most vivid and inspired lyrics on the album. Not every track sustains this kind of originality, but even the simply-stated lines (“They were sitting; They were talking; In the strawberry swing; Everybody was for fighting; Wouldn't wanna waste a thing” as heard in “Strawberry Swing”) have a sentimental quality. // 9

Impression: If you’re a fan of Coldplay’s piano-led singles that have occupied the airwaves, then you won’t be disappointed in Viva La Vida. There’s a heavy dose of the mellow, soft rock that the band has delivered in the past, but there is a more ambient sound interwoven into it all. On iTunes there were a few bonus acoustic versions of “Lost!” and “Lovers In Japan,” with the first track being basically Martin and his piano. It’s the alternate version of “Lovers In Japan” that makes a bigger impression because of it's rich, layered acoustic guitar arrangement.

Undoubtedly Roxy Music veteran Brian Eno (often called the father of ambient music) had input in the overall sound, but it never gets to the point where dramatic synth lines go on so long that they’re driven into the ground. In fact, considering the best tracks sound a bit darker than the usual singles, it probably wouldn’t hurt Coldplay to go even further outside of their comfort zone in the future. // 8

overall: 9.7

Reviewed by: csc501, on june 19, 2008

Sound: Viva La Vida takes the unique sound of Coldplay to the next level of muscial mastery. This album more than any of its predecessors has a 'sound', a well tuned and defined sound, an almost Radiohead esque purity of purpose that give the whole album a feelign of being just that bit special. Try to imagine the Colplay of X&Y, purifued, with an additional element of pretense, and a self-certainty that would make it hard to believe they ever soudned any other way, if you didn't already know they have done. It takes Coldplay's harmonys to a new level, with a 'funked-up' percussion, a move away from the verse chorus strutcure. Viva la Vida simply has a sound oozing with intelligence, instantly captivating and magnificinetly executed. // 10

Lyrics and Singing: The voice of Chris Martin has been described in a hundred and one ways, but teh meaning of the songs has generally been transparent, or not the topic of much debate. Viva la Vida breaks this mould, with intriguing statements, often repeated, indeed in terms of quantity there are probably less passages of lyrical input in Viva la Vida than any previous album, indeed there are frequent instrumental sections, and even an instrumental opener. What is there is generally far more interesting than previous efforts and fits well with the musical style. Numerous reference to death god and the afterlife, give this album an additional and much appreciated edge. // 9

Impression: Viva la Vida is a masterpiece, it's Coldplay's best album, and it's an instant classic of an alternative era. Parachutes though acclaimed, was much in tune with the other down-beat indie of the time (although whether it would have been called indie at the time I can't quite recall), now the comparisons are vastly more far reaching, Radiohead, The Who, maybe even the Smashing Pumpkins (in each case with reference to their later works), but in truth it's a unique sound and whilst the musical intrigue and topics may remind some of Pumpkin's Machina & Adore, or the complexity and move towards a more 'dancey' beat, the transition of Radiohead, this album is it's own. There's always a downside, and for Viva la Vida the lack of the more punchy 'single' material perhaps could be pointed at, and renewed claims that Coldplay's style is simply dull, have a hint of merit. However it's simply too interesting and perfectly constructed to make those into major complaints. // 10

overall: 7

Reviewed by: Big_4, on june 30, 2008

Sound: The overall sound of Coldplay's "Viva La Vida" is without a doubt unique amd like nothing heard for quite a while. The presence of producer Brian Eno on this album is evident on almost every track, and the listener can detect traces from "Music For Airports" and "Another Green World." Songs like Life In Technicolor, Violet Hill, and Death And All His Friends are centered largely around airy soundscapes set by synth pads, where as songs like Lost (which features oriental-style drumming) and Strawberry Swing incorporate progressive, innovative rhythms. It's a new approach for Coldplay, and I greatly welcome is as a change of pace from the usual slick piano tracks. But they will be missed. // 8

Lyrics and Singing: The lyrics on "Viva" are bizarre and cryptic, to start off with. Lyrics like "No I don't wanna battle from beginning to end; I don't wanna cycle, recycle revenge; I don't wanna follow death and all his friends" (Death And ALl His Friends), it's become appaernt that Coldplay's view on the world has become more somber and even depressed. Long gone are the beautiful love ballads like Yellow or the Scientist, the uplifting angelic vocals. The album lacks the most here. // 5

Impression: In the long run, I think this album will be just another release--not their best or worse. But as of right now, it's a good fix. I, for one, miss the uplifting lyrics and the smooth piano, but their new found love of the drums and chunkier beats are also welcome. I feel the songs like "Lost!," "Violet Hill," and "Death And All His Friends" will become instant Coldplay classics (especially Death And All His Friends), but they will never draw mainstream attantion. The album is a big change of pace. It's not a adequate replacement for the smooth soft piano rock of yore, but it is still an excellent album. // 8

overall: 9.7

Reviewed by: A3r0sm1th, on august 26, 2008

Sound: They've done it again! Coldplay's newest, Viva la Vida is definitely a must have! They are so consistent with putting out great albums that they are my favorite soft rock group of all time. Chris Martin's piano is always great to listen to and the different sound they have makes them stand out from the crowd. Quite a few of the tracks from this album will be topping iTune charts without a doubt. I love this group and will enjoy listening to every CD they put out! // 10

Lyrics and Singing: Their lyrics are always great. I more listen to them for their sound, but my overall impression is good. The lyrics don't always make sense to me, and can be unusual sometimes. The lyrics that stand out the most to me are from the track "Viva la Vida". "I hear Jerusalem bells are ringing; Roman cavalry choirs are singing; Be my mirror, my sword, my shield; My missionaries in a foreign field" This track contains the most inspired lyrics on the new album. Like I said, I listen to them more for their unique sound, but Chris Martin does a great job singing in my opinion. // 9

