Five years ago, I watched a gangly man walking on a beach singing a tune that reminded me of early 90's shoe-gazing. Fortunately, I heard the song again, and again, and soon, I bought "Parachutes", Coldplay's debut album. As an intimate success of acoustics and piano, I loved it then and it still stands up as one of the best records of the last 20 years in my opinion.
Unfortunately, the "A Rush of Blood to the Head" was a disappointing follow up that, while having some very good songs, fell under a forced political undertone and some dopey sounding guitars ("In My Place" is the worst Coldplay song ever).
So, after years in the studio and supposed "band almost breaking up turmoil", Coldplay has returned with "X+Y", a phenomenal, guitar driven record that hints at Pink Floyd and is more reminiscent of the playful sexuality exhibited in "Parachutes". The album is cohesive and well balanced, featuring numerous surprises and Chris Martin's most impressive vocal performance. His talent has never been in his range or pure tones, but at the restraint and ability to perfectly complement the sound of his band. He doesn't intrude and like the seminal shoe-gazer band, My Bloody Valentine, his voice becomes another part of the instrumental puzzle.
Here is a song by song breakdown:
"Square One" - A perfect opener. Interesting drums, ambient sounds and absolutely gorgeous breaks between choruses, bridges, verses and such. Maybe the best song they've ever written.
"What if" - A beautiful opening reminding of "Hey Jude" and then bursts into classic falsetto Coldplay that sounds absolutely awesome. Chris Martin's rising tone complements the outstanding guitar. Very cinematic.
"White Shadows" - A little forgettable only because it doesn't sound as fresh. Still the guitar work is fantastic again and the drive of the song is very strong. Lyrically its adequate and the chorus is quite infectious. A little poppy, a little been there, done that, but it ends in delicate perfection.
"Fix You" – Pink-Floydian beginning with a minimalist organ that wraps beautifully around Martin's voice. The burst well into the song is powerful and maybe the highlight of the album. The drums hit hard and it delivers and emotional burst. Awesome song, especially played live.
"Talk" - Interesting build, complements the preceding song well. I like the lyrics and the guitar work. Feels very personal and the chorus has a U2 vibe that works well.
"X+Y" - The beginning is a basic melody but the song builds well into something that really reminds me of peak Radiohead stuff. This song, if anything, is the closest bridge between those two bands' sounds.
"Speed of Sound" - Great lead single. Infectious, pumping guitars, piano, and a great chorus. This was written directly after "Clocks" and it shows because it is very similar to that tune in pacing and structure. I like this song more and more each time I hear it.
"A Message" - again, we get a serious Radiohead vibe. This song sounds "Street Spirit" with an acoustic backing that unfolds into more typical drum fare. It progresses really well, and Martin's voice weaves perfectly around the music.
"Low" - Hardest rocking tune, interesting jumble. It’s the definite hate/love song on the album. It has some dumb lyrics and frustrating moments, but similarly has some of the greatest sections on the album (notably the drum breakdown while Martin says "well I feel loved....") Take it for what it is.
"The Hardest Part" - lots of piano, but this song sounds a little familiar. It seems like some of the melodies carried over into this and that Martin wasn't as precise with his voice here. Still, a good, subtle song that sticks out a bit.
"Swallowed by the Sea" - sounds like a Beatles ballad for the new generation. Nice structure and has a chorus that fits; although it sounds slightly uninspired at times.
"Twisted Logic" - Great closer to the album. Incredible build into a memorable chorus that climaxes perfectly. Every time you think the song hits a peak, it reaches higher, AWESOME.
"Kingdom Come" - No falsetto for Mr. Martin. Yet, this secret track is probably the most raw and least dreamy (meaning realistic) song on the album. It reminds me a bit of that Springsteen song in Jerry Maguire, only it works, and it works great. Intimate is the best word to describe it.
All in all, this is a fantastic album that deserves a listen regardless of your former experience with the band. Great stuff.
