I've been a fan of Coldplay for some time, but only bought Parachutes a year after it was released. I'm not one for buying albums that often, so when I was abroad in New Zealand I took advantage of the low price and bought X&Y shortly after it had been released, an unprecedented move on my part.
My initial impressions were of slight disappointment, as this wasn't really a sound I associated with Coldplay. However, after playing through the entire album once or twice I found the sound to be a lot richer and fuller than their previous songs.
The orchestration of the tracks seem to include a wider range of instruments, especially electric ones. The first sounds you hear on the album are almost etherial, which when mixed with Chris Martin's distinct vocals is simply magical. The different instrumentation and harmonies are simply genius. Only occasionally does an idea get slightly exhaused and I feel at some points the melodies and harmonies could be developed more. Yet again, if it ain't broke don't fix it!
X&Y is definately an album you can listen to over and over. It is also a great one to sing along to! The relaxed atmosphere of the CD makes it ideal to chill out to and perfect bedtime music, soothing you into a relaxed state. I personally found it good for nighttime driving, although it did send my mate to sleep!
The cover inlay is quite interesting, but as always does not include lyrics. You have to figure that one out yourself (not that easy!) There is also the usual stuff about free trade, as this is Chris Martin we're dealing with.
Overall, I have found X&Y to be an amazing album with a brilliant sound to it. I particularly like the increased use of electronics and the sublime harmonies. If you're a fan of Coldplay already then you undoubtedly like this album. If not, there will be a few converts out there. However, I have friends who hate Coldplay and they simply say it's more of the same. I reckon how you see it is how you approach it. But for me this album is a definate must buy and their best album yet.
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hey man sorry for the not amazing rating. its not your fault - i did a beatles review of similar length to this one you've done - but on this site a good review is one that tells you absolutely EVERYTHING about the album.
I don't agree with that but if that's how they're all done then shorter reviews have to be put as not as helpful im afraid. sorry. nick
Vheissu 23.03.2006 18:50
my views on Coldplay...... boring, stale, tired, bland..... need I go on. saying that, you've obviously a fond appreciation for what they do, and even as a non-fan, I can respect that. Alex
psychstudent1 04.03.2006 13:02
Its a fabulous album that I never tire of hearing. Trish x
Coldplay were faced with a difficult choice as they set to work on X&Y. They could ... more
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Advantages: great, lengthy and not a dissapointment to past releases. Disadvantages: if you dont like Coldplays previous songs/albus you wont be a fan of this
chrismoll 05.06.2005 ·
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful
Review of X And Y - Coldplay
Advantages: Accoustic harmonies and easy to listen to songs.Sincere and heartfelt lyrics. A really nice album. Disadvantages: I didnt like it as much as X&Y or A Sudden Rush of Blood to the Head.
SpookyMoon 29.05.2009 ·
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful
Review of Parachutes - Coldplay
Aug 7th, 2005
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