Coldplay :: Viva la Vida Album and Tour Discussion

[DJBenson]

At the risk of attracting the anti-Coldplay brigade, I'm going to post this anyway...

Coldplay have just announced a host of UK Venues for their "Viva la Vida" tour on the back of the album release which is due out worldwide from the 11th of June. The full dates are;

DECEMBER (UK)
Mon 01 UK, Birmingham NIA - on sale Fri 30 May
Tue 02 UK, Birmingham NIA - on sale Fri 30 May
Fri 05 UK, Glasgow SECC - on sale Fri 30 May
Sat 06 UK Glasgow SECC - on sale Fri 30 May
Sun 07 UK, Sheffield Arena - on sale Fri 30 May
Wed 10 UK, Liverpool Echo Arena - on sale Fri 30 May
Thu 11 UK, Manchester MEN Arena - on sale Fri 30 May
Fri 12 UK, Manchester MEN Arena - on sale Fri 30 May
Sun 14 UK, London O2 Arena - on sale Fri 30 May
Mon 15 UK, London O2 Arena - on sale Fri 30 May
Thu 18 UK, Belfast Odyssey Arena - on sale Fri 30 May

I will be trying for the MEN Arena tickets on 11/12 December. Will be my fourth time seeing them should I be lucky enough to get tickets.

As for the album, eagerly awaiting that having liked the single "Violet Hill". I have heard a couple of tracks from the album, including title track "Viva la Vida" and I do like what I've heard so far.

[Nicky Ray]

I'm not a big Coldplay fan but I've warmed to the single after hearing it a few times. :)

[DJBenson]

The only thing I don't like about Coldplay these days is Chris Martin's inability to give a good interview, over the years he has begun to get more and more obscure in the things he comes out with during interviews.

Classic line during the recent interview with Jo Whiley on Radio 1;

"I want the new album to be one that the kids in the playground won't be embarassed to listen to" or words to that effect :D

People will always be coy about admitting to like Coldplay but I don't care, I like their music, I used to like them as people, but as mentioned above, that has changed slightly recently.

Will still be cursing t'internet to high heaven on Friday when tickets go on sale.

[wschofield]

Dont suppose anyone has a link for any presale tickets do they

[DJBenson]

Getting tickets was the usual stress-filled debarcle. Site was unavailable for 10 minutes, then the transaction timed out, then it said my card number was invalid (NO IT WASN'T) and then it goes through with a watery "you may have tickets but you may not" :|

So, fingers crossed, I have got tickets for Manchester on the 12th of December.

All seater this time, and a snip at only £42.50 each :eek:

[spida1998]

Got mine for Liverpool, the official arena site is so much better than Ticketmaster/Seetickets/Ticketline

[Wooglie]

I tried getting tickets for the O2, but only ones I could get where the upper tier ones, so decided not to get them. Weird that the O2 ones went on sale at the same time as the normal sale.

[thomasc1982]

Extra date added for the o2...pretty much sold out already. Baffled by the lack of standing tickets at any of the dates. And given it seems all the decent seats never went on general sale, I didnt bother.

[DJBenson]

It's the first time I've ordered tickets that are seated that do not tell you where the seats are. I've ordered floor tickets but the floor of the MEN Arena is massive so it's still possible we'll be sat right at the back and might have been better off in the wings.

Very poor organisation with this tour, no presale, nothing from the band on the official forums, and the most expensive tickets I've ever bought. I'd guess at this being the last time I see them so it had better be good!!

[ascender]

No joy with Glasgow tickets.

No need to worry, there's some on eBay already....

[DJBenson]

Bugger! Could've sworn I ordered tickets for Friday 12th but confirmation states 11th :thinking:

Tickets were actually £46.75 each plus £2 booking fee so they better be spectacular!!

EDIT : Something not right, tickets should have been £42.50 plus the £2, not £46.75!!
EDIT2 : Ignore me. There's a booking fee and a transaction fee. Cheeky gits! :mad:

[GregB]

It's the first time I've ordered tickets that are seated that do not tell you where the seats are. I've ordered floor tickets but the floor of the MEN Arena is massive so it's still possible we'll be sat right at the back and might have been better off in the wings.


Sonds like you used Seetickets?

Ticketmaster the preferred agency for the MEN and you should always use them for seated gigs.

[ought]

Was keen to see Coldplay again, as when I last saw them at Wembley they were superb. But it is only seated, and near £50! Didn't even bother trying.

No standing seems a very odd decision.

[Nicky Ray]

So it's closer to £50 for tickets this time?

Thought it would have been closer to £40.

[DJBenson]

Sonds like you used Seetickets?

Ticketmaster the preferred agency for the MEN and you should always use them for seated gigs.

I've used Seetickets/Gigsandtours for the past three times I've seen them (Manchester 2001 - seated, Bolton 2005 - standing and Manchester - 2005) so didn't see any reason to go through Ticketmaster.

I did incidentally have a window open searching for tickets and after 10 minutes of the "waiting in line" ******** they've implemented it came back with no tickets available so it's a good job I did use See.

[hedgie]

Just proved the benefit of checking back regularly for tickets! Managed to get a ticket from Ticketmaster for Row 3 in block 112, right next to the stage, about 5 minutes ago for the Monday at the O2. View will be a bit side on, but I managed to find a few videos on You Tube of the Spice Girls taken from the same block and it isn't bad. Same block is going for £182.59 on the Get Me In site.

Looked to see if there were any more available and they've all gone again. Don't quite understand how this happens, but I'm in with hopefully a very good seat, somehow!

