Premature Evaluation: Coldplay - Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends
We all got to listen to Viva La Vida today, so we're sort of in the same boat here. Press play, and the album starts with "Life In Technicolor," a shimmery piece of keys and electronics that eventually moves into a "Where The Streets Have No Name"-y, lyricless rev-up, all of which is an announcement: Hey, did you hear we got Brian Eno to do this record? Hey, we did -- and now we're sorta hoping this to be Coldplay's Joshua Tree. Unfortunately, that it is not. But it is great at not being X&Y, which is a major accomplishment. Over three albums, Chris Martin found a simple and relatively understated formula for successful songwriting: melodically, he hit it on Parachutes -- verse, verse up an octave, falsetto hook -- expanded it on Rush Of Bood, and made an overblown parody of it on that last one. If nothing else, this album shows the band is thinking, and is self aware: say hello to less falsetto, different song structures, and a legendary producer. Already we're off to a good start.
Coldplay's been talking of wanting a Reinvention, a reinvention of everything but the fact that they are a massive seller. Balancing an artistic shift with maintaining commercial appeal is not easy (see: rock history). But let's at least start with giving props to the band for recognizing there was a problem with their last album, no matter how many millions (10 of 'em, actually) it sold: you can't just keep rewriting your hits (see: "Speed Of Sound" is "Clocks," "Fix You" is "The Scientist," etc.) and expect people not to catch on. To that point: We called "Viva La Vida" a rut buster, and the same can be said for the record. Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends is exactly the record this band needed to make: a slightly shifted Coldplay album, with some memorable moments, some new tricks, and an overall emotionality that will appeal to anyone who's ever liked a Coldplay song.
So, those new tricks? Well for one there's the Eno touch, adding Edge-y guitars here, peripheral haze there, making the U2 comparisons more firm and run deeper than big arm poses, world saving politics, and arena-filling intent. Actually Coldplay's never been shy about confessing the bands they pilfer from -- Travis, Radiohead, Echo & the Bunnymen -- and the new artists that turn up in the sonic stew are ones they've similarly copped to liking publicly, and vocally. Last year Chris talked about being in the studio, saying for one song the wanted to "steal ... from My Bloody Valentine." Sure enough the last two minutes of "Yes" -- the "hidden track" (un)titled "Chinese Sleep Chant" -- hits with some unexpected, nice Loveless-lite shoegazing. Next, try taking it 2:45 into "42" and past the Radiohead-indebted middle section. Hear a sudden gearshift into Arcade Fire? It's not just your ears, and it's not just the newfound theatrical band attire -- Chris thinks they're the "the best band in history."
Wind your way through the bittersweet, chanting album closer "Death And All his Friends," and the record concludes with two minutes of that very same music that introduced it during "Life In Technicolor," only now with lyrics: a rephrased nod to Abbey Road's love-ly "The End." Only Coldplay come to a different conclusion: Instead of "in the end the love you take is equal to the love you make," here we learn "in the end we lie awake and dream of making our escape." We don't know how Chris Martin knows that, but it's heavy. In fact there's lots of heavy stuff going on on this record's lyrics, but the title sorta tells you that: Life, Death, and etc. There's God in Chris Martin's house and in his head on the glorified rum-swigging shanty "Cemeteries Of London," he's losing but not lost on, uh, "Lost," and we learn that "those who are dead are not dead but are living in [his] head" on "42," which you should totally tell your friend next time he's shrooming.
His lyrics are still, at best, vague, and at worst, trying to sound important. But that vibe fits the moments that work best, the song portions calculated to be Everyman's soundtrack: the sorta African guitar line in the first half of "Strawberry Swing" and its "such a perfect day," the existential pangs of the organ-laced and worthy "Lost," the uplifting "one day we'll work it out" romance of standout "Lovers In Japan/Reign Of Love," etc. Stack those portions with "Chinese Sleep Chant," and the previously loved up rut buster "Viva La Vida," and you'll find a band that's managed to outweigh the dull moments ("Cemeteries," the last half of "Strawberry," "Yes," for starters).
Chris Martin told the NYTimes, "We would love to be the biggest band in the world, but we understand if you don't want us to be." What's the metric for that these days? Whatever it is, Guy Hands and EMI should be offering a bonus: this album will sell more than any other rock album this year. We'd like to think it's 'cause they made a better record than last time, but the fact that it's already the best selling album presale in iTunes history, and on track to be the highest first week sales of any album in iTunes history, probably refutes that theory. People still want a Biggest Band In The World. And Chris Martin has done everything in his power to play that part.
Oh yeah, there are three other guys in the band, right? Those guys, too.
Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends is out 6/17 via Capitol/EMI.
Posted at 6:42 PM by stereogum in Premature Evaluation
Tags: Coldplay
Glad I'm not the only one who compared them to U2.
Score = -5
This album seperates the true Coldplay fans from those who just like ballad songs like the radio stations that play these over and over again until you didn't wish to own the album they exist on anymore. Everyone is sayin, "they sound like U2?" I don't think Coldplay ever sounded like anyone but themselves. U2 is a band that just puts out them ballad songs you want to hear with the rest of their albums full of garbage you skip over to get to the next ballad....all except for Achtung Baby that is. With Coldplay I beleive each and every song has a possibility of becoming your favorite at any given time. Even now looking back to A Rush of Blood to the Head back then every song was a favorite but DAylight and yet today if I pop that CD in my players that is the first and only song I NEED and WANT to hear off that album. I think the same is true with all their albums they just grow on you and you get a certain feeling or notion from each one individually. Now that they release a political album with different sounds no one wants to listen when really the message is the same about living with love and the expression of love. Sorry to reveal this GUYS! Let me make a brief comparison here to a band like Pearl Jam....they release the album Ten about incest, abuse, mental anguish, hate for a Father, etc...and now they are releasing albums about politics and life. This band has evolved and adapted and grown as had it aged. Coldplay will do the same. These guys are young..let them be young. They will make albums we love, like and maybe even not enjoy as much as the previous ones but Pink Floyd didn't they do the same? The message doesn't need to change...but the sound does...the lyrics do and they need to speak to us in the time were living in...and in this respect I believe Coldplay is one of the few bands that actually does this and does it well. So enjoy it and appreciate it or keep writing how disgusted you are about not having another great ballad or what you wanted. Its not about making music for us...it is for them and they decided to share it with us. If you don't like it or appreciate it then don't listen to it. If you don't feel love you won't feel Coldplay. And its not Coldplay that needs to change but it is the way we percieve and listen to them that does...almost spiritual...like interpreting the Scriptures. Thanks for letting me write my piece. I'm sure not all will agree but if your a true fan of this band I'm sure you will relate.
Score = -5
"Fix You" is "The Scientist", surely?
Score = 1
i like this album a lot.
the "we don't know how Chris Martin knows that, but it's heavy" line was hilarious.
Score = 6
Chris Martin digs Verve. That's enough for me.
Score = -3
this "coldplay" of which you speak, they are a group of musicians, yes? heh. we used to have these groups back when i was a young boy. they would grab whatever instruments they could find on the street- here, an old soda bottle, there, a comb and some dried tissue paper. they were young and strong, these men, and they would stand on the street corners late in the afternoon, after the patrols had passed by. they would make us smile, when there was little to smile about. heh. the impetuousness of youth. i miss those days.
Score = 6
what?
Score = 0
Your review is pure shit, especially the last line. Maybe thats why I've never heard of you guys. Hope your advertising revenue drops and you have to clean toilets to keep the site going.
Score = -116
great idea, that. cleaning toilets is good exercise and gets one in touch with 'the common man.' i for one endorse this line of thinking. where's the comet?
Score = -2
My Review of Viva La Vida by Coldplay
1. Shitty Eno
2. Shitty Folk
3. Shit Spiritualized
4. Shitty In Rainbows
5. A Slightly Shittier Solsbury Hill
6. Shitty Music (Shit Primal Scream)
7. Shit Kate Bush
8. Shit Shit Muse is Shit
9. Shit Vampire Weekend
10. Shit LCD Soundsystem (Followed by Shit Kid A secret track)
Score = -42
haha, shit. that word makes me tickle.
Score = 4
perhaps "shitte" is a better fit ?
relevance is tough to a tough nut to crack ...
first, don;t take yourself too seriously (prince that creep cover youtube story)
check out how eddie vedder & pearl jam keep it real ... & ALIVE
opening night cruzan amphitheater west plam beach florida 2008
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8iCOI5sER1o
Score = -2
You're an idiot. Thanks for showing us how many different bands you listen to. You are really cool.
Oh by the way, you don't actually have to listen to music you don't like and then tell the world you don't like it - you're opinion is not that important. Geez, I don't even like the album that much, but seriously, talk about ignorant.
