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Coldplay sticks to its familiar sound with “Mylo Xyloto”

One of music’s biggest acts, Coldplay, returns with their fifth album, “Mylo Xyloto.” Over the span of the British   rock group’s career, they have sold 50 million albums worldwide, won seven Grammys and had headlining spots on some of the biggest music festival stages.

With that kind of success, Coldplay has become one of the most beloved bands in music today, with their huge, soaring choruses and catchy melodies.

“Mylo Xyloto” is without a doubt Coldplay’s most optimistic effort musically and lyrically. After a short introduction track, the album kicks right into “Hurts Like Heaven.” This track sets the tone perfectly for the rest of the album with its upbeat and playful drums, catchy vocal melodies, fast-paced keyboards and atmospheric guitars.

On the next song, “Paradise,” Coldplay makes it clear they are moving away from the rock aspect of their sound that was prominent in their early releases, and are instead embracing the pop side of their sound.

Although the track is catchy, it can be repetitive
and overall feels too polished and radio-friendly.

Tracks like “Charlie Brown”, “Major/Minus” and “Don’t Let it Break Your Heart” are highlights. These songs are the prime examples of Coldplay showing off their new loud, youthful side, while still maintaining their signature sound.

Two songs that come later on in the album, “Every Teardrop is a Waterfall” and “Princess of China,” featuring Rihanna, contain the same flaws found earlier in “Paradise.”

One flaw with this record is that although the changes in mood and sound are noticed, Coldplay does not stray too far from their comfort zone on “Mylo Xyloto.” No matter how many new instruments and effects they use, they are still a band that write songs meant for stadiums.

There is no denying that this album is a fun and enjoyable listen, which is what it is meant to be. “Mylo Xyloto” is an album that is best when listened to loudly in a car or
with a good sound system.

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