[DJBenson]

Congrats on the seat allocation, at least you know where you're gonna be sitting :D

Not too bothered this time to be honest, last time at Manchester we were right against the barrier where I got some fantastic pictures. This time I'm going with the other half who doesn't particularly like Coldplay so I would be happy with any seat with a clear view.

[Mr Majestik]

Don't know what went wrong but the new albums pretty good. (The singles by far the worst thing on it.)

I'm sure i'll grow to hate it when every radio station starts playing it 247 for the next year...

[DJBenson]

That is praise indeed :notworthy

[Mr Majestik]

That is praise indeed :notworthy

I think the praise should go to Brian Eno, his boffiny touch is all over it.

[George vader]

Listening to the new album now....praise be to Brian Eno indeed, great production, good tunes too :thumbs:

[ROne]

It's a case that I think Eno can imprint something on a group that without him would just become ordinary. I do wonder where James and U2 may have been without his input.

[Drysolder]

It's certainly light years better than the piece of crap that was X&Y, a LOT more listenable, for sure.

[machman]

I agree that the first single was probably the worst thing on the album. The full album is available to listen to for one week on the Coldplay MySpace page.

[Paul C]

Enjoyed the first listen. All the songs seem to have a different sound, which I like, so if you don't like one song, the next one will be something different. I take it Violet Hill was the first release as it's the most 'Coldplay'. How many songs 'change' sound half or 2/3rds of the way through. Makes you think you've listen to more songs though!

[GlennSh]

I agree that the first single was probably the worst thing on the album. The full album is available to listen to for one week on the Coldplay MySpace page.

I really like Violet Hill, so if its the worst thing on the album I'm going to enjoy this :thumbs:

[DJBenson]

I really like Violet Hill, so if its the worst thing on the album I'm going to enjoy this :thumbs:

That is my thought too - I really like the single, the video is very bizarre though :thinking:

Just ordered it through CD-Wow (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=12) so can't wait for it to arrive - I've even held off listening via "unconventional" methods on this one.

[GlennSh]

I've even held off listening via "unconventional" methods on this one.

There's nothing unconventional about MySpace ;)

[DM]

crap factoid: Brian Eno created the Windows sound.

[Mr Majestik]

crap factoid: Brian Eno created the Windows sound.

Isn't it in the Guinness book of records for most money paid for the shortest amount of music. Something like 1/4 million per second.

[Bish]

I really like Violet Hill, so if its the worst thing on the album I'm going to enjoy this :thumbs:
I was thinking that but having now heard the album I can say Violet Hill is the best track on it. Overall it's not a bad album and better than X&Y.

[GlennSh]

I'm really enjoying what I've heard so far. A big improvement on X & Y

[jonthomas83]

I loved X&Y so I think I'm going to love this.

One question though. I may have been out of touch for a while and haven't bought an album on release day for a long time now. The last one was the Foo's last year, but when did bands start releasing albums midway through the week?!?!

Monday was always my day to purchase a new album and I used to love it. I'm gutted I have to wait to be honest!

[baloobas]

Did anyone here enter the competition for tickets to the Brixton Academy/MSG shows ?
Or the free tickets for the BBC show for that matter ?
I read somewhere that winners would be notified by the 5th June.........oh well !

[jonthomas83]

Did anyone here enter the competition for tickets to the Brixton Academy/MSG shows ?
Or the free tickets for the BBC show for that matter ?
I read somewhere that winners would be notified by the 5th June.........oh well !

I entered and I haven't had confirmation/anything telling me I failed yet either.

[Mr Majestik]

I loved X&Y so I think I'm going to love this.

One question though. I may have been out of touch for a while and haven't bought an album on release day for a long time now. The last one was the Foo's last year, but when did bands start releasing albums midway through the week?!?!

Monday was always my day to purchase a new album and I used to love it. I'm gutted I have to wait to be honest!


It's a one off Thursday release. A few big bands have released albums midweek as a PR thing. (REM and Oasis spring to mind.) No idea why a Thursday though.

[jonthomas83]

Ah cheers for that, it's well weird innit!

Just making us wait longer (those of us who can't be arsed with MySpace) is just wrong! ;)

[GlennSh]

I entered and I haven't had confirmation/anything telling me I failed yet either.

me neither

[the_edge30]

Well i really like this new album, but then I have liked all of the albums so far, but this really is Coldplay do U2. Half the songs you could take out chris martins voice and stick Bonos in and you could have a U2 album.

Most likely down to Eno, listening to it at the moment, chris martin even sounds like Bono on some tracks. Not that I am complaining cause i love U2 with a passion aswell.

All in all I love it, Viva la Vida is just an awesome track, easily my favourite atm but the whole thing is a pretty well rounded album.

Its got Eno all over it though.

[tipicus]

Blimey, I just won two tickets to the Brixton Academy gig on Monday! Forgot I'd even entered that thing on their website.

Glad I like the new album :)

[stupidboyjj]

I've seen (somewhere) acoustic versions of Lost! and Lovers in Japan (i think), where do these come from? I assume they're not yet more 'hidden' tracks on the album proper. Are they from a legal download service?

[cabor]

I've seen (somewhere) acoustic versions of Lost! and Lovers in Japan (i think), where do these come from? I assume they're not yet more 'hidden' tracks on the album proper. Are they from a legal download service?

i think the Lost acoustic is from itunes.

[stupidboyjj]

Thought it might be something like that, unfortunately I don't want iTunes installed on this computer and you can't browse it unless it's installed and you've signed up for an account.

[baloobas]

Blimey, I just won two tickets to the Brixton Academy gig on Monday! Forgot I'd even entered that thing on their website.

Glad I like the new album :)

How did you hear ? Was it by email or did they send you tickets ?

[tipicus]

How did you hear ? Was it by email or did they send you tickets ?