Score = 1
Sheesh....you know I absolutely love this album!!! The author would otherwise suggest that puts me in the dense croud? I mean, at face value it's just a terrically well crafted and delightful album. I'm not disappointed in the least. Coldplay has delivered something truly refreshing; and it's about damn time! I loved the first 3 albums for distinctively different reasons. I don't care to group the band's efforts as this critic (and the rest) attempt to based on prior offerings or as a product of some desparate attempt to channel creativity by hiring template producers. The album is just pure, great, fun, and that's all there is to it. Like my feelings and those of the rest of the real fans, the blogs speak for themselves. They love VLV overall, and find new reasons to embrace more with each listen. That makes the intensiveness of the wait all the more gratifying. The album is just a beautiful, haunting, sad, shimmering, and lovely piece of art...it's a timeless journey taken with each listen. Don't get caught up in all the nonsensical and confusing rhetoric these critics spew. It's just wasteful drivel to make it appear that they know more than all of us feel!
Score = 4
Wow, Chris Martin is posting as 'Charles Everett'.That's sad.
Score = 5
As angry I was at first...well...that's very funny!!
Score = 1
After all the crap this band has put out, why would you guys even bother listening to them? I am a big Eno fan but even he cannot pull good music from these losers. And comparing their music to U2 is, well an insult to U2! I know a lot of your readers probably hate U2 but they have consistently put out great music and great concerts for over 25 years.
Score = -14
You know, honestly at times I think U2 when I hear the album, but it just sounds so damn good, who cares! I just don't understand the lack of connection some have with Coldplay? A piece of advice; try to let go of U2 for a few minutes and invite them in. They don't bite...and quite honestly, they're good chaps. Give them a chance to grow on you a little. I think they're just trying to enjoy producing good, listenable, music. I don't get the impression by enjoying Coldplay it means that by default you must hate U2. Contrarily, I think they quite admire U2. Regardless, they rock and they're too much fun to be so friggin' tough on. This album is what I've been waiting for; a breath of fresh air. I mean, a lot of music nowadays sucks. You have to wait SUCH a long time to get something good that you can't stop listening to. That doesn't happen often enough. So, please don't be insulted by comparisons that the band themselves aren't driving. Let them be measured by their own efforts.
Score = -2
Stereogum, why bother with a post like this? You know it's just going to attract the Coldplay sheep like a red rag to a bull, and we all know it's not going to make anyone happy.
* Quoting Charles Everett:
-- "I mean, a lot of music nowadays sucks. You have to wait SUCH a long time to get something good that you can't stop listening to."
Hey Charles Everett: how much music do you actually listen to? There's no way you could possibly make that statement if you listen to even a small fraction of some of the great music that has been released recently.
Score = 12
"Coldplay sheep"
sweet irony
Score = -1
So, Joe, what great music has been released recently? I have to admit, Viva La Vida isn't that great of an album, but nothing better (not even "great") has been released recently.
Even Radiohead has been going downhill recently. Music is looking a bit trite at the moment.
Score = -46
i don't even know how to reply to this comment.
Score = 1
Melodically, Lost reminds me quite a bit of Beach House. I'm pretty indifferent to a lot of what everyone's talking about here, but I'm amazed that more people are talking about what they hate about coldplay than those talking about the amazing melodic gift that Chris Martin possesses. Frankly, I'm happy that songwriters from the Paul Mccartney/ Todd Rundgren school of songwriting are still hammering out awesome songs. Most of the criticisms tossed toward Coldplay are equally valid toward Wings, but I'd rather listen to Wings than Captain Beefheart or Joy Division, or any other band that did what it seems to have taken to shield themselves from these criticisms.
Score = -4
Stereogum, why bother with a post like this? You know it's just going to attract the Coldplay haters like a red rag to a bull, and we all know it's not going to make anyone happy.
Blah blah blah. And there is loads of good music coming out at the moment. You're all spending too much time complaining about music and not enough time listening to music.
Score = 9
i found this album all the way through very listenable,
i dont see why you guys dont like it,
it borrows, but what can you do about it?
chris martin has a nice voice, if he wants to pull stuff from here or there and that bothers you, just pretend its a cover.
and seriously how many of you guys that hated this album are going to buy it anyways? what'd you expect?
Score = 2
OK, here are some artists off the top of my head that have released new music (i.e. in the last 2-3 months) that I am loving at the moment:
* Snowman * Ellen Allien * Portishead * Why? * Meshuggah * Nick Cave * Four Tet * Raconteurs
Considering I'm not particularly great at keeping up with super recent releases, that's just a small sampling of what is hot off the presses. And it's all great music! (in my humble opinion)
I'm sorry, but understand that my dislike of the album is not because I hate Coldplay per se. I really would love to hear the band create a work that speaks to me. The reason why I listened to the new album was because I wanted to give them another go - and I thought that maybe they'd come good on their potential, especially partnered with Brian Eno (whose older work I love) and because I know that they've probably got the ability to make a good album.
Score = 2
They should have just taken their own advice and stopped after the second album. At that time they were all like we'll never be able to make a better album (and its true.)
The melodies on Viva la Vida aren't really strong or catchy like Macca OR Joy Division.
I deleted it from my computer and can only remember the part of the album that was on the iPod commercial.
Score = -2
don't waste your time on this.....instead listen to seeing sounds by n.e.r.d. ------- it is actually worth your time.
Score = -12
the title track actually made me laugh out loud the first time i heard it.....so awful....it sounded like UK boy band but slightly better produced....yes it was that bad...hilarious though...if i was reviewing the album, my headline would read something like...'hilarious new title track says it all'...they are like an unintentionally version of flight of the conchords during viva la vida....even the title.....so ridiculous.
Score = -4
since we can't agree on anything, let's stop listening to music entirely. things would be so much easier that way.
Score = 6
I realize your hipster friends might not like Coldplay, but most of you are trying just a bit too hard.
Not a fabulous album, but better than X&Y and maybe even Rush of Blood.
@Joe - They made that album. It was called Parachutes, and that will probably always be their best record.
Score = 5
Joe - you lost me at "Raconteurs"...
Score = 3
Isn't that the trend in music or in fans of music anyways. We are all music snobs. What fun is it to like "the biggest band in the world." That puts you in an association with most of the world. I like Coldplay, and own all of their records, and will buy Viva La Vida when it comes out in the States. Do I expect this CD to change my life, no I doubt it, but I expect that it will be very listen-able and that I will like it. However, as a "music fan" I find my pride in liking bands that are off the radar or that only 250 other people like. And in terms of good music that has been released lately, it is all in the eyes of the fan. Three of my favorite albums released in the last year include Radiohead, Raine Maida and Frightened Rabbit. Aside from Radiohead, I doubt anyone else would concur with my other choices, but they are my choices. All I am saying is that there is GREAT music out there, you just have to look. To pull a hipster move and paraphrase Chuck Klosterman, "I hate when people say they have guilty pleasures when it comes to music, nothing is a guilty pleasure. You either like it or you don't"
Score = 9
Great, fun tunes to listen to. If you don't like it don't listen to it. Stick to your Tom Waits and Arcade Fire albums cause that is all you'll ever enjoy. Who cares if they sound like somebody be it U2, Radiohead, etc. We are all a product of our environment. You are born a blank baby and all your environmental stimuli, auditory included, shape who you are. If you listen to U2 and try to create original music, there is a 99.99% chance it will sound like something U2 would do. Get over it and enjoy that you have a pseudo-U2 album.
Score = 6
" If you listen to U2 and try to create original music, there is a 99.99% chance it will sound like something U2 would do. "
WOW!, I hope that would happen with my music!! I make my own songs and sing here at home but I don't sound like U2!
Score = -3
Anyway, I think this new Brian Eno album featuring Chris Martin on vocals is awesome.
Score = 9
For Coldplay to have stopped after the second album would've been silly; they can milk the general public for many more millions of dollars before heading off into the sunset.
Score = 1
Viva La Vida is a solid album. It's difficult to compare it to Parachutes and Rush of Blood because it's different. And that's a good thing because, while many of you will continue to criticize Coldplay, it surely would've been worse had they released "more of the same". I think Viva, if anything, will allow them to grow as a band.
@ Mike ("...what great music has been released recently?"):
Check out Fleet Foxes and the new Wolf Parade albums for starters. Although, if you think "even Radiohead has been going downhill recently", then I may be wasting my time giving you music suggestions.
Score = 4
Can someone point me to some new music that is totally new, has no influences of any kind, and doesn't sound like U2, Radiohead, Talking Heads, Stones, Beatles or Lou Reed? I want something TOTALLY original. If the people who made it listened to something else and allowed it show up in their new music, then it's false and it's crap.
Score = 13
tood your completely right.
in the end were all gonna die anyway
Score = 9
Why would we ever care about Coldplay in any way? They are basically exactly U2, maybe slightly less shitty. They must have no self respect. They do what they do to make money. Why else would they stick to such a strict substance-lacking formula? If they were real musicians they would want to experiment with different sounds and make music that doesn't just play to the tastes of tasteless 14 year old girls and 15 year old rich Jewish boys. Also, 22 year old chicks who are sort of hot but mostly annoying. Or ugly. Point is, please stop talking about Coldplay, nobody gives a fuck. Seriously, you may as well be blogging about U2 or Paramore or the Jonas Brothers or Hannah Montana or Hilary Duff or fucking Stars. Fuck Stars.