Impression: This album does keep that consistent, unique Colplay sound that you would recognize right away. They do add a couple different sounds, but it's still the same, great Coldplay we all know and love. My personal favorite tracks are "Violet Hill" and "Cemeteries of London". If it were damaged or stolen, I would buy 10 more copies to have a limitless supply! I love the new sounds, I love the old sounds, and I love this album! // 10

overall: 9.3

Reviewed by: pkg2008, on june 19, 2008

Sound: Brian Eno was a great addition to producing Coldplay's 4th album. Eno has created I kind of tribal effect on the album with some songs such as Viva La Vida which also uses some choir singing towards the end of the song. Violet Hill is the mains song on the album and so it should be. The great lyrics, heavy chords from the electric guitar and a great video to go with it; it should have been number 1 in the charts but it only made 8th in the charts as a single. it's also a potential grammy award winner. No doubt this album will be number 1 in the album charts. // 10

Lyrics and Singing: If you could describe Chris Martin in 1 word it would have to be 'legendary'. The great voice to the great songs like 'Yellow', 'Clocks', 'In My Place' and many many more has to be voted the best singer of the 21st century by a mile. The lyrics to some of the songs are very detailed and don't always seem like the best lyrics but any lyrics just sound great with the voice of Chris Martin. // 8

Impression: On a overall impression the phrase to describe the album is 'Different but still excellent'. Brian Eno certainly changed the mood of Chris & co. because it seems as though every album gets better & better which doesn't happen with many bands. It's certain that Violet Hill is the best song on the album but songs like Lovers in Japan and Viva La Vida are also amongst the best. There hasn't, isn't and wont ever be anything to hate about Coldplay simple excellence. A real must have album! // 10

overall: 1

Reviewed by: unregistered, on june 20, 2008

Sound: This album is a pure disappointment on every single level. The sound is repetitive, the ethereal sounds that 'Fix You' barely got away with on their last album is used far too extensively on this record, and none of it sounds much good. The only contrasts are the two singles 'Violet Hill' with it's evident ska influence and 'Viva La Vida' which is an anthem which would encapsulate the whole album. // 1

Lyrics and Singing: Chris Martin's lyrics get more dull as each album is released. Where the lyrics were extraordinary on songs like 'The Scientist' and 'Trouble', the same imagery [of things like soldiers and historical figures] is used over and over again. Often, he's barely inedible, which makes him sound like he's whining about nothing interesting at all. A huge disappointment. // 1

Impression: This album, to me, is even worse than their last release 'X&Y', which I thought was insufferable. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love their first two albums, yet I'm bitterly disappointed by their new movement. The only songs I'd recomend are the two singles, and I'd rather listen to eighties pop for the rest of my life than consider buying this record again. // 1

overall: 9

Reviewed by: unregistered, on june 23, 2008

Sound: The overall sound of Viva La Vida is consistent with the rest of their material. Coldplay has proven once again their ability to write great melodies and consistently craft strong pop rock songs. Fans in stadiums around the world will be heard singing powerful hooks found in songs such as "Cemetaries in London" and "Viva La Vida". However, Coldplay did do some things differently. For example, the song "Yes" is a standout on the album, showing a Zeppelin-esque mix of blues and Middle Eastern flavors not heard in most, if any, earlier Coldplay material. The sound is a mixture of the tried and true Coldplay anthems mixed with some interesting new directions that have developed a powerful sound. // 9

Lyrics and Singing: With plenty of religious references and a few political ideas, Viva La Vida has a number of interestingly built lyrical pieces. "42" displays a hint of Pink Floyd-type influence in it's words. Even the less lyrically complicated songs, such as "Strawberry Swing" or "Lost!", are still very powerful in different ways. // 9

Impression: Overall, I honestly can't stop listening to Viva La Vida. The title track and single "Viva La Vida" is, IMO, one of the lesser tracks on the album, leaving some Coldplay fans I know and myself somewhat weary of the band's tendency for releasing disappointing singles (ex: "Speed of Sound" off of X&Y). Nevertheless, the album is very impressive and is a yet another great piece of work by Coldplay. If you are any bit into Coldplay, you will probably get hooked very quickly to this CD. // 9

overall: 9

Reviewed by: Robbiekeano, on june 19, 2008

Sound: The opening Life In Technicolor introduces their subtler approach. It strains to be a Coldplay Epic TM, but teasingly stays an instrumental. Cemeteries Of London follows. Folkier and more downbeat than usual, it's pretty but one of the album's more predictable moments. It truly explodes with Lost!, as Will Champion's inventive percussion solidifies into a nagging tribal groove behind Chris Martin's huggable vocals. Next is 42, the undoubted standout and the best argument to win back early fans who went off Coldplay once the stadiums came calling. Starting out like Imagine, it suddenly switches into a titanic shoegaze drone, only to turn into a fabulous upbeat terrace anthem before heading back to its piano origins. All in four minutes. Yes/Chinese Sleep Chant's hypnotic bass is similarly unexpected, Martin again singing with unusual menace. Lovers In Japan's euphoric keyboards, reminiscent of The Beloved, make it the first Coldplay floorfiller. It turns into Reign Of Love, the album's weakest ballad-by-numbers along with Violet Hill, which was a downright peculiar choice of first single. The title track rescues matters again, furthering Lost! 's African percussion. It's both too subtle to be a cloying appropriation of Tinariwen rhythm, and too joyous to care what anyone thinks. Strawberry Swing is better still, keeping Lovers In Japan's euphoria for a blissed-out trance. Death And All His Friends' lovely guitars soon fades into hidden song The Escapist, which sees Martin chanting over producer Brian Eno's most obvious input, a circular wall of ambience. // 10