Email with a link to claim the tickets on Ticketmaster. They've my name on the tickets and you have to show photo ID with the same name at the door. So it's going to be a fun time getting in then...

[GlennSh]

You jammy ************ !! Need a friend ?? ;)

[GregB]

I’m not really sure if this should go in this thread or not but Andy Gill has a written a great article about Coldplay in today’s Independent. I should warn fans that you might not like it


http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/features/andy-gill-why-i-hate-coldplay-844190.html

[MetalGearAl]

Really liking the album - Feels like quite a departure and works well as an album as a whole. It seems to merge together in such a way that I often find it quite hard to identify particular tracks, especially as mentioned before a few change mid-way.

Can see Lost? receiving a fair amount of radio play. The two title tracks are top too.

[Kirs-tea]

I’m not really sure if this should go in this thread or not but Andy Gill has a written a great article about Coldplay in today’s Independent. I should warn fans that you might not like it

http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/features/andy-gill-why-i-hate-coldplay-844190.html


A very good article!

[AndyHall]

I’m not really sure if this should go in this thread or not but Andy Gill has a written a great article about Coldplay in today’s Independent. I should warn fans that you might not like it


http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/features/andy-gill-why-i-hate-coldplay-844190.html



A very good article!

Or, yet another "look at me aren't I clever I'm going against the grain just to prove how cool I am" load of pretentious garbage :)

[LouBarlow]

I agree, that really is a crap, crap article. The fact that he alludes to there being something wrong with anthems and hooks, is hilarious.

[AndyHall]

I agree, that really is a crap, crap article. The fact that he alludes to their being something wrong with anthems and hooks, is hilarious.

Best comment posted on the article's site is a single four letter word (that would you get barred from this forum) posted by a "Dr H Shipman" :lol:

[ROne]

I agree, that really is a crap, crap article. The fact that he alludes to there being something wrong with anthems and hooks, is hilarious.

I agree, he's hating it for hating's sake.

The only thing remotely fair in the article is the observation about Chris Martin and his vocal anti-corporatism (itunes!) which scores some points, but it's difficult to exist outside of the system, preach to the largest audience and make a difference - would be my stock response.

[davey1970]

I can see some truth in some of that article, i have a vague but insubstantial sympathy with the overall feel of it, but it also has the blatant disregard to the value of actual tunes - hooks and anthems...choruses? melody? that seems so popular these days (often happens when keane are talked about i think) - it's like it's totally irrelevant somehow when at least in some ways its the most important thing.

what raised my eyebrow most though was in comparison to radiohead:

"it retains the crowd-pleasing hooks and singalong choruses"

what Radiohead songs is he on about? :p

it must be difficult being a music critic though, if you actually want to make a name for yourself, if you want to be a star like the people you despise cause of their success or maybe cause they're in the limelight - you have to do loud reviews like that, otherwise, god forbid, you might just actually give proper reviews of albums.

[Mr Majestik]

If he wanted good ammo to slag Coldplay off he needs only to watch the new video. It really does make you want to smack him regardless of what you think of the albums.

[thejetsons]

The album is only £7 from Asda.

I listened to it on myspace, wasn't brilliant. Will probably grow on me after a few listens.

[davey1970]

the facial close ups (oooh errr) are very annoying but it didnt strike me as that bad overall - liked the dancing politicians version on youtube mind.

[losimagic]

The album is only £7 from Asda.

I listened to it on myspace, wasn't brilliant. Will probably grow on me after a few listens.

anyone know what tescos/sainsburys/hmv are charging yet?

[dunkrag]

£8.75 at Sainsburys.

Listening now - pretty good on first run through. It just seems slightly easier to listen to than X&Y and a little less worthy.

[GregB]

£6.99 In Morrisons

[jonthomas83]

I love Coldplay and their first 3 albums had me hook, line and sinker. I own every song Coldplay have ever made, but this album just hasn't done anything for me on the first listen. I'm gutted that I don't like it so far. I need to listen to it another 20 million times first though (like I have to the other stuff!), but the first listen just didn't float my boat at all! Just my opinion! :(

[GlennSh]

I love Coldplay and their first 3 albums had me hook, line and sinker. I own every song Coldplay have ever made, but this album just hasn't done anything for me on the first listen. I'm gutted that I don't like it so far. I need to listen to it another 20 million times first though (like I have to the other stuff!), but the first listen just didn't float my boat at all! Just my opinion! :(

Odd. I liked the first two but was completely underwhelmed by X&Y. For me this was album is a return to form (thought that on 1st listen)
Give it a few more plays (as I'm sure you will !) ... It must grow on you :)

[TonyG]

First listen didn't do anything for me, but paid more attention on the 2nd listen & starting to enjoy it. I can already visualise scenes from next season's "ER" & "Greys Anatomy" that will feature several of the songs. ;)

[losimagic]

Tescos in the town centre here didn't have it O_o, HMV are doing it for £8.99

[wozwebs]

Asda - £7 instore

[jonthomas83]

Odd. I liked the first two but was completely underwhelmed by X&Y. For me this was album is a return to form (thought that on 1st listen)
Give it a few more plays (as I'm sure you will !) ... It must grow on you :)

Yeah I'm in work at the moment so can't listen to it now, but I'm really looking forward to listening to it on the way home and hopefully I'll get into the spirit of it in the next few listens. I've got my tickets booked for the O2 so yeah, you're right, I've got to like it! :)

Yeah wozwebs I had mine £7 ASDA instore too, bargain! :thumbs:

[MetalGearAl]

Just picked this up from Asda instore, only £7.

[ascender]

So its out today? I checked iTunes earlier and it was saying the 16th June.

[AndyHall]

So its out today? I checked iTunes earlier and it was saying the 16th June.