On another note, it was pretty amazing when Greg Gillis mashed 'Clocks' with 'Pump It Up', but mostly only for the novelty of it.
Score = -20
I care about Coldplay. You have obviously never listened to Coldplay.
Score = -1
screw all of you coldplay haters. they are amazing, ingenious, and great musicians. clearly, you don't know what good music is.
and U2 sucks big balls.
Score = -23
screw all of you coldplay haters. they are amazing, ingenious, and great musicians. clearly, you don't know what good music is.
and U2 sucks big balls.
Score = -21
wait, people bad mouthing Coldplay on the premature evaluation on Sterogum? wha?
listen, you people are not cool because you bash coldplay. you don't earn your indie rock brownie points or whatever you are looking for for screaming about how much you love bands no one has ever heard of, and then bashing Coldplay simply because they are so mainstream and soft. You bash them constantly because X&Y Sounded a bit like their previous album? 75% of the bands out today will release an anthology of albums and never change their sound and you wont call them out on. Hell not only every album, but just about every single song by the Ramones sounded identical, but that doesn't lead to you people bashing them every single. Get over your image and give the band an honest look, they are quite good.
Score = -1
i LOVE THE NEW ALBUM!
why does anyone care what other people think? if the album is very good for yourself, you might as well enjoy it with others who also enjoy it. I mean pleaze.
Score = -1
IT IS ALL RUINED BY THE ENORMOUS EGO OF MARTIN - AND OF COURSE EVERYONE AND THEIR PARENTS ARE BUYING THIS, THEY MIGHT AS WELL BE THROWN INTO THE COUNTRY WORLD. THERE ARE BANDS LIKE CENTURY & HE DREAMS AWAKE THAT DON'T EVEN GET WRITE-UPS & THIS SHIT IS HARPED ON, PUKED UP & FORCED DOWN AGAIN. SOMEONE NEEDS TO TELL THEIR SINGER THAT HE ISN'T THE NEXT MESSIAH.
Score = -17
THERE'S THIS SUPER COOL KEY ON YOUR KEYBOARD CALLED THE 'CAPS LOCK' KEY. YOURS MUST BE BROKEN LIKE MINE IS. DRAG, ISN'T IT?
Score = 23
All the Coldplay supporters here have no logic. Coldplay sucks. U2 sucks. Coldplay ends up imitating U2 a lot, intentionally or not. I'm not saying I don't like them because they are unoriginal or influenced by others. It's that their aesthetic sucks, their sound sucks, their music sucks, and on top of that they have a douchey vibe. And HOW THE FUCK would this be about image?? This is anonymous commenting on a music blog, wtf. It's about voicing our opinions on the subject because that's what the 'Comments' box is for. Seriously, anybody can like whatever they want, but it's frustrating seeing people listen to Coldplay when there are literally thousands of better artists they could be hearing. Also, to be fair, I did like the Coldplay song 'Yellow' when it came out. I was also about 9 and also liked the backstreet boys.
Score = -12
Coldplay's viability has now been added alongside such debates as abortion, religion, and the political party divide. I didn't think this would be so important... like what you want to like, dislike what you want to dislike.
Score = 5
well stereogum, you've taken the easy way out again. you don;t say whether you like it or not, you just hint at the blanket statements that have all been said before. you then try to make a point that nobody mentions the other members of the band, but you're pointing your finger at yourselves. you go as far as to credit the producer with the guitar parts, rather than the guitarist. let's look at your other PEs and see how often you mention anyone other than the singer.
easy way out again, stereogum.
ps. i think this is a great album, especially for such a big band. it would be easy for them to put out an album that sounds like the last one, but they really challenge themselves and the listener and seem to go out of their comfort zone. great percussion textures and instrumentation throughout. solid album. of course you wont admit to liking it, SG. actually, you don't really admit to not liking it either...that's why this site is increasingly uninteresting. it's just turned into empty smarm.
Score = 18
The album sounds great. I’m sure a few years down the road we’ll look back and realize how much the band progressed and how some of it amounted to more than money. I wish they would’ve included “A Spell A Rebel Yell” on this album, that song is a definite sign of artistry and a major step forward…all I’ve found is some crappy rip from the radio. I’m sure I’m not the only person who’s truly going to like this album for some time to come. I'd give it a 4/5.
Score = 2
and then the word came down from Wynand to the Banner staff; "plug Coldplay"
Score = 2
This album is way more listenable than X&Y.
From the beginning Coldplay has been about the grand and big, stadium sized anthems. Eno was a smart choice for producer, and he makes the album better. But the above quote that described all the songs as Shit by.... etc etc etc - that's a very good argument.
Score = 0
Mainstream Artist = Unhip = Negative Album Review or Preview in this case
Typical. This, of course, is excluding Kanye West. That about cover it, P4K?
Score = 5
Love them or hate them, since they're going to make music that our parents will also tolerate, I'd rather have then listening to Coldlay then more Dave Matthews or U2 at this point. They're far from the best band, but I'm fine with them being the most listened to band compared to what else is out there.
Score = 6
First off this album is terrible... As were all the other Coldplay albums... It is obvious that everyone who has posted about loving this album don't listen to a lot of music at all..... Because the only people who could possibly think this album something good let alone something special are rollingstone readers who only listen to 3 or 4 albums per year. To Joe Radisohead has been no where close to downhill lately??? As for great albums released lately... I'll just give you a few amazing ones from 2008.....
Hercules And Love Affair-Hercules and Love Affair
El Guincho- Alagranza
Beach House- Devotion
Cut Copy- In ghost Colours
No Age- Nouns
Bonnie Prince Billy- Lie Down In The Light
And if your really looking for great records you should look into Person Pitch... Noah Lennox made one of the best ever last year!!!
I'm sure all of you Coldplay fanboys have never heard of any of those records, so go listen to them, and in a few months you'll hate Coldplay as much as the rest of us... And you'll be embarrassed that you ever thought they were any good...
So Enjoy!
And you're welcome!!
Score = -26
oh dear...
Score = 6
You forgot to provide the link to p4k's "best new music", since that's clearly where you rip your taste off from. Go die somewhere.
Score = 3
Funny. You'd have to read Pitchfork to know that, wouldn't you? Don't be a hypocrite.
Score = -2
we're indie, we can't like coldplay! but we'll fuck a bunch of bands that rip them off up the ass as much as they want!
i don't listen to fucking coldplay or fucking u2, but this review was absolute shit. attn writer: how did this site, or any other site, give you a job?
Score = -6
Hercules And Love Affair-Hercules and Love Affair
El Guincho- Alagranza
Beach House- Devotion
Cut Copy- In ghost Colours
No Age- Nouns
Bonnie Prince Billy- Lie Down In The Light
AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAAHAHAHAHAHAH
Score = 9
YOU LOST ME AT YOUR FACE
Score = 2
album of the year so far along with In Rainbows and R.E.M.'s Accelerate.
in some parts i feel it is a little overproduced like in Lost! (i prefer the stripped down piano version of Lost on Last.fm.)
and you can definitely hear some rips from other bands- for example you can totally hear the Arcade Fire's 'Windowsill' near the end of Death and All His Friends.
however this album sounds different than all three of their previous albums, and that's pretty sweet. it is refreshing. it sure kicks X&Y's ass.
and how can people hate Coldplay when there are far worse bands such as Nickelback, Fall Out Boy and Panic at the Disco. C'mon now. At least Coldplay makes MUSIC and not barf.
Score = 0
Asserting that Speed Of Sound" is "Clocks"/"Fix You" is "The Scientist" displays a fundamental disrespect for and lack of appreciation for the art of songwriting, in particular crafting beautiful, instantly likable melodies. Furthermore, dismissing this ability as some kind of formulaic recipe for guaranteed mainstream success is not only ridiculous, it is actually an unintended compliment - writing massive, soaring pop songs just isn't that easy.
Though most predicted that Eno's influence would be negligible, his production on this record is simply stunning, and an instrument in itself. As touched on by some above, the textures and shimmering gloss on these songs is gorgeous, and it definitely seems as if Eno provided significant guidance in terms of arrangements and instrumentation.
Martin's lyrics are characteristically weak, but that was never the attraction here. True music lovers should be able to recognize and appreciate Viva La Vida as an intriguing listen and a significant step forward for an unfairly chastised band.
Score = 9
the fact of the matter is - as much as you want to deny it - chris martin is a more talented songwriter than half the shit you fucking faux-elitests talk about on here. i love how you chastise his lyrics, which aren't unordinarily poetic, but at least they're heartfelt and honest, and then jizz yourself over shit like animal collective - you dudes have no right to talk about lyrics. whatsoever.
just listen to the acoustic version of lovers in japan - not any pop musician can write a piano melody like that. stop trying to keep your worthless indie cred and realize that coldplay write good songs. hercules and love affair don't.