Lyrics and Singing: Let's be clear: this isn't a Year Zero "everything you know is wrong" album. As Chris Martin says, they're too much in love with communal anthems to adopt the standard "if anyone else likes it, it's a bonus" attitude. It an album with words that sound great and interesting but don't make a lot of sense. There are moments of brilliance, and moments of madness. // 8

Impression: If X&Y can be seen as ending a trilogy, how much of Coldplay's new influences can be detected this time round? Tinariwen, Rammstein, MBV and Gershwin have been mentioned. There's no sign of Rammstein, but the others are there. Anyone who hates Coldplay won't be swayed, and the lyrics can be a bit trite at times. But it's a reminder that, sometimes, big is best. // 9

overall: 9.3

Reviewed by: GuitaristJade, on june 19, 2008

Sound: Well, it is definatly soft rock. Very different from their old stuff. Some songs like "Yes", are pretty weird. It's different, but not bad. I personally love the song "Viva La Vida". It had an awesome beat, plus an awesome chord progression. They also loved using violins in this album. So you'll hear a lot of violins in the songs. They always used a different main instrument in every album I think. In Parachutes, they used a lot of guitar, in AROBTTH, they used a lot of piano, in X&Y, they used a lot of synth, and now in Viva La Vida, they used a lot of violins or violin sounding synth. So yes, it sounds a lot different from what you'd think. But, it still has the taste of Coldplay we all recognize, just a little different, and just as relaxing and awesome as their old stuff. // 9

Lyrics and Singing: I haven't really studied their lyrics. But this is Chris Martin we're all talking about here. He writes some pretty crazy stuff. They're all good lyrics, but their just weird. I have nothing against them, they're just good and enjoyable. They all flow and good on the ears. // 10

Impression: Great album. Definatly a keeper. It's a little different from what you'd think. But, it still has the same great taste of Coldplay we all recognize, just a little different, and just as relaxing and awesome as their old stuff. Buy the album when it comes out on June 17th. Prepare yourself for some awesome soft rock people. // 9

overall: 8.7

Reviewed by: JerSim94, on july 15, 2008

Sound: I believe that the album was as good, if not better, than "A Rush Of Blood To The Head". I like the drawings they did in the information pamplet to show each song in a different way. The pictures were very near what I think when I hear the songs; the vibrant colors, etc. The sounds were vintage Coldplay, synth, short, definitive guitar solos, and the speakeasy singings of Chris Martin. There was only one inovation, but that was only involved in certain songs; the two-beat songs, such as "Lovers In Japan" was new to me from Coldplay, because They had two songs in one. Overall, quite a good sound from a good band. // 9

Lyrics and Singing: I think that some of the lyricism was a bit different. Most of the songs' lyrics were good, but some of the lyrics just seemed like they were there just to rhyme. On every song, the music went fantastically with the lyrics. The singing skills of Chris Martin aren't that good. The way he sings is a talk-sing mix, and, though Coldplay is one of the only bands to do that, they still need to pick up the action. They only did that in two songs on thw whole album, "Viva La Vida", and "Violet Hill", but that is a start. // 8

Impression: I think that it is similar to all of Coldplay's albums. It was highly anticipated, but no one expected what was to be on it, so it let a few people down. The most impressive songs are "Yes", "Strawberry Swing", "Violet Hill", "Lost", and "Cemetaries of London". I love the perfect colaberation of all of the music, for it sounds perfect on almost every song. I hate the safeness of the album. I wish Chris Martin would take a chance, and sing through a whole song without talk-singing. If it were stolen, I would probably buy it again without a thought. This really was an impressive album. // 9

overall: 6.3

Reviewed by: unregistered, on june 19, 2008

Sound: Coldplay changed their sound a lot. In comparison with "X&Y", their music is slower, less melodic and more based on rhythm. They very emotional synth, and guitar parts (Speed Of Sound, Fix You), witch, in a way, defined the band the last years, are completely gone. People who like the style of "X&Y" may be disappointed by "Viva La Vida", and people who were not satisfied with the 2005-release may appreciate the new side of the band. // 5

Lyrics and Singing: It's too early for a deep analysis of the lyrics. The first impression is that the lyrics are not as important as the were on the previous records. There are more instrumental parts. The new sound is not so suitable to Chris Martin's voice. In a way it is a pity that he does not (can not) show all his skills on this album. // 8

Impression: "Viva La Vida" is definitely something new. Coldplay made a clear break to the sound they createt and developed for so many years. The record has only ten songs, my favorite one are "Cemeteries Of London", "Lovers In Japan" and "Viva La Vida". All in all, I'm pretty disappointed. I expected a follow-up to "X&Y", a record which has a clear direction. It looks like Coldplay searched for new influences and tried to set them together. For me, it ended in a failure. // 6

Comments

[_bacon_]

Is that it? I'm gonna write a review for this once I hear it.

[Strati]

I agree with that there is alot of directions on the record. An unpleasing ammount of directions. It's way too scattered all over the place and not as constructive as X@Y or Rush of... I can't say it's as an appealing sound this time.

[ezza61]

It definably is a bit "scattered", but I still enjoy every minute of it. Favs are: Lost! and Death and All of his Friends

[postiejim]

uter crap from the kings of blan

[postiejim]

[quote]postiejim wrote:

uter crap from the kings of bland

[mvtan]

viva la vida is such an awesome song

[Anthony1991]

Faveourite album by far, this kicks ass, i love coldplay even more than ever!

[mlukeroberts222]

How is this band considered "rock" music? Coldplay freaking sucks! I wouldn't take this album if someone tried to give it to me, nor will I ever listen to it and waste my time. Good luck "rocking" to Coldplay you pansies!