It's on iTunes now, but without the extra tracks that were available when it was on pre-order (so now it's exactly the same as the CD version).

The iTunes TV advertising could be interpreted as a bit of a con as they said "Viva La Vida" was an "iTunes exclusive". Yes it was - as a single track - but as the album is called the same thing it could have been interpreted that the whole album was an exclusive - which it certainly wasn't.

[avid fan]

The iTunes TV advertising could be interpreted as a bit of a con as they said "Viva La Vida" was an "iTunes exclusive". Yes it was - as a single track - but as the album is called the same thing it could have been interpreted that the whole album was an exclusive - which it certainly wasn't.

I like Voilet Hill, which I d/l'd some time ago - but the track on the i-tunes advert is appalling - just seems completely forgetable with cheesy lyrics. Was expecting big things of this album but that track suggests otherwise - particularly if that's the one the album's named after:|

[orac]

Listened to it several times - its real grower, this is the best thing they have done, so far...

They have gone in a different, better direction without doing a kid a.

[GlennSh]

I like Voilet Hill, which I d/l'd some time ago - but the track on the i-tunes advert is appalling - just seems completely forgetable with cheesy lyrics. Was expecting big things of this album but that track suggests otherwise - particularly if that's the one the album's named after:|

I really like that track...Other favourites are Lost & Cemetries of London

[ROne]

Chris Martin went all weird in a recent interview when questioned about the Album's title track.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/7452341.stm

[MetalGearAl]

I wish the clip they put on that page started a couple of minutes earlier, as they quote lines etc. which aren't included in the clip. Surely a better representation of the event would 2 minutes leading up to when he left, not from when he left!

[GlennSh]

I agree - although it sounds to me like he just had a case of the two-bob bits and needed to make sharp exit :eek:

[cervaro]

Should have cut the interview altogether and told them where to shove their album!

[MetalGearAl]

They just put in a mediocre performance on the Jonathan Ross show. It improved for Viva La Vida (which I really like it has to be said) but Violet Hill was a bit of a poor show, reallly showed that Chris isn't that great a singer!

[Mr Majestik]

They just put in a mediocre performance on the Jonathan Ross show. It improved for Viva La Vida (which I really like it has to be said) but Violet Hill was a bit of a poor show, reallly showed that Chris isn't that great a singer!

La Vida was mimed wasn't it? Sounded like it especially when the drummer was hitting the bell.

[MetalGearAl]

I don't know, I thought some of the backing was but didn't think it was completely mimed, surely not Chris? Maybe that's why it sounded better anyway :D

[AmazingTate]

Album is definitely a grower, at the moment it is what i would doze off music - something to put on when you get into bed, but i like it, different to most of what is out there at the moment.

[Idle Child]

I love Coldplay and their first 3 albums had me hook, line and sinker. I own every song Coldplay have ever made, but this album just hasn't done anything for me on the first listen. I'm gutted that I don't like it so far. I need to listen to it another 20 million times first though (like I have to the other stuff!), but the first listen just didn't float my boat at all! Just my opinion! :(

I know exactly what you mean, and I'm in the same boat as you. But you know what, ultimately it is what it is and listenting to it is to realise this is a progression of the sound we heard starting to emerge from Rush Of Blood, and on parts of X&Y. Coldplay are no longer indie/alternate rock. But then so what really, they've given us plenty of tunes to be porud of.

While listening to Viva La Vida album, I had the strangest thought. It sounded like Coldplay/Chris Martin are working for Unicef and I can see many of these tunes used to the background of many donation pleas. It's that kind of goodwill and unifying type of sound, like something almost designed for the opening ceremoney of the Olympics. :D

Regardless, my favourite track on here is Violet Hill. And it's made all the sweeter when you watch this: THE GREATEST VIDEO EVER MADE* (http://www.coldplay.com/video.php).

*opinion based fact.

[JonL]

Is the single indicitive of the album? If so, I'm staying well away.

[Idle Child]

I would say that the "Viva La Vida" single is more like what's to be found on the rest of the album.

It's music that's probably good for transatlantic flights, or long summer drives across the countryside.

[stupidgibbon]

Finding it average overall.

Viva La Vida is excellent, but also I'm finding Lost? a grower....

[fort]

When i first heard i thought, its rubbish. But after a few listens, i think its one of their best album to date!

[MetalGearAl]

I gave X+Y a listen yesterday to see if it was as chuff as I remember and it certainly is, especially after hearing what they've done with the new album.

[Mr Majestik]

I never made it to the end of X and Y. It's was like aural sleeping pills.

[MetalGearAl]

To be fair though the last track is one of the better ones :p

[Barny79]

Never really had much time for Coldplay but really liking the slightly more upbeat style.

[machman]

> Is the single indicitive of the album? If so, I'm staying well away.

No it's not. I didn't like the first single but I love the rest of the album.

[GAmbrose]

Having Listened to the the album about 3 times (Though never in one complete session) i'm still not sure what to make of it.

The opening track is excellent (Lyric free) and you think "Oh this is gonna be awesome" and then the 2nd track kicks in and it starts so slowly that it's a complete contrast to the opener. Thats actually one of the things I am having trouble getting my head around; So many of the tracks start slow and don't really kick in until about halfway through.

Slow-build tracks are fine so long as they are fairly lengthy, but most of the tracks on the album are fairly short (under 4 minutes), so when 90 seconds is a bit musically sparse and then suddenly you get the drums, guitar etc kicking in for the next 2 minutes but then it finishes it's quite odd. I'm surprised i'm struggling to be honest, all they've really done is thrown the traditional 'Verse, Chorus, Verse' song structure out of the Window and I love bands like Pink Floyd who don't really use that structure on a lot of the albums so I don't know why it's such a shock to the ears.