Score = 13
This record is another exercise in smoke and mirrors. Chris Martin is a master at presentation. He is the king of the construct. He would make an incredible advertising exec. It's all there. Striking artwork. Eno in the credits. Lofty song titles (that have very little baring on the song they are attatched to). Arresting backing track. Topline melodies that stick in your head after afew listens. Matching themed outfits :) The thing that makes a song a song, however, is missing. Great lyrics. By great lyrics I mean something that is about something. Whether your "Wow yeah wait a minute Mr Postman..." or, in an earlier Coldplay track asking someone to " Look at the stars, look how they shine for you..." A great lyric has just got to be simple and put a message across. This is what disappoints every time. You get past all the glitter and wrapping paper and there is no actual song beating at the heart of any of these recent compositions. But he makes the wrapping paper and glitter so distracting, that most folk don't even notice the gaping hole at the core. They're all quite happy to sit and play with the tinsel which is cool. It's entertainment afterall. All of these songs come from backing tracks jammed to breaking point. The lyrics are the last thing to come and are hammered sloppily to the music. The best songs Coldplay have ever released were proper songs written on a piano or a guitar, lyrics coming at the same time as melody etc... I'm amazed so many folk don't see this.
He IS a genius actually, when you consider that he has created so much out of this device. It pretty amazing. I would suggest though, as part of the to do list on the next album... Hire lyricist. There is no shame in getting some help where it is so desperately needed.
Score = -3
Lyrics alone are not what make a song.
Score = 3
This isn't really that bad I guess. Slept through some of it. I doubt I would play it again. OK horrible.
Score = 1
'displays a fundamental disrespect for and lack of appreciation for the art of songwriting'
orly? because to me it displays a respect for having ears and hearing a band skill for having two ideas and creating carbon copies of them. not note for note, but if you can't hear the replication of a template between, say, 'speed of sound' and 'clocks' then please realize your ears stopped working in 2003 (hint: it is in the piano. also that's when they lost me as a band. this album is a step in the right direction.)
Score = 3
Dear Cale,
You are a child. Some day you will grow up and realize that it's okay to like music if it is interesting and sounds good (or even if it is on a major label). That's all you need.
Some of those albums you listed are great (especially El Guincho), but to make one of the most sophomoric posts on this discussion by suggesting that if someone likes Coldplay, they only listen to 3 or 4 albums a year is completely pretentious and childish. Who are you to decide the taste of the world? Besides, shouldn't you be glad that people don't like the bands you like? Isn't that what guys like you get off on?
I'm glad there is at least one mainstream rock band willing to try new things and stretch themselves. Hopefully it will interest some people who otherwise wouldn't be exposed to interesting production or instrumentation.
Score = 19
So, we're agreed, then? This album is either totally awesome / just OK / terrible, marking the band's return to form / decline / continuing mediocrity. Also, the band does / does not sound like Radiohead / U2 / Travis, which is great / OK / horrible. Glad we cleared that up.
I've always found "originality" to be odd criteria for judging pop-rock. Besides some technical advances, the basic concept hasn't changed since about '68. Everyone since has been playing in the same sandbox, which is fine by me. Coldplay just happens to make particularly pathetic sand castles.
Score = 17
post of the year.
Score = 0
srsly though, if you are an indie fag then ure in the wrong place
Score = -3
I'M an indie fag. where should i go?
Score = -3
What does this even mean?
Score = 0
Fuck all the haters, this album is stunning.
Score = 0
One thing is for sure, no one sparks more polarized discussion than Coldplay. It's really quite remarkable and something they could certainly claim to be the best at. Where else could you see such blind devotion and ridiculous venom spitting in the same place aside from American politics?
Liked the album and the article (and many of the other great 2008 stuff mentioned above). The band seem like a nice bunch of dudes, so I do feel a bit bad that they get stomped on so much. I always found indifference a good way to deal (not deal?) with the bands I find shitty, but hey, to each their own.
Score = 3
You took the words out of my mouth. It's so easy to start bashing Coldplay to appear "unaffected" in the music industry. But why didn't they just say if they liked it or not? I agree, giving props to the "world's most popular band " might hurt your street cred, but give up all the phony pretense. If you don't like Coldplay, don't buy the album. Half the people who commented probably haven't heard it. They just simply respond to the post above them (U2, Radiohead, Eno, Shitty, Ego) It's all the same stuff. Why I can't stand Radiohead fans. Radiohead is a band that I've grown to appreciate. But I almost feel like, Radiohead is a band like the Emperor's new clothes, everyone else says they're amazing, so you can't say it if you don't like it yourself. As if liking Radiohead gives you some sort of musical taste badge.
If you want real musicians, listen to Fiona Apple, Silversun Pickups, or the Decemberists. Just enjoy music for once without worrying what people think. viva!
Score = 4
I don't care what people say about Coldplay
"Clocks" got me laid
Score = 18
muuuuaaaahahahaaaaaa!!! definitely the best one here!
but james blunt? wtf?
Score = -2
cale's right, "underground music" like why?, crystal castles and health are totally fucking rad and way better than all those "old" bands who suck. i'm amazed no one listens to those bands and i'm happy to show of my knowledge of blogs i read.
Score = -6
I just listened to it again and it's still dreadful. Perhaps I need to snort some snow, white snow*
*Att: Chris Martin, what other colors does snow come in?
Score = 0
Yellow? ;)
I think it's a solid album - much hilarity at the vaguest review (or preview, whatever) I've ever read - clearly Stereogum enjoyed the album but didn't want to be seen giving props to such a huge band in fear of alienating Animal Collective fans.
Score = 7
people actually care about Coldplay? gross. they are like garth brooks but english. so lame. so very fucking lame.
Score = -3
I know, right? You just can't tell if he's joking or not. Hilarious, either way.
Score = 2
..."their aesthetic sucks, their sound sucks, their music sucks, and on top of that they have a douchey vibe."
A douchey vibe? Really? What does that even mean? Come to think of it, I find a lot of the Coldplay-bashing to be of a similarly fourth-grade level argument. Why is it bad? Because it SUCKS.
Also, if someone could actually explain to me how Speed of Sound is a copy of Clocks for once, that would be awesome. Someone said here it's the piano. Huh? Like, the notes? What? You can't be saying a song is a rip-off because it also has a piano-based hook, right? You're not that stupid. Right?
Score = 8
@jarvis:
A band with (gasp!) two songs that sound similar? That applies to pretty much every band in existence, from shitty boy bands to seminal artists with a signature sound. "Smells Like Teen Spirit" is "Rape Me"; "Pyramid Song" is "Sail To The Moon" and on and on.
Your negative characterization of this as "carbon copying" and "replication of a template" is laughably transparent - it's only because Coldplay is the band in question that you feel the need to criticize what is a simple reality in music.
Score = 6
These similiarities in songwriting are no more striking than any other excellent songwriter's. "Someone With Whom To Dance" could be "Nothing Matters When We're Dancing's" evil twin. Or how about "Where Did Our Love Go" and "I Hear A Symphony" If a song is good, and a songwriter finds a way to represent it in a fresh, modified version, let'm rewrite it as much as they like.
Score = 1
Album of the Year.
Score = 1
i highly doubt this is "the" Win Butler, however i almost agree
Score = 0
wow people have waste ALOT of room arguing the impossible.
I think Coldplay is a great band; maybe x&y was a crappy album but hey, their older albums are actually quite good and i love the song Violet Hill (I haven't had the chance to listen to the whole album, so I won't say anything about it)
And I had a great time reading most comments. What I concluded was that: a) people hate indie elitists b) apparently if a band sounds like U2/radiohead = they suck and c) Animal Collective fans dont like stereogum, but still read it for kicks :)
Score = 5
Viva La Vida, in spite of the virtual exclamation points of title and cover art, is pretty good. Album of the year? Doubt it, but the songs are still actually enjoyable. If any of these tunes became summer hits, I wouldn't mind too much.
Score = 2
Oasis !!!!!!!!!!!!
Score = -1
Parachutes>Rush of Blood>Viva La Vida>X & Y
thats about all that needs to be said. I know coldplay can write good songs ("Amsterdam" is one of the best songs ever written), but by and large their recent songs have been much weaker. This album is much better than X&Y, but not nearly as good as their first two. I just hope that they haven't run out of ideas already.
Score = 0
cale is a twat
Score = 4
Sorry guys coldpay is BORING!!!!!!!! Listen to the new fleet foxes album. BLOWS coldplays new disc out of the water. ALBUM OF THE YEAR.
And yes OASIS are just about the only true rock stars left
Score = -8
You'd be lost with out Pitchfork, wouldn't you?
Score = 7
Good effort, but chris martin's melodies don't do it for me.
Score = 4
And to think the album isn't even out yet. That's what blows my mind. This is a pretty awesome discussion of an album that *hasn't been released*. I know times have changed, even in the last 2-3 years, but wow.
