Gracias A La Vida - Joan Baez

Advantages: It's Coldplay!
Disadvantages: /

...Having been a fan of Coldplay since their first album "Parachutes" in 1999, I always await each new album with great anticipation, with this anticipation rising after each is released due to the increasing quality of every one. So I got myself into the spirit by listening to X&Y a solid four times and downloaded "Viva La Vida" as soon as I could. I'd already heard a few tracks from various radioplay and also seeing them on different TV shows here and there and was certainly happy with what I heard. Although in all honesty I could have been listening to to someones nails scratching a blackboard and still be happy. After all, its Coldplay right? Anyhow, I pressed streamed it to my 360 and started listening whilst I played a bit of FIFA. The first song, Life in Technicolor is an instrumental, and, although is not what I'd class... Read review

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Advantages: great new material, showcasing great songwriting and an enjoyable sound
Disadvantages: needs a good few listens to find the best parts of each song (possible advantage)

...This album represents a great succession for Coldplay into developing their already unique sound and style. Listeners may find similarities in style from the later tracks on X&Y during the first listen. However further listening reveals an altogether deeper experience with the band experimenting with tempo changes mid song which is accomplished successfully in songs such as "42". In addition the album includes more upbeat, faster tracks unlike previous albums. Songs such as "Vida la Vida" and "lovers in Japan" really stand out in this respect. When the tracks do slow down Martins skills as a writer really bloom with the melancholy lyrics of "strawberry swing" and the enchanting sound of "Death and all his friends", providing a great ending to a great album. Previous fans of Coldplay wont be disappointed by this album and will find... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: every song
Disadvantages: takes a few listens

...After hearing the lead single from 'La Vida... Es Un Ratico', 'Me Enamora' I was glad to see Juanes back, but was distinctly unimpressed. I wanted to hear something new from one of my favourite artists but instead I had a typical (if not also catchy and well written) love song with guitar riffs and solos very similar to those heard on 'La Camisa Negra' and (albeit one of my favourite Juanes songs), A Dios Le Pido. But I semi-reluctantly bought this album and did not regret it, certainly after a few listens. There is not a single dud or filler on the album, possibly a first for a Juanes album and in that respect surpassing my favourite Juanes album, the multi-award winning Un Día Normal. From beautiful ballads such as the title track and the collaboration with Argentina's Andrés Calamaro (another great artist), Minas Pierdas, to more... Read review

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