Another weird thing they've done is that the album technically has 10 tracks, but 3 of them actually contain 2 seperate songs...so really there are 13 songs, which I found quite jarring. I don't see the point in 'Hidden Tracks'

I'll definately need to listen to it multiple times, a lot of albums seem to be 'growers' now.

Gary A

[MetalGearAl]

I agree with you in part, a lot of the songs do sound like they're going to be fairly long epic tracks but actually turn out to be quite short. It doesn't take long to get through the album so suprised you haven't listened to it in one complete session!

Agree with you on the first track though, somehow the next couple don't keep up to the expectations the first track sets.

[GAmbrose]

My commute to work is 20-25 minutes and i've only listened to it in the car ;)

Gary A

[DJBenson]

Having listened to the album a couple of times, it is only just starting to grow on me. X&Y was an instant "like" for me but this on the first listen did not click. Songs which standout at present include;

Life in Technicolour
Lost and
Viva la Vida

...but every song has it's good points. Will give it a few more listens before passing final judgement.

Did anybody see their live performance on BBC2 this evening? Live outside of Television Centre. Should be on iPlayer soon...

[GlennSh]

Apparantly Viva La Vida (the song) could be No1 in the SINGLES chart this week...First time an album track has done that

[MetalGearAl]

I assume that's the Downloadable chart? Otherwise I'm wondering how you could measure the sales of a track off an album that isn't released as a single :)

They mentioned in the gig last night that Viva La Vida is No. 1 in the US? It's already really popular, everyone was screaming out for it at the gig.

Not a bad little set - though I get the impression they're not that great live. I don't know if that's just because watching a gig on TV is never that good, as plenty of people have said they're fantastic live.

[DJBenson]

The BBC set yesterday wasn't their best performance, it didn't sound very good at all, but as they only had 700 people to entertain, I doubt they'll have got their best kit out :D

I have seen them 4 times over 7 years and each time they have got better so I have great expectations of the Manchester gig in December. The "Lovers In Japan" track that they played at the end of the BBC session sounded fantastic and I can't wait to hear that in a massive venue.

[Fever Dawg]

Always had a bit of a soft spot for Coldplay and I'm loving this. I thought X&Y was a real grower but I'm instantly into this.

I think they've been listening to Arcade Fire while they've been away too. Which is never a bad thing ...

[GlennSh]

I assume that's the Downloadable chart? Otherwise I'm wondering how you could measure the sales of a track off an album that isn't released as a single :)

Following the new d/l rules its no longer a problem. If it's downloaded enough it will get in the singles chart, doesnt matter whether its a single or not. The only reason it hasnt charted so far is because it was previously a freebie for those pre-ordering the album on iTunes and was therefore chart ineligible.
Now its out as an album properly it can count towards the singles chart. Wierd I know but I dont make the rules :)

EDIT: Just reading Popbitch and they say it will be No1 too. Their first No1 as well :thumbs:

[bigman]

It is Number 1.

Pretty much the end of the 'singles' chart as well really - if an album track can get to number one in that chart what's the point?

I do like it though!

[Mr Majestik]

It is Number 1.

Pretty much the end of the 'singles' chart as well really - if an album track can get to number one in that chart what's the point?
!

I'd imagine when they finally get round to releasing the Beatles back catalog on itunes then the singles chart will be officially null and void.

[bigman]

I'd imagine when they finally get round to releasing the Beatles back catalog on itunes then the singles chart will be officially null and void.

Possibly - although is there still really that big a market for the Beatles digital back catalogue? Haven't most people just ripped their own CDs by now?

[Mr Majestik]

Possibly - although is there still really that big a market for the Beatles digital back catalogue? Haven't most people just ripped their own CDs by now?

The CD's are getting remastered (hopefully to the quality of the Love cd.) The original CD's are so badly mastered that a lot of people will be rebuying.

[GlennSh]

but surely not as MP3s ;)

[Richie]

Why exactly did "they" change the chart rules to let any track chart? Surely this has the potential to a make a mockery of record company release patterns and pop video production etc? I'm guessing Viva La Vida would've been a single in a few months anyway with a video but that's been given the kybosh now. Or is there a video already?

[GlennSh]

It changed at the start of the year. Now that downloads count for something like 97% of all "singles" sold it was inevitable really (been this way in the US for a while). I had the same debate with James Masterton (the chart blog guy) at the time as it could make a mockery of the chart...But then again the record companies marketing strategies of the late 90's, early 0's made a mockery anyway (new number ones every week, a boy band's debut single going straight in at one etc etc...)

As for the video there is one recorded and is currently being finished...It will be intersting to see how long the track hangs around for in the chart before it gets a "proper" single release (assuming it will)

[DJBenson]

Just a quick heads up that AbsoluteRadio (http://www.absoluteradio.co.uk) (Formerly Virgin Radio) are playing out an exclusive gig that Coldplay did for them in Munich last month. It's on around 7.30pm this evening.

Getting excited about the gig later this year...although am still anxious about the lack of seat allocation thus far.

[DJBenson]

For anybody that missed this, and anybody wanting to listen again, it's available online (Part 1 (http://www.absoluteradio.co.uk/player/6047/live_in_munich__part_1_.html)/Part 2) (http://www.absoluteradio.co.uk/player/6048/live_in_munich__part_2_.html).

Sounded really good tonight, lots of piano pieces, very melodic renditions of some of the bigger hits.

[DJBenson]

Tickets arrived this morning :clap:

If I've looked at the right floor plan, our tickets look pretty decent - in Block D which is the second block from the stage on the right as you look at the stage...

http://www.jwtcs.co.uk/11404s.gif

My tickets are Block D, Row N, Seats 9/10.