Thanks for ruining Beach House for me, Cale.
Score = 2
I like a couple songs. Coldplay is great music to write to, it's like Muzak for the 00's. That said...
STOP TRYING TO BE U2
1. Don't do an Itunes commercial in the style of the U2 ad
2. Don't mimic Bono moves in said ad.
3. Don't remake the New Years Day video and call it Violet Hill
4. Don't come up with "uniforms" for each album like U2.
5. Don't use U2's producer
6. Don't make Bono-like comments about wanting to be the biggest band in the world
7. Don't call songs 42 when there is already a 40
8. Don't steal melodies from Mothers of the Disappeared on that Rebel Yell song
And haters, don't rip on U2 because they're popular. Cause they're great.
Score = -5
U2 are a gimick, and possibly one of the worst, talentless bands ever. It's a mystery how they have such a big fan base, well actually, given the public of today, i guess it isn't.
Score = -1
-U2 have no talent? May I refer you to their run of albums from The Unforgettable Fire through Zooropa?
-The "public" of the mid-1980s made U2 famous, so it makes no sense to talk about the "public' of today.
-@ the first comment, there is nothing wrong with having Brian Eno produce you. Still, thanks for noticing that Coldplay are trying to be U2 and not making the same mistake that everyone else does in comparing them to Radiohead.
Score = 4
I suppose i meant to say, U2 have turned into a gimick. There is no arguing with that, surely.
Score = 0
"Lost" = "Veteran of the Psychic Wars" by Blue Oyster Cult.
Score = 0
oh guggy...
-coldplay isn't trying to be U2. U2 is a big influence on the band because they are one of the favorites of all the band members. chris martin says this in multiple interviews.
-apple designs the itunes commercials, not coldplay so it's not like they specifically made the commercial in shadow of the U2 ad.
-brian eno came to coldplay, not the other way around.
-42 is two more than 40. there's a difference.
i'm not hating on U2 because they are one of my favorite bands but so is coldplay.
they are two entirely different bands who make fantastic music. though you may see similarities it doesn't mean you have to hate on coldplay.
Score = 1
I like Coldplay, U2, and Radiohead. What's the problem?
Score = 7
This album is great. when i pick the kids up from school in my rav-4, i can bop my head until i need to do the shopping. it totally takes me to another place, without any of that nasty distortion or layering those 'arty' bands are so fond of. i never get that stuff. just give me straight up hummable tunes. my little one loves them as well! dancing around the lounge room. Yay for coldplay! the lyrics are also awesome! for once i can connect to something my 'hip' teenage son likes, and i only need my 9th grade education! also great when ironing.
Score = 14
hey could you wash my clothes?
thanks mom
Score = 6
LOL
Score = 2
this would be really funny if the album didn't have any distortion or layering...hmm...
Score = -5
I remember a time when I hated Coldplay. It was when the single for "Speed Of Sound" came out. I also remember really liking that particular song, although I didn't want to admit it. But, I also liked U2. And, for some reason, I had to take sides and I immediately created a disdain for Coldplay. I thought, like many of the commentors here, that they sounded too much like U2 and they were the new "big shots". I don't know why I thought that way.
Later on, while creating a CD for a friend of mine, I actually used "Speed Of Sound", as well as "Low" and "Fix You" in a later CDs. It was interesting, my experience creating these CDs. I made about 10 of them for my friend. And while creating these CDs I learned to stop being so uptight about who I was as a music listener. It allowed me to come upon, without prejudice, bands like Aqualung, The Daysleepers and Royksopp.
I don't know why I would spend my life having prejudices against other bands and other kinds of music. If I didn't like it, it was fine. No harm to anyone. The reason why I enjoy Coldplay is because they have a certain emotional impact that catches me. And I think that if I could have expressed myself through music I would have done it the same way. That's all.
Score = 9
Your friend hates you.
Score = 2
People today use words like "stunning" "amazing" and "great" to describe decent music that they enjoy. Great music is a rarity these days. Most of the music that comes out today indie or on the majors sounds like it's been done before. Great songwriting has become a lost art. I feel that people have had to lower their standards of what is real quality vs something to just listen to. There is however loads of fun, cool & listenable music. Although I personally do not care for Coldplay (ok I hate them !) to call them great, stunning or amazing is just ridiculous!
Score = -1
i hate people who put down entire periods of music simply because they haven't taken the time to FIND great music. do you honestly believe that there was more "great" music in the sixties or seventies (or whenever) merely because popular music was more enjoyable? not everyone relies on the radio to scout out new music. there are a hell of a lot of bands out there.
Score = 1
"i hate people who put down entire periods of music simply because they haven't taken the time to FIND great music."
I go to great legnths to check out loads of new and current music of all kinds including indie, dance, country, funk, blues , world, jazz, etc... I live in NYC and go out at least 2 nights a week to see live music. I have been doing this for over 30 years. I am always looking for a newer artist who will be the next great. Well, i'm still looking! Like I said there are plenty of decent newer cool artists I like and have seen live such as MIA, LCD, !!!, Arcade Fire, Gogol Bordello, Cat Power, The Black Keys, The Rapture, Rilo Kiley, Jose Gonzolez, Devotchka, Burial, Ladytron, The Raveonettes, Iron & Wine, Battles, Justice, The Kills, The White Stripes, Liars, Santagold, Amy Winehouse.. I could go on and on. They are all good. Just not great.
Great music tends to live on for years and years, not just what sounds good today. I just don't hear much new original music today that people will want to hear years from now. But I still keep looking! And yes, there was more great music in the 60's, 70's, 80's & 90's, especially the popular music. You didn't have to go and search for great music like today. The top 40 today is a joke.
Score = 0
Can someone pass the popcorn?
Score = 8
I like the new stuff I've heard so far, but it really doesn't stand out to me as "album of the year" type stuff. I'll probably buy the CD and listen to it a couple of times and enjoy it, and maybe return to a few of the more standout tracks. As has been the case for every Coldplay album until now (including X&Y).
In other words, they're a decent band. Which is why I don't understand why most of the almost-100 posts above seem to be divided into supreme adoration and utter contempt. Having a strong opinion about Coldplay, in my opinion, is like having a strong opinion about vanilla ice cream. I mean, duh, it's kinda bland, but there are flavors you're gonna like more, and there are flavors you're gonna like less.
Score = 1
Sometimes human beings get inspired. They are human beings. Da Vinci had inspirations.
I'm sure if Chris Martin never started blathering on pilfering Kate Bush and Travis and this and that, there wouldn't be all this nonsense on who's better and who's being who!
Score = 1
Hey -- anyone know if Brian Eno is related to Jim Eno? Also all you Stereogum / Coldplay haters -- it's a bit ironic you're managing to find time to spew about Coldplay ... on Stereogum... i'm just sayin'....
Score = 4
*Yawn* I just so happen to be listening to Wire's "154" at the moment. Now that's a great album that everyone here should check out in lieu of this treacle sludge.
Score = -5
So...the first time I heard Coldplay's single "Viva La Vida" I IMMEDIATELY started singing different lyrics when it got to the chorus. I was like, "Ryan, this song is ripping off SOMEthing I just know it!"
I kept thinking and thinking and FINALLY I recalled the whole song...it's TOTALLY Petula Clark's "My Love" No seriously!
Go here and listen to the Coldplay chorus (starts around 0:16)...go on...do it!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O3mYc1m3lsM
And then go here and listen to Petula:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-1_d6bbM1I
Yeah Coldplay's version slower and slightly altered, but c'mon...you can hear that melody!
I thought it was bad back when A Rush Of Blood came out and heard "Politik"...yes I love that song...but could it really have borrowed ANY more from Blur's "Sing"???
I understand INFLUENCES happen...but they are doing quite a bit more.
Score = -2
Wow. No matter how people feel about Coldplay, the debate gets PASSIONATE. I think the new album is OK. Way better than X&Y. Well, that's a hard call though. I couldn't get past the first 2 minutes of X&Y, personally. I made it to the title track on this one. Still, sounds good. Sounds like the album U2 wishes they still knew how to make.
Score = 3
Basically lets some up this entire arguement:
99% of people listen to the music that they do because it's "cool". It's all image, whether you guys want to admit it or not. It's ok -- EVERYONE is guilty to a certain extent, some more so than others. But it's inevitable and natural -- and everyone wants to be accepted and look hot. Hip hop is a perfect example of that and why it's gotten so oddly popular these days. But, saying you don't like a band because they sound "douchey" or "only because 14 year old girls listen to them" is absolutely the most tool bag comment I've ever heard. Learn to listen to music for the sake of appreciating it's beauty rather than spending all your fucking time worrying about what people will think of you for it.
