Parachutes - Coldplay > Reviews > better than Travis

Author's product rating:   

Originality	Average
Lyrics	Standard
Quality and consistency of tracks	A couple of weak links
How does it compare to the artist's other releases	Not applicable
Value for Money

Advantages:	the singles, past present and future .
Disadvantages:	the slower tracks  -  mediocre I'm afraid

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

Coldplay have undergone quite a lot of stick for being nothing more than a younger Travis. Having heard Parachutes its clear they are a better band, with a better songwriter. They are capable of tackling melancholy issues, in the same way that Travis do, but, unlike their peers, they don't sound dull or dreary.

Opener 'Don't Panic' is beautiful, reminiscent of 'Unforgettable Fire' era U2 - its only downfall is that it's too short. Former single 'Shiver' is the closest thing Coldplay get to urgency, but that's not the raison d'etre of 'Parachutes' - it's a primarily downtempo album, but I feel that that lets them down - especially considering how great 'Shiver' is.