Not quite the "against the barrier" position I had last time at Manchester.

Very annoyed that the tickets turned up regular post, second class post too!! :mad:

[DJBenson]

Anybody got any idea who the support act(s) are this year?

EDIT : Also a heads up that the new 8 track EP "Prospekts March" is now available. Although I feel slightly cheated that this should have been included with the original LP, I am loving the new incarnation of "Life in Technicolour" - the stadium tour will benefit from having that as an opener as opposed to the shorter, instrumental version from VLV.

[GlennSh]

I think they've done it right (the EP release that is). those that have the album already can just buy the EP (or d/l individual tracks). Those that havent can buy the 1 or 2 disc versions.
Much more annoying is the trend for repackaging old albums with extra tracks forcing punters to buy the entire CD again (eg Rihanna/Duffy /Leona - No1 again!)

[CRB]

I hope they release the double pack in a normal jewel case - I cant stand those flimsy cheap eco-friendly cardboard sleeves. Do they think they are going to save the environment by issuing cheap packaging ... oh please !

[spida1998]

Stadium dates for next September...support from Jay-Z!

http://www.ticketline.co.uk/news/details/coldplay

[GlennSh]

They must be fans - Jay-Z is on the new version of Lost too...Cant stand most of his stuff myself but sounds alright on the single

[GAmbrose]

Life in Technicolour 2 is much better than what is on the original album.

I said in this very thread:
The opening track is excellent (Lyric free) and you think "Oh this is gonna be awesome" and then the 2nd track kicks in and it starts so slowly that it's a complete contrast to the opener. Thats actually one of the things I am having trouble getting my head around; So many of the tracks start slow and don't really kick in until about halfway through.

Slow-build tracks are fine so long as they are fairly lengthy, but most of the tracks on the album are fairly short (under 4 minutes), so when 90 seconds is a bit musically sparse and then suddenly you get the drums, guitar etc kicking in for the next 2 minutes but then it finishes it's quite odd.

So whats with this new EP, was the album rushed out or something?

Gary A

[GlennSh]

Chris Martin said on R1 it was a collection of tracks they "were too afraid to release as part of the [original] album" whatever that means :?:

[CRB]

Well I quite like "Prospekt's March" EP but fail to see why they included Lost+ and the Lovers in Japan Osaka mix - both of them are almost identical to the versions on "Viva la Vida", so I've deleted them from my ipod already ! Failed to add to the "Viva la Vida" experience, just served to lenghten/repeat it.

[Raphph]

Chris Martin said on R1 it was a collection of tracks they "were too afraid to release as part of the [original] album" whatever that means :?:

You can totally see this listening to some of the tracks. It baffles me why they bury "Chinese Sleep Chant" as some hidden track in between "Yes" and "Viva La Vida" in the album. It's a daring, agressive almost rock-like Sigur Ros track with barely audible lyrics that would have really pushed the band into a harder direction (similar to older b-side "One I Love"). Instead, they pussy out.

Am liking the new EP too, particularly "Prospekt's March / Poppyfields" and "Rainy Day". Both should be on the album - it's not as if the album is too long already is it?

Coldplay need balls.

[owenjt]

Anyone know who the supporting act is yet? Off to see them at the NIA tomorrow, looking forward to it!

Edit: Just found out it's Eugene Francis Jnr and The Juniors. Never heard of them myself but sound ok, check out their myspace page: www.myspace.com/eugenefrancisjnr (http://www.myspace.com/eugenefrancisjnr)

[zenza]

Only song I like from the album is viva la vida.

[goTimmygo]

Anyone know who the supporting act is yet? Off to see them at the NIA tomorrow, looking forward to it!

Edit: Just found out it's Eugene Francis Jnr and The Juniors. Never heard of them myself but sound ok, check out their myspace page: www.myspace.com/eugenefrancisjnr (http://www.myspace.com/eugenefrancisjnr)


Seeing them in Brum on Tuesday, although wont rush to get there for the support!

[Barney_Tabasco]

They were bloody brilliant in Sheffield last night and i'm just a fair-weather fan. They've really moved on. Great gig.

[acs]

I'm off to see them tomorrow night. Can anyone tell me what time they come on stage? We want to get there as late as possible!

[Barney_Tabasco]

They came on about 9.10.

[acs]

They came on about 9.10.

Great news. We're leaving our young son with grandparents for the first time at night so we want to minimize the time that we're out of the house. I forgot to ask what time they finish.

Thanks for letting me know.

[Lorne.t]

When you need a question like that answered there's no point in bothering about what time the band comes on as it's far easier phoning the venue and asking what time their curfew is.

[owenjt]

Yep came on just after 9 and didn't finish until about 10.45. Had a really great night, wasn't really bothered about Eugene Francis Jnr and The Juniors although they had a DJ on after them called Jon Hopkins who was pretty good if you like that sort of electronic music, and Coldplay were on form as usual.

[DJBenson]

Bit disappointed with the support...

2002 (MEN Arena) : Ian McCulloch / Feeder
2005 (Bolton) : Morning Runner / Elbow
2005 (MEN Arena) : Richard Ashcroft
2008 (MEN Arena) : Who????????

Most expensive tickets, least heard of support. Shan't be going to any more after this one, really fancied seeing them in a stadium tour (LCCC would've been wicked) but Jay-Z - really?!

EDIT : Must comment on the EP, love the new version of LiT, Rainy Days is superb and despite not being able to tell the difference between the album version and EP version - Lovers in Japan is probably my favourite track of recent times.

[Mr Majestik]

Coldplay are being sued by widdly widdly guitar God Joe Satarianiininininini for knicking one of his rare non widdly guitar solo's.