And to all these faux-elitist (i love the person who wrote that earlier) indie fucks: half of the horrible shit you eat up with a silver spoon off of pitchfork is stuff no one will remember in 5 years. Not because you're so smart that you're in the minority of realizing it's great music -- but that it's absolute trite garbage that only easily-led sheep like yourself would be convinced to listen to because a blog told you to do so. That's the funniest thing about this paradox! Indie people criticize the people who listen to mainstream because they're "following the crowd" when in fact they're the bigger poseurs for actually being convinced into thinking that some fag with a weird haircut who learned how to play A to C to Bm on his Gibson last year while singing a completely unmemorable vocal line is a god.
Score = 6
Why can't people separate politics, personality, commercial agenda and other inconsequential meaningless factors from the music that a band puts out? If i don't like John Lennon becuase he was a dope smoking weirdo, does that make him less of a musician? Because Van Morrison is a drunken baffoon, does that not make Astral Weeks the best album ever written?
Stick to listening to the music, and by listen, that means closing your eyes and not looking at what bothers you about the band. You either like the music, or you don't. The people that hate on bands are probably not real music lovers. I feel no need to spew venom because someone's three chord song sounded like another bands' three chord song. If your opinion is that the music sucks, becuase you don't like the sounds, fine. But, like it or don't like it for the right reasons.
Grow up, and find your own musical opinion.
Something based on listening, not reading.
Score = 7
What is it about Coldplay that makes them the most polarizing band in the world? You people either strongly love or hate them. I find this interesting
Score = 2
It's the rampant elitism (read: posturing) present in indie/blog circles that creates this dynamic. Fueled by insecurity and mean spirit, these types cannot resist an easy target like Chris Martin and company. A massive target at that.
Why simply pass on a Coldplay post when you can anonymously spew some venom and get some kind of twisted pleasure out of it? People like this must truly suffer from sort of deep inner dissatisfaction.
The others bristle (rightfully so) when the "faux-elitists" rain on their good-natured parade, and respond passionately. They're not necessarily massive Coldplay fans or apologists, it's just that they want to combat the negativity that permeates comments sections like this. And I commend them for it.
My favorite was the kid who said he was 9 when "Yellow" came out, putting him at about 16 of 17 now. Apart from making me feel really old, this explains a lot and speaks to the maturity level of the haters. When I was 17, I was railing against bands "selling out" and forcing my friends to write personal essays to determine who was worthy of my extra Smashing Pumpkins ticket (really). Maturity's a bitch, or something like that.
Score = 2
TO Jung.......Actually I live and seattle and have been seeing the fleet foxes live since 2006. Nice assumption moron.......COLDPLAY IS STILL BORING! maybe you guys can get a neighborhood listening party together, you can invite all the soccer moms.....
Score = -3
TO Jung.......Actually I live and seattle and have been seeing the fleet foxes live since 2006 along with the cave singer, arthur and yu, sera cahoone, and grand archives. Nice assumption moron.......COLDPLAY IS STILL BORING! maybe you guys can get a neighborhood listening party together, you can invite all the soccer moms.......
Score = -4
Chris Martin definitely knows what he is doing, that's for sure.
And while I don't mean to defend Pitchfork completely here, while there is a tinge of elitist faux-indie douchebaggery that is involved with "hip music-blogs" and the like, I'd say about half of their Best New Music picks are not only listenable to the average audiophile, but they shed light on a brilliant album found off the beaten path--see: Fleet Foxes' deubt LP--if you think this is weird or talentless, you're off your blocker, there's more David Crosby, Fairport Convention and Fleetwood Mac circa 1970 (back when they were a real blues band) and a touch of Grizzly Bear (undeniably one of the best releases of last year). While it's okay to read sites like Pitchfork or even Stereogum, I think we all know to take their opinions with a grain of salt.
That being said, after the first listen the Coldplay album sounds okay, definitely more inventive than X&Y, though (and this may be blasphemy) I am not convinced by Brian Eno's production. Too syrupy for my tastes. And while we can agree that they aren't making the edgiest music out there (though there's definitely some Edge in there), it's still bringing a moderately inventive taste to the mainstream that otherwise wouldn't be there. I'd much rather a Coldplay leading the way through the rock mainstream than a Good Charlotte or a Simple Plan or a Fall Out Boy.
Score = 3
NIce "anonymous," way to drop a bigotous remark (classy) into your ignorant rambling about faux-indie elitists (as opposed to real indie elitists???) and your love for a boring band with an egomaniac for a lead singer........maybe if the band showed a little humility they would be easier to stomach.......
And as for your "liking music cause it's cool" argument. Wow that's just stupid or maybe you just want to believe that is the case to somehow counter act the way coldplay music makes you feel lie a square. I understand the draw of Coldplay, they have easily accessible melodies for the radio friendly crowd. I liked Coldplay's first album but that glossy emotion pop isn't my thing anymore....I tend to enjoy music with a little more originality now. Which I think a lot of these commenters/haters are trying to convey. There is an old saying I think would do you well to remember.... assumption is the mother of all f*ck ups.
And as for your "half of the horrible shit you eat up with a silver spoon off of pitchfork is stuff no one will remember in 5 years" comment, where do you think some of the biggest bands in america got there starts? Yup that's right the indie underground i.e. Modest Mouse, Death Cab, LCD Soundsystem etc.......Your ignorance is amazing.....
Oh and I almost shit myself when i read, "easily-led sheep" coming from a Coldplay fan. I bet you have one of those make trade equal stickers on you car.....
Score = -5
"and your love for a boring band with an egomaniac for a lead singer........maybe if the band showed a little humility they would be easier to stomach......."
This is absolutely ridiculous. Coldplay is one of the most humble/least pretentious/least arrogant bands out there. Show me an instance in which Chris Martin acted like an arrogant egomaniac.
"I tend to enjoy music with a little more originality now."
I find it insane how many people assume that if you like Coldplay, it is because you are a fairly ignorant/casual music listener. I listen to and enjoy Battles, Hot Chip, MGMT, etcetera, etcetera. However, I recognize that Coldplay is simultaneously better at writing chords/melodies, and is as innovative as 99 percent of these bands.
Score = 2
First off Johnny... I said, "faux elitist" as opposed to "faux-indie elitist" ...yes, "faux elitist" can be used as a real term. Basically it's someone who comes off pretending to know way more than anyone else on a topic. In this case, you're a good example.
First off, I never even mentioned in my entire comment that I even LIKED Coldplay. I was just criticizing the pretentious indie dumbasses who make fun of them ... as if the music they listen to themselves is some how more "worthy" of enjoyment to one's ears...
This is why I know you're a poseur:
You consider yourself too cool to listen to "emotional glossy pop" that you consider Coldplay's music as.... And that Coldplay somehow lacks "originality". Yet I guarantee you that the majority of the lackluster crap you probably listened to is filled with extremely unoriginal chord progressions, forgettable vocal lines, and horrible arrangements created by "musicians" who spend more time looking in the mirror learning how to look indifferently than actually learning music theory.
A note to all indie prentious assholes:
LEARN MUSIC THEORY. Then we can actually debate. I'm tired of arguing with all you stupid ignorant bastards who don't know a single fucking thing about your arguements. You like to describe bands like Coldplay as being "unoriginal" yet I guarantee you the majority of their chord progressions are more complex and appealing than 90% of the Clap Your Hands Say Yeah shit you jerk yourself off to before bed each night.
ANOTHER NOTE TO TOOLBAGS: Crappy indie production that makes a tune sound unlistenable does not make it "avant garde" in a good way -- it just makes it a steaming pile a shit. And only a small collection of faux-elitists like yourself could appreciate it because you secretly hate yourselves so much that the only way you feel gratification is by enjoying music that everyone else cringes at while listening to.
Oh and lastly Johnny, since you said that Pitchfork discovered "good" bands like Modest Mouse and Death Cab ... may I ask you, do you still listen to them? Or did they get too "uncool" for your sweet, Rico Suave ass to listen to? It's ok if you don't like them anymore -- let me tell you a little secret -- they've always sucked.
Someone told me a funny yet true opinion once -- wanna know why indie fucks think their favorite indie band's first major label release sounds so bad? Because they don't have that low-fi, shitty ass budget anymore to mask how horrible of songwriters they are anymore. People get to truly hear their shitty skills in hi-def. AHAHAHA truer words have never been spoken.
Score = 5
Anonymous, wow first you proved your a bigot now a potty mouth.......you exude class.
Oh and like I said assumption is the mother of all f*ck-ups......I predominately listen to HIP HOP (wow you look dumb). And please bring up relevent points. NO ONE MENTIONED PRODUCTION OR CHORD PROGRESSIONS. I also don't consider myself too cool for Coldplay, it's just BORING......nothing I haven't heard before.
And as for your "LEARN MUSIC THEORY" statement........I play the piano and guitar (NOT professionally, just a hobby)......So out goes that argument.
And I live in Seattle and grew up going to Modest Mouse, Death Cab, Pedro the Lion, 764-hero shows in the mid/late 90s. Way before pitchfork And believe it our not I actually learn about new bands from word of mouth and attending shows (interpersonal interaction is much more enjoyable then reading a webpage). However I do find it a tad hypocritical how numerous peeps defending Coldplay have evoked the pitchfork argument, but I bet my left nut the majority read it daily......