[thycrusader]

mlukeroberts222 wrote:

How is this band considered "rock" music? Coldplay freaking sucks! I wouldn't take this album if someone tried to give it to me, nor will I ever listen to it and waste my time. Good luck "rocking" to Coldplay you pansies!

no one likes flamers or was it 5-year old children? either way they're both equally annoying with no diversity in music "beCuz I onNNley ListnZZ To MetalLlLZ and Rok and roLL!!11!!1"

[ragnarqk]

i adore this music, and not because they're a rock band. it's because i like pleasant sounds and coldplay always delivers.

[CasanovaBass]

Ok, so you Metalhead UGers don't like Coldplay. Look at it like this.
You may listen to metal because it rocks, sounds awesome, is great live, or whatever. Apply that same thinking to a band like Coldplay. How do they sound? Pretty good to the ear. How are they live? A whole stadium is joined as one. No skill in the guitar work, you say? So why is the music as a whole deeper and more substantial than some metal will ever be.
Music is about listening.

[3dd_bggst_fan]

mlukeroberts222 wrote:

How is this band considered "rock" music? Coldplay freaking sucks! I wouldn't take this album if someone tried to give it to me, nor will I ever listen to it and waste my time. Good luck "rocking" to Coldplay you pansies!

WHAT THE CRAP!! if every band was made for rocking out to, we wouldnt have rock music. the genre started out with Elvis and the Beatles. hav fun rocking out to them. ignorance annoys the crap out of me. and think about this, wat evr it is, coldplay is doing something right, THEY'RE freaking millionaires! can you, "do want fries with that"?

[mosh_rocker2006]

One...if you don't like coldplay then don't bother wasting our time commenting with absolute nonsense...yes that means you mlukeroberts222.

As for the album...it's good...there's a lot to be heard in each song. I'm still not sure how i feel about it compared to X&Y because that album was marvelous. But this album is good.

[aliceinnirvana]

Eh, I like a few Coldplay songs here and there, but this album as a whole touched me like the others: I've heard better. There are some songs that put me to sleep, and these are frequent. But every now and then there is a gem that fills me with awe. However, I think that Coldplay is often overrated, despite them having great talents. I can see them doing better.

[joker_thief]

ignoring the idiots who sometimes post shit on here about coldplay, i think this album was a little different but an altogether solid release by Coldplay

[xTheVulcan]

I loved this album. It's a good change of pace for me, and Viva la Vida is just a masterpiece in my opinion. Well done Coldplay.

[3dd_bggst_fan]

i bout this album a couple days ago and its fantastic. Viva La Vida, Cemetaries of London, Technicolor...masterpieces! that being said, the only thing i dont like is, that it doesnt really change alot throughout the album. never the less, it was worth buying the whole CD instaed of getting individual songs off of iTunes.

[6cradle6of6filt]

Its GENESIS!!!!!

[swinghead]

I dont want to offend anyone and i apologize with coldplay fans, still i think their song are an insult to every decent musician working his ass to the bone not getting half a glass of beer. Even New York times journalists defined them a useless band and this album is here to prove this statement once again. Its not about my likes and dislikes, its about good and bad music! Dont get fooled! and most important dont get angry coldplay fans and sympathizers : cmon... get yourself some culture bout music

[swinghead]

it was just an opinion

[SOADFanSince'98]

swinghead wrote:

cmon... get yourself some culture bout music

Get yourself a better translator.

[benrochlin]

Its not a bad album... i just expected more after the time theyve off... the odd good song and some good melodies but it leaves you wanting more. Theres nothing epic.

[Kurdt2k]

swinghead wrote:

I dont want to offend anyone and i apologize with coldplay fans, still i think their song are an insult to every decent musician working his ass to the bone not getting half a glass of beer. Even New York times journalists defined them a useless band and this album is here to prove this statement once again. Its not about my likes and dislikes, its about good and bad music! Dont get fooled! and most important dont get angry coldplay fans and sympathizers : cmon... get yourself some culture bout music

You sound so arrogant...it doesnt mean someone isn't musically cultured just because they have a different opinion to yours. I am into several genres of music and enjoy Coldplay...their music is simple, yet still inventive and very inspired. People are entitled to their opinion and questioning their knowledge because of this is unfair. That is all...

[Kozworth]

Their new record is quite marvelous. It's just good music, you can't fight that.

[SixStrings]

i have listened to the new album probably 5 times through thus far, and i know it is a better album than x&y already, simpily because i felt x&y was on the verge of being a little too over produced. viva is a little more produced than the first two albums, but still contains great material. and i think in months to come personally "a rush of blood to the head" will still be my favorite coldplay album to date, with viva and parachutes a close second. x&y wasn't a bad album either, but it was the closest coldplay has ever come to selling out to the fans of theirs that only like them for their songs "the scientist", and/or "clocks". with all of this being said i absolutely love coldplay and what they have done for music so quickly in their careers!

[ms_tickley]

it is a better album than x and y simply because that was their worst album, i liked viva okay but i felt that their was just too much noise/ too many layers on some tracks

[nothingman34]

I LOVE this album!! If you don't really like it, give it another try and see what you think. This is definitely their best album instrumentally. I was kinda dissapointed in X&Y, because i just loved Parachutes and AROBTTH so much. Coldplay's change in style was a great choice, in my opinion.
P.S. - You should really check out 42! It's now one of my favorite Coldplay songs of all time, and the best on this album

[Red Exodus]

It's music for christ's sake, what's with these morons commenting on a band they don't even listen to? Is this what heavy metal teaches these 10 year olds?

[Bozjoarmstrong]

congratulations to whoever wrote the last review (they only gave it a 6/10)
i havent heard the album yet, but it was nice to see some honesty rather than just cobbling together another 10/10. in all fairness, the album may be a 10/10 album for all i know, but its nice to see someone give a different opinion

[pratt121]

I wouldn't expect Coldplay to be super-well received on a rock forum because they're not a classic guitar-rock band. They're sort of... piano-driven rock with pop overtones.