Got to admit he's got a point...

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/1ofFw9DKu_I&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/1ofFw9DKu_I&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

[PaulieC79]

Looking forward to MEN gig a week today. Saw them at Reebok when they last toured and they really took me and mates by surprise and were very very good.

[GlennSh]

Coldplay are being sued by widdly widdly guitar God Joe Satarianiininininini for knicking one of his rare non widdly guitar solo's.

Got to admit he's got a point...

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/1ofFw9DKu_I&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/1ofFw9DKu_I&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

Interesting to see how this goes. Obviously hearing the two side by side they are very similar, but then again its a straight C/D/Em/G chord progression which a million and one other songs have used before (although just not as successfully ;) )

[JonL]

Interesting to see how this goes. Obviously hearing the two side by side they are very similar, but then again its a straight C/D/Em/G chord progression which a million and one other songs have used before (although just not as successfully ;) )

To me it sounds like Satch has nicked his melody from Harvest For The World by The Christians, and that song is better than either of theirs.

[thomasc1982]

It does sound beyond similar...but how do you prove it either way...

[GlennSh]

To me it sounds like Satch has nicked his melody from Harvest For The World by The Christians, and that song is better than either of theirs.

The Christians ??!! I think you'll find that was a cover ;)
But yes these things normally get thrown out of court because the "original" can be proven to be "heavily inspired" by something else. I remember Hall & Oates taking Stevie Wonder to court becuase his PartTime Lover used their Maneater bassline (which it did)... but they were also both very similar to some early Motown track that it was thrown out
At the end of the day there's only 12 notes :)

[JonL]

The Christians ??!! I think you'll find that was a cover ;)

I thought it might have been, thanks for the correction.:thumbs:

Anyway, who the Hell would want to plagerise Joe Satriani?:thinking:

[WildWayz]

The thing is, Joe has been writing If I Could Fly since around 1989 when he was doing the Flying in a Blue Dream album.

The only reason why it has gone to court, is due to Cold Play NOT willing to enter discussions about it, or the discussions broke down. Joe has nothing to gain from this - he has finished his tour and has no albums coming out.

I read an article on The Guardian's website, and the author really doesnt know what he is on about. He makes out Joe is some two-bit guitarist - when he isnt. He has influence more people than Cold Play ever will and has contributed so much to instrumental/rock guitaring including Pitch Axis Theory etc.

He is probably one of the nicest guys in the industry too - never has a bad thing to say about anyone. He does his own thing very well and although some of his recent work isnt as good as his older work, it still sells loads and he tours all over the world.

I hope they can sort things out, for the sake of both artists.

[GlennSh]

probably never actually got to coldplay themselves, was no doubt dealt with by a bunch of suits beforehand. The extra publicity might mean they now step in

[DJBenson]

The thing is, Joe has been writing If I Could Fly since around 1989 when he was doing the Flying in a Blue Dream album.

The only reason why it has gone to court, is due to Cold Play NOT willing to enter discussions about it, or the discussions broke down. Joe has nothing to gain from this - he has finished his tour and has no albums coming out.

I read an article on The Guardian's website, and the author really doesnt know what he is on about. He makes out Joe is some two-bit guitarist - when he isnt. He has influence more people than Cold Play ever will and has contributed so much to instrumental/rock guitaring including Pitch Axis Theory etc.

He is probably one of the nicest guys in the industry too - never has a bad thing to say about anyone. He does his own thing very well and although some of his recent work isnt as good as his older work, it still sells loads and he tours all over the world.

I hope they can sort things out, for the sake of both artists.

Unless you are doing it deliberately, there is no space between Cold and play in 'Coldplay'. :thumbs:

[thomasc1982]

Just thought I would echo WildWayz.... Joe doesnt get the credit he deserves for his work with other people too - he gave lessons to Kirk Hammett for example! OK his last few albums have all been a bit meh, but he has done some really great stuff.

I had the pleasure to meet him a while ago and he is genuinly one of the nicest guys you could hope to meet. Just hope he doesnt get a load of bad press for this...

[DJBenson]

Off to Manchester tonight, can't wait!!

[mcallisterian]

Off to Manchester tonight, can't wait!!

me too.. i bought some extra released tix off ticketmaster last nite.... saw them at liverpool on sunday and was so impressed i want more!!!!! :clap:

[DJBenson]

Wow! Last night was amazing. The set list was a fantastic mix of old and new, including a rare outing for "Green Eyes" from "A Rush of Blood To The Head" which was played acoustically from the back of the room by the boys in the crowd - fantastic!

The lighting and visuals were superb, with strange projection globes dotted around the room and lighting rigs that contorted into strange and wonderful shapes.

Manchester was treated to a welcome return of the confetti filled yellow balloons during "Yellow" (of course) whilst towards the end of the set, the arena floor was flooded with tens of thousands of paper butterflies which fell from the room during "Lovers in Japan".

The now obligatory "techno" mix of "God Put A Smile Upon Your Face/Talk" went down a storm, and it was a great chance for those on the floor to get close to the group as they arranged themselves on the end of a catwalk-style platform jutting out onto the arena floor.

The tree song encore was the perfect end to a perfect night, and it was really good to see them do the new version of "Life in Technicolor" live.

All in all, I would say, apart from the poor* (who where they?) support act, this was the finest I have seen them, and I am urged to get tickets for the LCCC gig next year, despite the every spiraling cost of tickets.

* In all fairness to the support act, the sound arrangement was terrible, and the arena was only half full as they began to play, but apart from not knowing who they were (4/5 blokes and a screaming woman on a keyboard and mouth accordion thing) had no chance against the terrible sound setup.