And anonymous, why so much anger for these so called "faux elitist" (I know what "faux" means by the way).....did your wife/girlfriend leave you for one? Maybe you can listen to some of Coldplay's original chord progressions, memorable vocal lines and amazing arrangements and find a little peace of mind.....
Score = 0
"dude...like...seriously. dude. parachutes. dude man bra...it was their best album"
I'd rather watch a queen latifa movie than listen to indie meatheads who hate on good music.
Score = 0
the dudes over at absolutepunk seem to be loving this album. probably because it's a better site.
Score = -1
Are dudes getting mad at elitists getting just as annoying as actual elitists these days?
Why is everyone so concerned with how other people view this stuff? If you're into Coldplay, go to a Coldplay message board and talk to your pals about how much you love it. If you don't like the album, head over to hipinion or something.
Whatever it takes to get back to arguing about important issues like what 60 year old men feel are the best guitar rock songs ever
Score = -1
This was too hard to pass up. I think I can generally be categorized as a but of a music snob, but I've always been a fan of Coldplay. They probably don't fit in well with the others in my top 5, but I can get a bit tired of listening to bands play in back alleys or dumpsters and scouring Hype m for the latest and greatest. I think its a bit exciting to see a band in an ipod add or sell out MSG. and I must say for all the people trashing the band and calling for more originality; don't you find it funny that most of your posts lack just that, originality. The soccer mom comments? the "brahs".
Score = 0
i wish the song YES, was only the last 3 minutes, its amazing.
Score = 0
You guys are entertaining. I sincerely hope none of you are as emotionally bent over a CD as you appear to be. The 'anonymous reply to Johnny's comment' was especially scathing and comical.
Score = 0
Viva La Vida > X&Y Parachutes
Score = 0
Scott, I'm sorry but I really don't see how "Fix You" is "The Scientist."
Score = -1
It's a Coldplay record. It sounds like Coldplay. I don't even know that there is merit in reviewing this record. It sounds like their other records, it's marketed the exact same way and it will sell 3.5 million copies worldwide. And in a decade, NO ONE will ever mention this record.
Score = -1
In 20 years they'll probably be just like U2: Releasing mediocre albums. Going on giant world tours. Chris Martin will even be appearing in bad musical motion pictures set to Radiohead's music.
Score = 0
I'm a fan of Coldplay, but not this album. I think it's very forgettable, and not very good. I have nothing against anyone who likes it, it's just not my cup of tea. I prefer the one other song the play, because at least it sounds good.
C-
Score = 0
ha. chris martin should read all these posts.
Score = 0
Good album. Not very catchy, but a nice change. The track "Death and All of His Friends" is awesome. My band tried a concept album about three years ago, and it was a great "restart" point. It'll be fun to see what Coldplay does next.
Score = 0
The album is hit and miss for me, just like X&Y. I give them credit for experimentation though and the concert I saw them perform in August 2002 at the 9:30 Club is still the best I've ever seen.
Score = 0
Hey, chris martin here.
"ha. chris martin should read all these posts."
yo, i don't give a fuck about what critics say. that's the one thing that separates the active musicians from the rest of you closeted artists. i really don't give a flying fuck about what direction i should head or where to stay away from. you fuckers are always making up rules or honoring subjective shit like that, yo. quit the internet and do what you love. you're wasting your fucking time with gossip.
Score = 1
to bad you're not the real jonny greenwood
Score = 0
hey chris martin
YO
Score = 0
I thought no one cared about Coldplay anymore?
Score = 1
I love how every other comment contains some variation on "nobody cares about Coldplay", yet there's 146 comments about this post. Clearly nobody cares about Coldplay.
And, I like the record.
Score = 4
I've been in love with Coldplay since I was like eleven. I'm seventeen now. And I listen to a lot of Eno and he has done wonders for this album. X&Y, in hindsight, was a disappointment.
But just like with Bedlam in Goliath, and with In Rainbows, (and hopefully A Good Ass Job) it's only the power of a truly startling step forward that lets you know what you've been missing when you were compromising with Amputechture and Hail to the Thief.
So yeah. If Radiohead killed the record label industry, this is Coldplay is hitting that fucker with the paddles. The rock band is back, and I love them.
Score = 4
If they were still playing the Local 506 or Warsaw, and there were only 1,000 copies of Viva made, there would be no contest that this is such a sweet record. Although, they didn't help themselves out in the "indie elite" circles by not calling themselves The Coldplays.
The music industry is treading water at this point, and you need musicians like Kanye and Martin that are albeit over the top - but talented nonetheless - to excite the masses again. The local record stores are closing, and by blindly bashing the successful, you're shooting yourself in the foot.
And hey, if you can conjure some reminiscence of Radiohead in your songwriting, more power to you. I'd take it as a compliment.
Score = 5
Apologies for the double post, didn't mean to do that.
Score = 0
I find it really funny to get all these haters talking about the new Coldplay album. If you're a music elitist, then why would you bother writing about, much less listening to the new Coldplay album? Let's be honest here - it is what it is - a new Coldplay album. If you like Coldplay, then great - but just the fact that people who do NOT like Coldplay are listening to and even commenting on the band shows the power that they hold.
I devour music on a daily basis, and there are tons of new great records out there for those that are looking. If you like coldplay then don't bother defending this album to the haters - the music can speak for itself. But there are other bands out there that are lesser known that are making brilliant music as well these days. I just find it really difficult to understand how people will completely trash a pop record because other people like it. There is a place in this world for Coldplay obviously, and they will continue to make records that people love, and this record is no different. I personally was pleasantly surprised at the new album and found it refreshing - but I wasn't fooling myself going into it - it's a Coldplay album. It's not going to change my world, but it's good seeing a mainstream band evolve.
Music was made for everybody, but not everybody has to like the music.
Score = 6
Eno is fabulous..
Score = 2
Coldplay?
Never heard of them.
Score = 1
oh dear...these comments are all strong arguments for the forced extinction of the human race. Some are so bad that I found myself wishing that we'd just get on with accidentally unleashing a rampant, incurable killer virus on ourselves or wiping ourselves in an illogical and pointless nuclear war started over a childish slanging match between world leaders.
would be appropriate.
why do people insist on judging each other based on what their opinion is on the album, or what people use to validate their stance...incidentally, why do people validate their stance with their own supposedly superior views on music? or by thoughtlessly ripping other people's views and attempting to shit on the views of others by suggesting things about these people based on completely misinformed stereotypes?
anyway. In my humble opinion, Chris Martin has let his ego get the better of him. Let's face it, Coldplay aren't much more than a slightly above average pop/rock band, their music is always going to be aimed straight at the mainstream, sloganeering 'big and important' lyrics, 'epic' melodies and keening, manipulative vocals...to be fair, it only became clear that this was what the band was with the release of X&Y, 'A Rush of Blood...' and 'Parachutes' at least had a degree of sincerity about them. Since then, they seem to have attempted to do two complete opposites, making formulaic and obvious music for the masses whilst somehow trying to make inventive and original music. And this latest album is yet more proof that they're failing badly.
the lyrics are the worst part, methinks, they remind me at my own initial forays into songwriting, aged 15, naive and kind of laughable...Martin seems to be regressing...although I guess he was never a master lyricist, I think the diminishing quality of the music just reveals this.
...I just had a read through some of the comments I missed, 1) a lot of people responding to people knocking the album with the retorts 'haters', 'elitists', etc...why not try and defend the album without lazy generalizations? they don't give your argument any weight or lend your views on things any credibility, and most often just lead to people on the other side resorting to the same tactics...
the music industry argument...the music industry is fine, it's just a power-shift and a change of the way things work. the industry doesn't need Coldplay to 'save' it, for fuck sake! look elsewhere, all the great music being released all the time on independent labels, by bands without labels, or whatever, there's been so much brilliant music released since the dawn of the millenium, more and more leased each year, only people that rely on what they're force fed by controlling media forces could have such an opinion that things are looking grim. maybe for the major labels, but that can only be a good thing for music.
...hmm...I should stop reading these comments, there's enough I want to respond to already...gah...I just want to pick up on the comments of one guy about bands with lesser budgets or whatever he was on about...the production on this album is kind of horrible, shiny and overdone, and it's all there to gloss over Coldplay's lack of really inventive songwriting and how they're kind of lacking in the talent department. not saying they're not talented at all, of course they have a modicum of ability, it's just that they're no Battles, for example, they're never going to blow us away with incredible instrumental virtuosity, are they. Battles, by the way, a good example of a band that supposed 'indie-elitists' tend to like that musically and production-wise, blow Coldplay out of the water. If you listen to the likes of Battles, Grizzly Bear, Animal Collective, TV on the Radio, etc (yes, all rated highly by Pitchfork, but Pitchfork gets a harsh rep from a lot of people when they do a decent job of plugging quality underground music - of course, I don't mean actual shite like Times New Viking or the horribly average No Age, if that was all they reviewed then I'd be inclined to agree), you should know truly brilliant and inventive songwriting when you hear it, and you should be know that Coldplay aren't exactly on the cutting edge of creativity.