Until VLV that is -- what a step forward.

[DJThor]

Does Coldplay even have a guitarist?

[StonedFire]

Good Band, Great Musicians. As for the haters if you don't like the band why come here and bash them. You actually think your going to change someone's mind in here who like them to hate them. Moran's! Most of the haters that come in here dress in all black shop at hot topic get picked on in school and can't adapt to a normal human life so they bash bands to express themselves.. Losers!

[riteso]

Dont listen to these guys much but i can tell that they have to be doing something right if they have such a good fanbase. Ignore some of those dickheads who are just all heavy metal, i love heavy metal but i can respect other varieties of music. Those dickheads just give metal a bad reputation and shouldnt be that way cause there is some awesome heavy metal. Look up master of puppets and you'll see. There are awesome melodies on it, some of them not a million miles away from this sort of music

[OzarkMDaredevil]

Obviously some of you haven't heard the album at all....Or old Coldplay. Violet Hill definitely has guitar in it, and many of their first albums do too(The EP Brothers and Sisters).

[steve_muse]

Viva La Vida is amazing!

[moby zeppelin]

mlukeroberts222 wrote:

How is this band considered "rock" music? Coldplay freaking sucks! I wouldn't take this album if someone tried to give it to me, nor will I ever listen to it and waste my time. Good luck "rocking" to Coldplay you pansies!

yeah i felt the same way about radiohead until i actually listened to the music now i enjoy both bands, as they are both excellent to the ear and perfectly supplement my heavy metal and classic rock (but the new radiohead album sucks)
viva la vida is by far coldplays best and deserves to be bought, it is definitely soft but not as boring as a rush of blood to the head

[Luke.Zeppelin]

everytime i hear yellow by coldplay i want to kill myself its that bad

[Wesseem]

i like this album alot, unfortunately i don't feel it's as good as a rush of blood to the head or X and Y. I personally only liked 4 songs from vivala vida and the rest are hard to really listen to or care about. hopefully it grows on me, but as for now ill continue to listen to their other albums more than i listen to this one.

[Brad52]

CasanovaBass wrote:

Ok, so you Metalhead UGers don't like Coldplay. Look at it like this.
You may listen to metal because it rocks, sounds awesome, is great live, or whatever. Apply that same thinking to a band like Coldplay. How do they sound? Pretty good to the ear. How are they live? A whole stadium is joined as one. No skill in the guitar work, you say? So why is the music as a whole deeper and more substantial than some metal will ever be.
Music is about listening.

i usually only listen to metal/metalcore music and i used to think coldplay sucked. but then i started realizing that you cant always just "rock out" to music. i find coldplay a breath of fresh air and very calming music to listen to. so not all metalheads hate coldplay

[food&liquor]

Brad52 wrote:
so not all metalheads hate coldplay

wow i can honestly say i didn't know that.

anyways...

this album is great! took a while to grow on me but now i love it, strawberry swing and lovers in japan are always stuck in my head. to me its my second favourite album from them, after rush of blood.

[food&liquor]

mlukeroberts222 wrote:

How is this band considered "rock" music? Coldplay freaking sucks! I wouldn't take this album if someone tried to give it to me, nor will I ever listen to it and waste my time. Good luck "rocking" to Coldplay you pansies!

it doesn't have to 'rock' to be good. and you dont have to put on a macho facade to show us how you much you 'rock'. seriously. grow up.

[StonedFire]

Luke.Zeppelin wrote:

everytime i hear yellow by coldplay i want to kill myself its that bad

Every time you judge a band that is far more advanced musically than you. Thats when you should end it!

[Dgfduck]

I'm tired of people complaining saying that Coldplay is trying to be U2 or something.
If you're a true Coldplay fan, you'll accept that this is actually pretty much the same Coldplay.
The song Viva La Vida has great lyrics, but I don't see how it's become the most popular Coldplay song overnight.
Violet Hill, 42, and Cemeteries of London dominate this album for me, as a fan.
I like all kinds of music, even metal, so don't diss thier chill style.
I'm glad Brian Eno produced, because I very much enjoy a little ambience in my Coldplay.
Viva La Vida. Coldplay forever.

[red157]

I really don't know whether to listen to this album. X&Y was shite, simple as. And Viva La Vida the song, which is meant to be their great return to form (So says the fans of the album that I've read) is also pretty shite.

[Deepkanwal]

Remember Coldplay saying they were going to go experimental...my foot.

I read an article that said something like Coldplay takes their sharp experimental influences (Radiohead, Sigur Ros etc) and dulls of the corners.

That's pretty much how I would describe the album. It's a good listen but, not as great as the artists that inspired it. Still, there's a few gems on that album. Loved Lost!, Strawberry Swing, Technicolour, Yes and a few others. 42 was amazing musically, but a bit weak (IMO) lyrically. Still, my favourite Coldplay album and a vast improvement over X&Y.

8/10

[Deepkanwal]

red157 wrote:

I really don't know whether to listen to this album. X&Y was shite, simple as. And Viva La Vida the song, which is meant to be their great return to form (So says the fans of the album that I've read) is also pretty shite.

It's a improvement over X&Y. Their two choices for singles were a bit poor (especially Violet Hill) IMO but if you really hated past Coldplay albums, you'll probably dislike this one.

[Rock'n'Roller]

screw you all
i'm a metalhead and i love them
one of my favourite modern bands along with muse and...
well...
nevermind
I LIKE COLDPLAY

[Anti Vicarious]

No one can deny that Viva La Vida is the coolest ****ing song to blast when you are stoned out of your mind.

[Dragon Master]

Coldplay has incredible songs and this is a testament to creativity. It may attempt to be too novel, but the fact is, it's a great album!

