Coldplay is one of those acts that you can trust will always be themselves. Between the distinctive voice of Chris Martin, the undeniably brilliant piano lines, the use of chorus and ‘woahs’ the solid bass and guitar lines – Coldplay has forged a niche so solid that their music is immediately identifiable and catchy – in the least irritating of ways.

Their new album – A Head Full of Dreams is a welcome development in their catalogue of brilliance. Staying true to their style, they have managed to venture into new territory with a seamless ease. Track by track, this is what you can expect.

A Head Full of Dreams

Picture a parade in down a town’s main road with a whole lot of kids and colours. This track achieves a sense of celebration and consistent joy that will have you dancing even after the song is finished. The bass line is super tight and the iconic reverb infused guitar sequence, layered with a whole lot of gang vocals makes for a vibrant welcome to the new chapter of Coldplay’s story.

Birds

Harking back more to the indie punk vibes that could be associated with songs like Trouble, this a song you would listen to while you were getting ready for the day. Or on a slow walk through a busy city. There is a slight hint of the dulcimer that made Life in Technicolor such a successful record, but it maintains that London grunge with a light touch.

Hymn for the Weekend

I have to admit I really love this track. Dubbed a sort of duet with the one and only Queen B (Beyonce), this is a very nice venture into new territory for Coldplay. The angelic counterpoint of the intro with the birdsong in the background sets the tone for an awesome audio representation of the album artwork: colourful, structured, intricate and random. The use of horns definitely hearkens to Beyonce’s stylistic brilliance. The complex structure of the sections also adds a freedom. The cool clap beat with steel pipe polyphony added to Chris Martin’s iconic piano playing and walking bass makes this a new type of brilliant.

Everglow

This heartfelt musical memoir comes just in time to tie down the die-hard fans. It is hard to separate Chris from his relationship troubles when listening to this vulnerable ode to a person he has lost. Simple, raw and rustic – this is where Coldplay’s song writing shines through. No need for huge production, just precise sincerity.

Adventure of a Lifetime

If you haven’t watched the video for this – their first single – do yourself a favour and do it! Similar to A Head Full of Dreams, there is a definite mid-tempo jam that is right in the pocket. The use of EDM effects – such as the closing of an envelope before the refrain and the manipulation of vocals is a fun twist (the background sample is actually the phrase ‘alive again’ played backwards).

Fun (feat. Tove Lo)

A nostalgic take on the subject, this song would be awesome as a backtrack to a night carnival scene or a romantic montage. Tove Lo fills the role well… She never features by herself, which begs the question why Beyonce isn’t listed on Hymn for the Weekend Her presence on the track, however, elevates what would be a rather average track.

Kaleidoscope

This is definitely more of an artwork collage than a song. It belongs as part of an interactive art installation. Definitely evokes some strange feelings with a neo-gospel type of approach.

Army of One

Repetitive sequencing makes this song. The melody and structure feels like a development of different possible options that fit with the repetitive chord structures. Close your eyes on a hot summer evening and face the wind – your experience will be complete. Until 3:25 when something that sounds like whole new songs comes on. With a more Kanye type of producing, this added little track is a stark contrast that throws you off and adds that variety the album seems to reach for.

Amazing Day

With grateful undertones and soaring strings. This one can make every home feel cosy. Definitely the most Christmas friendly song this year.

Colour Spectrum

Another montage like Kaleidoscope with Beyonce vocals coming in and out, you could add this to the art installation in the room next to it.

Up&Up

With very clever lyrics and a masterful balance of instrumentation, once the tight kick comes in you know you’re on a journey. A hopeful finale, this track is a cool representation of Coldplay’s longevity. There is definitely more to come and I cannot wait.

This album definitely saves the band from the doldrum fest that was Ghost Stories. Have a listen! Hope you enjoy it!