I'll finish by saying that I'd definitely take them and their latest effort over the vast majority of other mainstream crap that gets forced down our throats all the time, from your Fall Out Boys to your latest Timbaland-produced mindless club 'banger' (he used to be so good...), to whatever reality tv slings our way. They really aren't the dirty watermark of mainstream shite, they're just a slightly above average indie pop/rock band that made it big and lost their way a little. Y'know, whilst selling a shitload of records.
I apologise if you find my argument overlong, poorly sequenced, pretentious at all, I assure you I'm not some uppity elitist moron or anything like that. just thought I'd share my opinions on a few things!
Score = -3
I come to Stereogum to leave snarky comments, not to read a novel. Spare us all, windbag.
Score = 0
If you like coldplay you'll really like this mix honest to god:
http://eng.musicshake.com/zb/contest_view.php?uid=12888&startPage=1&boardid=zb_adver&category=%C0%FC%C3%BC
Score = 0
pointless snobbery.
Score = 5
Jesus, Coldplay have their collective heads soooo far up U2's collective asses.
Score = -4
Not a big fan of this review to be honest. You seem to be copying all the other 'trying to be cool by not liking Coldplay' crowd. Your thoughts are not new, and you only have them because Coldplay sell millions of records. If Coldplay sold 500,000 or less per album, you would not be so harsh. It is indeed inverted snobbery, and pretty bourgeois at that. If the common folk (the middle-aged blue-collar worker, the family house-wife, the average student, most teenage girls etc.) like it, then it must be bad, right? Oh-so-refined music critics such as yourselves wouldn't dare associate yourselves which such common rubbish.
Here's a novel thought - there are enough bands trying to be cool, deep and all rock and roll (some do it well). Coldplay are middle-class, English university graduates - it would be kind of fake if they tried to be anything else. They have and continue to entertain millions of people, and make their people's days a little better - fair play to them, and may it continue.
Score = 6
Do you know how I know Stereogum's gay?
They listen to Coldplay.
Score = -5
I wonder if the next U2 album will sound like Coldplay....... hmmmm, more to the point who gives a shit, I love them both.
Score = 2
i cant believe people would go out of their way to trash a band like this. what is even the point? you only have to look through these comments to see how varied everybody's taste is and what they believe is good music - everything from the silversun pickups to cut copy. not everyone is going to agree because people have different tastes and coldplay just so happens to make music that a lot of people appreciate and like to listen to. if you dont like it, must you spend your time trying to convince people of the same? ive been reading through these comments and it hasnt made me like coldplay any less, its just saddened me. everyone talks about music like theyre some super qualified expert trashing this and promulgating that. its ironic, if i said a certain band was rubbish id be told i was an idiot but if i claimed to like them id just be jumping on the bandwagon and when everyone else realises the talent of this band you used to like, you abandon them because its no longer original and so continues the quest for something newer and cooler and apparently more credible. doesnt this vicious cycle ever get tiring? im so frustrated by this i wanted to just leave this page but just like every other egotistical person who thinks theyre right i had to put in my 2 cents. music makes me happy. if i dont like the same music as you, let it go, because coldplay and whatever other bands you hate will keep on making music and all of us complaining and bitching on some random review site are doing nothing but giving people headaches.
Score = 2
Everyone likes stating there opinion whether it be good or bad. We're all trying to convince each other that our argument is right. For some reason people want everyone to share the same ideas. Perhaps it is because it makes things less lonely and more relatable? Anyways, I personally am not attracted to this music. It just doesn't 'move' me in any way. I want to state my opinion. I know other people will love this album. The end result is better for the latter because that leaves them with one more piece of artwork to enjoy.
Score = 0
meow. Lets exist together with different tastes.
There will always be another person who thinks differently. And, we can't do anything about that.
Who cares what other people think. Listen to the music because you love it, because it attracts you. And don't stray away from Bands or songs or genres just because its "mainstream" or because everyone likes that one song. Listen to everything, explore. Explore, and like what you like. No one will kill you for liking it.
:D
Score = 4
coldplay's mediocrity>brian eno's ingenuity
Score = -1
testing...does anyone actually read comments this low on the chain?
i thought it was a solid review, although i don't think the U2 comparison is fare (and i'm aware it wasn't your invention). i'm really enjoying the new disc. i particularly liked what DerekE had to say...bands musical taste and talent evolve just like mine does, i appreciate that. i think this is a solid evolution.
Score = 3
The new album is something new.
Its not completely unlike Coldplay and sounds very little like anyone else you mentioned. I feel that you drastically misrepresented the band and their intentions with this album. That was a ridiculously harsh review and the comments reflect that.
I think that you listen to so much music that you forget to hear it.
I'm a fan of honest music. This album is one of the most genuine that I've heard in a long time.
Score = 5
Some people just like Coldplay. Some people also just like plain yogurt, Honda Civics, USA Today and Miller Lite. That's the kind of world we live in, people.
Score = -5
Some people just don't like Coldplay. Some people also don't like Peppermint Patties, Lexus automobiles, Forbes Magazine and Chardonnay. That's the kind of world we live in, people.
Score = 4
Did someone already mention the parts where they cover Peter Gabriel? I think it's most obvious on "Cemeteries of London" – esp. the beginning and ending. I've really enjoyed some of their music in the past (during the worst of the Bush years, their sound seemed to sum up the moment and make me feel that others shared the sadness as fatigue I felt watching my homeland swirl down the tubes), but i agree that the last album felt like over-reaching; a good little band trying too hard or whatever. The first time I heard this record, I thought I had someone's parody of a Coldplay album. I'm all for quoting from your favorite music sources, but on first listen, it felt like the audio equivalent of clip art. (Is that Grandaddy's "Skateboarding Saved Me Twice"? -- no, it's just the opening of "Lost". Is that a variation on the intro to "I Am the Walrus"? -- No, it's just the opening of "Yes") And "Viva la Vida" sounds like it's from a whole different album, possibly even a different songwriter. I know the future of a giant mega-corporation depends on this album selling well, and it has grown on me on further listening, but I'd rather they stopped the "biggest band in the world" B.S. and waited until they really had something to say before making an album (corporate profits notwithstanding).
Score = -2
I agree 100%.
Score = 0
This album just doesn't do anything for me.
Score = 0
Lovin all of the comments...COLDPALY RULES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Score = -1
Viva la Vida lives up to the hype. It's a great album and I commend Chris and the boys for trying out new sonic textures and arrangements. The weakest part are the lyrics. If they had been less vague/cliché Viva la Vida WOULD be Coldplay's Joshua Tree. This album is a huge growth spurt for the band as songwriters and performers. Can't wait to see what they do with the material in concert!
Score = 1
Man some of the albums that people have listing as superior to coldplay do nothing for me at all - but hey thats just my opinion - and unlike half the people who have commented here (strike that 90%?) i dont think that my opinion is superior to everybody else that ever lived. so i wont waste my time naming bands and thrusting my various music tastes down your throat.
yeah i listen to a lot of music but i dont have a big enough ego to think for a minute that there arent people out there with vastly superior musical knowledge to my own - and if there are people out who genuinely devire enjoyment from Hilary Duff or Hannah Montanna who i am to judge?
and back to the actual point if anyone cares, yes i do like coldplay and their new album. sure their not a cutting edge underground indie band that people here seem to like to name drop to make themselve feel superior - but i enjoy their music, quite a lot actually - and i am so sick of the constant U2 comparisions yeah we heard you, you can stop repeating it- although i appreciate their contribution to music or whatever (U2) never enjoyed them in quite the same way as coldplay who have some songs that make me stop what doing and listen (eariler stuff mainly) - sure go ahead and laugh i dont care -i guess their sound is (or has been) to commercial for some people to ever enjoy it fully or give it a chance.
also i dont really think everyone who is commenting on chris martins supposedly huge ego are being fair - i really dont think he has a big ego at all (beside what is to be exepted as a celebrity or part of a successfull band) - if you had actually ever listened him being interviewed you'd see that he is constantly apologising and doubting himself not that it has much to do with the quality of the music
anyway thats my two cents, i dont expect anyone to agree or even read this but felt i needed to put it out there to vent.
Score = 2
Viva la Vida, the song, sounds like something off a Disney soundtrack, with all those cymbal crashes and surging strings. And that last song sounded like old Journey. I should know - Oldskool was there back in da day.
Eno - retire him already. The 80's are over - heard it all before. This crap is nothing new, nothing anyone wants to hear today.
Score = 0
wats all the fuss about?read some heavy reviews,like nme in the early 80s,get a grip,lol,its not too bad but ive heard better.no hidden meanin in lyrics people,take it for wat it is,not too shabby a pop album
Score = 0
what?
Score = 0