[swaxq123]

food&liquor wrote:

mlukeroberts222 wrote:

How is this band considered "rock" music? Coldplay freaking sucks! I wouldn't take this album if someone tried to give it to me, nor will I ever listen to it and waste my time. Good luck "rocking" to Coldplay you pansies!

it doesn't have to 'rock' to be good. and you dont have to put on a macho facade to show us how you much you 'rock'. seriously. grow up.

well put. Personally i love this band. They write fantastic music and i think this album is awesome. All the lil kids milling around here like "OMGZ THE GUITARIST ISNT DISTORTED THIS SUCKZ!" jus p**s me off

[gareno]

im digging vive la vida's artwork, i dont know why but its awesome, hate to admit but their old artworks were unoriginal and kinda sucky

[jedichewy]

what is metal anyway? just a bunch of noise.
i really like this band and this new album is ok. my favorite is x&y... viva la vida, its just totally different and scattered as mentioned. but then again... we are all different. so enjoy it if your a coldplay fan. i am but i need to listen to it more to let it grow on me.

[b101]

swinghead wrote:
Its not about my likes and dislikes, its about good and bad music!

what an ignorant statement! To be honest I've never liked Coldplay until this album, but the one thing I'd say about their songwriting is that it's tasteful, certainly not 'bad music'. Just because he doesn't play triplets at 200 bpm or sweep everything doesn't mean it's bad music ffs. Look at the riffs in Violet Hill and the intro track - feel free to write better ones...

[cobain_is_king]

I saw on Channel 4 news today they totally ripped off an old song with their new single haha, I think they're getting done for it.

[Rock God #1]

I've been looking for a good reason to like Coldplay for quite a long time now. Viva La Vida has become that reason...what a cracking, heartfelt album.

[duncang]

I still really need to get this.

[samerika]

i would pay any cent for this record, because i really dont like coldplay. but the cover of the album is just kick ass

[terrencemaddox]

gareno wrote:

im digging vive la vida's artwork, i dont know why but its awesome, hate to admit but their old artworks were unoriginal and kinda sucky

You like it because you have good taste. The cover is Delacroix's Liberty Leading the People. It's a masterpiece.

[MonstaMan]

violet hill is a good song imo, but haven't really heard the rest of the album

now on 2 the flamin and shit: there are 2 sides to the argument!!! ok so coldplay haven't got very intracate guitar parts and they did wet their beds at college, but indie/alternative is completely different from metal (u can't just say "coldplay are shit long live annotations of an autopsy br00000tal!!!!) and for indie, this is actually quite good!

[Fenderfoo92]

ok this album is pure GENIUS. all the ppl here saying the albums suck obvious like it cause they had to have listened to the WHOLE album to actually properly critique it. Their just trying to act tough so no one thinks their "pansies" or "gay". u cant call a band "gay" just because they actually sing rather than shout an entire song.

[bajasg]

Personally I think a few songs are a little too repetitive and overdone but its not the worst album out there.

[mrbiscuits315]

Is it just me or does their drummer have the a one piece drum set.

[avneetsidhu]

this is an amazing CD... coldplay ventures off into a new sound but stays true to their roots. it's a more adventurous CD which would appeal to all ears.

[blacksheep7475]

mlukeroberts222 wrote:

How is this band considered "rock" music? Coldplay freaking sucks! I wouldn't take this album if someone tried to give it to me, nor will I ever listen to it and waste my time. Good luck "rocking" to Coldplay you pansies!

thats pure ignorance, heres a person that refuses to listen to anything but rock and metal if u like music u should be open to other types and yes i like metal and coldplay

[k0r105]

lol where are the mods? holy flaming :p

[skynyrdkoku1]

"Coldplay delivers plenty of “Scientist”-like material on Viva La Vida"

That's the most ludicrous statement I've ever heard. This album sounds anything but their previous work. In no way does anything on this album even come close to the greatness of any little piece of previous work by this band. It's a completely different direction and an incredibly disappointing one at that. Coldplay has transformed themselves from Music Gods into experimental embarrassments.

[hothot]

I can't stand any of your arguing. Music is an artform. An artform that's opinionated. Get over it. Some people don't like it; oh well. I'll agree, they don't have to come on and bash the artist, but to sit and ramble about "the rockers" instead of the artist is an insult and down-right shame. Keep it focused on the album. By the way, I personally love all music with good intent, good lyrics, and that make you think. Many genres fill these categories, and so does Coldplay!!

[tbrown8890]

I've never liked Coldplay before seeing the Ipod commercial. I downloaded and listened to Viva La Vida and loved it. I'm looking into their past albums right now.

[longhornchad200]

My brother downloaded this album and I've been listening to it, it's amazing. Honestly it goes with their natural progression if you listen to parachutes as opposed to rush of blood as opposed to X&Y This is just another step on their progression as a band, another thing is that this one really they've progressed into a bigger and more muture sound and perhaps some of these people aren't equipped to handle it because they need a three minute pop song or else they lose focus.

[xXChimairaXx]

man i listen to heaviest music all day long, but dang there's nothing like COLDPLAY to soothe the senses and calm you down.

those guys are awesome. RADIOHEAD aint got nothing on them.

[antareus]

The new album really grows on you. I almost wrote it off completely.

[petrucci_owns86]

xXChimairaXx wrote:

man i listen to heaviest music all day long, but dang there's nothing like COLDPLAY to soothe the senses and calm you down.

those guys are awesome. RADIOHEAD aint got nothing on them.

The man has a point.

[titan05gt]

Hey guys! I'm one of those guys that LOVE metal (and I'm talking about the true metal not the "-core" shit) and I have to say that coldplay is one of my guilty pleasures. They have this amazing sound to them and it just relaxes every part of me. In my opinion, it talkes more talent to make a hit with a song with a really catchy riff that is simple, than hundreds of meaningless riffs that are just there so people praise them for being amaing musicians.

[macfan90]

thats a Delacroix painting on the cover! BA

[macfan90]

I'll give it a solid 6.9/10

[mattyp90]

No album deserves 1/10.

Really, no album.

All that guy wanted to do was bring down the overall score, just like people who put 10/10 want to make it higher.
Just put what you actually think instead of ruining the review system. It's fucking annoying.

[CasanovaBass]

P1ayingW1thF1re wrote:
Oh boy, another ignorant idiot. I think I'll kill myself now.

"My favourite genre of music is Metal, and I'm an elitist, so I don't like yours" - P1ayingW1thF1re's profile.

I rest my case?

[notoriousF A T]

Luke.Zeppelin wrote:

everytime i hear yellow by coldplay i want to kill myself its that bad

please do it and save us all from your pointless comments

swinghead wrote:

I dont want to offend anyone and i apologize with coldplay fans, still i think their song are an insult to every decent musician working his ass to the bone not getting half a glass of beer. Even New York times journalists defined them a useless band and this album is here to prove this statement once again. Its not about my likes and dislikes, its about good and bad music! Dont get fooled! and most important dont get angry coldplay fans and sympathizers : cmon... get yourself some culture bout music

if you didnt want to offend anyone maybe you should've worded your paragraph a lot better. who cares about what the new york times said or anyone for that matter. People will like what they like and thats the end of it. Why can't useless flamers just go headband into a brick wall instead of saying how crappy this or that band is because they arent heavy enough. If every band sounded like metal then there'd be new point to music cause who wants to listen to the same old thing constantly?

p.s. Im really okay with people stating they're opinions and all, i dont even care if you like or hate coldplay. All i ask is that you're not an ******* when you state your opinion.

[notoriousF A T]

If every band sounded like metal then there'd be NO* point to music

[Deepkanwal]

skynyrdkoku1 wrote:

"Coldplay delivers plenty of “Scientist”-like material on Viva La Vida"

That's the most ludicrous statement I've ever heard. This album sounds anything but their previous work. In no way does anything on this album even come close to the greatness of any little piece of previous work by this band. It's a completely different direction and an incredibly disappointing one at that. Coldplay has transformed themselves from Music Gods into experimental embarrassments.

This album is NOT experimental! It's still Rock/Pop music, just on a different direction than their past albums.

And I'm quite happy they changed their sound, even though it's only a small transformation. Personally I was hoping for an album on the experimentation level of Kid-A album, but I'm not complaining with what they came out with.

[Deepkanwal]

xXChimairaXx wrote:
those guys are awesome. RADIOHEAD aint got nothing on them.

LOL. You're entitled to you're own opinion, but still. Radiohead are in a different league compared to Coldplay. Radiohead have evolved from a typical Brit-Rock band to an incredible art rock band. Coldplay's pallet is different shades of beige compared to Radiohead.

And also, who do you think Coldplay ripped of in thier early stuff?

[Thom Yorke]

CasanovaBass wrote:

Ok, so you Metalhead UGers don't like Coldplay. Look at it like this.
You may listen to metal because it rocks, sounds awesome, is great live, or whatever. Apply that same thinking to a band like Coldplay. How do they sound? Pretty good to the ear. How are they live? A whole stadium is joined as one. No skill in the guitar work, you say? So why is the music as a whole deeper and more substantial than some metal will ever be.
Music is about listening.

I don't hate Coldplay - I do really quite like a few of their songs but I think you're very wrong to suggest that they're more talented than most metal bands - and no offence but they're not good live, they have no intensity and they just run through their biggest hits in a very roundabout way.

And before anyone accuses me of flaming - I'm fed up with people saying that anyone who likes metal immediately dismisses all other music because we don't, but everyone who doesn't really listen to metal dismisses it as a genre

[FunkyCrime!!]

swinghead wrote:

I dont want to offend anyone and i apologize with coldplay fans, still i think their song are an insult to every decent musician working his ass to the bone not getting half a glass of beer. Even New York times journalists defined them a useless band and this album is here to prove this statement once again. Its not about my likes and dislikes, its about good and bad music! Dont get fooled! and most important dont get angry coldplay fans and sympathizers : cmon... get yourself some culture bout music

Of all the 'anti-coldplay' comments on here, I think this has to be the most ignorant of them all. Okay, so there's no childish cursing or flaming, but a great child-like naivety or just blind ignorance. I'm not offended, just confused as to why this is bad music? Chris Martin is an extremely talented musician, as exemplified on this album and previous ones. Whether his music fits your preference is a different argument, but to say that it's bad music is just embarrassing. Furthermore, your ignorance is textured by your articulation, phrasing your words as if you're better than everybody else, that you're doing us all a favour by shedding you're wisdom with us and advising us to steer clear of this music, please, keep you're wise words to yourself.

[bright-eyes]

Definitely my least favorite Coldplay album. It's not bad but I was disappointed when I picked it up and popped it in the car cd player on the way home. I wish I would have listened to it online first.

[shieldnoshield]

I can't believe all the hate on this board! My top 4 artists are Linkin Park , Coldplay, 2Pac and Dave Matthews Band. Why can't you haters accept that there is no such thing as 'bad' music, that music is solely based on opinion? I like rock and metal quite a bit, in fact I'd say that Shinedown's new release The Sound of Madness is as good as Viva la Vida (and not just the softer songs). Listen to No More Sorrow by Linkin Park - that's pretty heavy, and I love it. Then again, 2Pac's Changes is amazing. Not to mention Coldplay songs like Talk. Just open your minds (if you're haters). And if you complain that there's no guitar in Coldplay, clearly you have no idea what guitar is. As for the album itself, I think it shows a great progression, but I like X&Y a little (a LITTLE) better. However, I have confidence that Coldplay will continue to bring great music to the world.

[devzors]

Chris Martin made a reference to Bob Dylan in describing how Rock has no soft, heavy, right, or wrong. This statement is certainly true, so argue on about which preferences or opinions are true. I love the controversy over this band though.

Tip of the cap to Death and All His Friends(How I prefer to call the album). Very unpredictable and IMO creative. I am not an elaborate musician and therefore cannot give that justification to my argument, but this album takes so many twists and plateaus that I'm still listening to it several times per day. Great.

Also... I encourage people to investigate Coldplay more, for they are contagious.

[desol89]

It seems to me like one of the largest factors influencing peoples' opinion of an album is the artists' previous work. Previous albums set expectation and tastes in a listener's head and they will perceive their album based on previous work.

It's hard to say there's a fixed pattern to that though. As for me, I only got into Coldplay after their release of X&Y, so I imbibed all of their work in one big intake and loved it all. Personally I think this new album is an absolute masterpiece! They've developed a darker and more instrumental edge to themselves while still churning out beautiful chimes and echoes all over the place. I will agree that Chris Martin's vocals are drowned out quite a bit- but not enough to bring down the album by any means.

Simply put- if you loved Coldplay all the way through X&Y I guarantee you'll love the album.

[Deepkanwal]

devzors wrote:

Chris Martin made a reference to Bob Dylan in describing how Rock has no soft, heavy, right, or wrong. This statement is certainly true, so argue on about which preferences or opinions are true. I love the controversy over this band though.

Tip of the cap to Death and All His Friends(How I prefer to call the album). Very unpredictable and IMO creative. I am not an elaborate musician and therefore cannot give that justification to my argument, but this album takes so many twists and plateaus that I'm still listening to it several times per day. Great.

Also... I encourage people to investigate Coldplay more, for they are contagious.

I agree about the twists and turns on this album. Definitely increases the re-play value for the album.

[BaconFrenzy117]

devzors wrote:

Chris Martin made a reference to Bob Dylan in describing how Rock has no soft, heavy, right, or wrong. This statement is certainly true, so argue on about which preferences or opinions are true. I love the controversy over this band though.

Tip of the cap to Death and All His Friends(How I prefer to call the album). Very unpredictable and IMO creative. I am not an elaborate musician and therefore cannot give that justification to my argument, but this album takes so many twists and plateaus that I'm still listening to it several times per day. Great.

Also... I encourage people to investigate Coldplay more, for they are contagious.

I agree, this is a great album.... While nothing can compete with "Parachutes" it is good in its own right..... And no more comparisons to Radiohead. The two bands are differnt. Different styles completely.

[Chosenfro68]

I enjoyed the album. If you hated it, put a review about it. Afterall, that's what this page is about.

[Loki0012]

Im a person who's open to any kind of music and coldplay has caught my ear so far especially their other albums its just pure excellence i wouldnt expect soft rock to be my fav... I like Disturbed songs,Muse, THe killers, green day and all those rock bands but overall coldplay is still the best ... after hearing the first to singles im expecting and knowing that the others would be as grand as the two... so i give the album a 9/10 becoz im not sure yet coz i havent got the whole album yet but listened to some songs! Good stuuff! Coldplay will be my influence in my music life.

[Third3ye]

SixStrings wrote:
x&y wasn't a bad album either, but it was the closest coldplay has ever come to selling out to the fans of theirs that only like them for their songs "the scientist", and/or "clocks". with all of this being said i absolutely love coldplay and what they have done for music so quickly in their careers!

Well said. X&Y was such an uninspired re-hash of typical Coldplay sound that I was very doubtful about anything that would come afterward. But reading this page has changed my mind. I don't care whether it sounds like Eno had too much influence or if it sounds like they became a mariachi band, I just want something new from a band that has proven to be worth a damn.

[[[It's Alex]]]

I loveeee this album. Such a good album.
I try not to overanalyse anything and just enjoy the music ;]

*wipes brow*

Checked.

[guitarsolo_17]

so i won't diss the album itself, i haven't take the time to listen, and probably won't, but the title song really worries me, if more than one band is claiming plagiarism on it, and the melody sounds very much like something Satch did on If I Could Fly, you really do have to wonder

[brentondig]

Great album! Very enjoyable.

P.S. I'm listening to Immortal right now. Great Black Metal band. I love metal, and I also listen to Coldplay. Whatever, if you enjoy a certain kind of music, then that's fine. No reason to judge either one, eg. No Metalheads vs. Coldplay, or Coldplay fans vs. Metal. Everyone has their own opinion though!

[SG-Jack]

mrbiscuits315 wrote:

Is it just me or does their drummer have the a one piece drum set.

Either you, or the bands you listen to don't have the balls to just use one drum.

I think that was a risk worth taking, and suited Viva La Vida (the song) perfectly.

[dudeman_andy]

coldplay just get better and better in my eyes, i absolutely love this album. alternative pop ftw!

[Whit_f-ing_ROX]

love 42

[daguitar69]

yeah!!
METALLICA up to your ass!!!




oh geat album by coldplay by the way.

[job153]

this is one of my fav Coldplay albums now. BTW I think this is the very first Review that I've read that has some civility and didnt turn into a flame fest! Im scared:P

[rageagainst64]

my friend got this album. she skipped the intro track, and number 2 is just house of the rising sun with different words.

the rest was boring as hell.

[thenuggetman]

The first time i heard the album, i thought it was quite weak. I mean, where was the guitar/drum edge that permeated prior albums. This album seemed like an techno studio album that was so different and quite disappointing. But after listening to it about another 20 times, I think its a genius. Totally awesome. Very different from prior albums but oh it grows you, the melodies, beats, its a must own for any Cold Play fan. I rate it a 10. AWESOME!!!

[StratDune]

"my friend got this album. she skipped the intro track, and number 2 is just house of the rising sun with different words."

that shows how attentively you heard the album before coming