EDIT: The floor staff were less intimidating than usual so people were allowed to take photo's and video to their hearts content...wonder if Coldplay themselves have had the rules relaxed. Got several full songs and a mix of intro's and outro's on my N95.

[PaulieC79]

Just back. WOW. Absolutely amazing. Great set list, great stage and light show. I thought they were good at the Reebok, but this was even better. This isn't a gig, it's a show. Chris Martin is just a superb entertainer and the crowd was on fine form too. I'm going to have to see about LCCC tix as well.

[richdmx]

Anyone know who is support for tonights gig at the 02?

[yaffle]

Very much looking forward to tonight's show - the reviews for the tour have been great :thumbs:

[hedgie]

You're in for a great time tonight. I went last night and the gig was one of the best I've seen, and I've been gigging for twenty years now!

I've put a couple of photo's on my flickr stream, but don't want to put them in the thread right now, as it may ruin the surprise of part of the performance tonight. If you want to take a look, click on the links below.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/hedgie72/3111453867/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/hedgie72/3111453497/

I think the supports tonight are The High Wire and Jon Hopkins. Hopkins supported last night and was, quite frankly, just background electronica music played along to an animation video. OK if you like that sort of stuff, I suppose, but this is someone whose tastes are generally more in the Iron Maiden and Metallica direction! Eugene Francis was the other support last night and he was OK, but I don't think I'll be rushing out to buy either performer's music in the future.

[glaslyn]

Didn't think much of 'The Highwire' as support in Manchester in all honesty but Coldplay put on an excellent show :notworthy. I can really see these guys putting some shows together that get somewhere close to U2/Stones productions if they're still popular in 10-15 years.

As a seasoned gig goer averaging 5 or so gigs a month over 15 years, I must say that support acts at some of the winter gigs seems to have gotten worse recently while the prices have continued to go up:nono: Fair do's - excellent show by Coldplay, but after the "admin fees" the ticket was £45, which I would have been far happier about had there been some decent support. I suppose it's due to availability of acts and the fact that people have to get a start somewhere.

Prehaps it's just me feeling the pinch at the moment and being a grumpy git :lol:

Oh well, Merry Christmas everbody, may 2009 bring you many gigs to go to!

[Soprano]

Was dragged along to the 02 last night after the wife bagged a couple of tickets from eBay. I never go to gigs, (my last and only one was Madonna Blond Ambition back when I were a lad). I thought it was a GREAT show. Really surprised how much I enjoyed it. Complete entertainment.

[Max Maz]

I also went to the gig on Monday at the O2, it was great, Coldplay are an amazing band live and their music really comes alive. They sound pretty different to the record when they play live I think.

[kmurph]

Just to add my 2 cents. Saw them in the new O2 in Dublin last night and they were absolutely fantastic. Even threw in a cover of "Fairytale Of New York" which had the entire place singing their hearts out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqCHQ5VITLc

[George vader]

Even threw in a cover of "Fairytale Of New York" which had the entire place singing their hearts out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqCHQ5VITLc

:notworthy
Live Chrimbo classic heaven!!!!

[RobDickinson]

Bah 2 nights in NZ both in Auckland cant realy travel for it.

[new]

You can totally see this listening to some of the tracks. It baffles me why they bury "Chinese Sleep Chant" as some hidden track in between "Yes" and "Viva La Vida" in the album. It's a daring, agressive almost rock-like Sigur Ros track with barely audible lyrics that would have really pushed the band into a harder direction (similar to older b-side "One I Love"). Instead, they pussy out.

Am liking the new EP too, particularly "Prospekt's March / Poppyfields" and "Rainy Day". Both should be on the album - it's not as if the album is too long already is it?

Coldplay need balls.

Anyone know if there was ever an original complete track list for the 'LP' & 'EP' tracks combined?

[MetalGearAl]

Did anyone enter the lottery to win tickets to see them and The Killers at the War Child Concert (http://www.warchild.org.uk/heroes/killers_coldplay_war_child_concert)?

I entered but didn't get an email on Friday, so can only assume I didn't make it :(

If anyone entered and can't make use of the two tickets, I'll gladly buy them. Though having said that I believe they're named tickets with a photo ID required to use them!

[MetalGearAl]

No one going then? They put 22 cancelled tickets back on sale today and I managed to bag 2. Both level 3 seating, but I hear at the Shepherd's Bush Empire pretty much all the seats offer a great view?

Going to be certainly better than standing miles away at one of the Wembley gigs...

[GlennSh]

No one going then? They put 22 cancelled tickets back on sale today and I managed to bag 2. Both level 3 seating, but I hear at the Shepherd's Bush Empire pretty much all the seats offer a great view?

Going to be certainly better than standing miles away at one of the Wembley gigs...

Didnt know that. Did you just get an email saying you'd won or did you have to do anything to re-enter for the 22 ?
Gutted as I'm in London this week too!
Cheers

[MetalGearAl]

They were released straight onto the Ticketmaster site, wasn't part of the original ballot it seems! They went in minutes I think.

[Spiritinthesky]

I'm sure they'll do very well at the Brits tonight.

[new]

I'm sure they'll do very well at the Brits tonight.

:suspect:

[Silent Voice]

Anyone going this week to the Wembley gigs ?

[new]

Anyone going this week to the Wembley gigs ?

No, but really wish I was now:(

[Silent Voice]

Girls Aloud (by special request from Chris Martin) Jay-Z and White Lies are supporting them at Wembley.:)

[DM]

WTF. Sounds like a nightmare.

[Silent Voice]

WTF. Sounds like a nightmare.

That is your opinion.:) whereas others may differ.:)

[boonspoon]

Was at the gig at Hampden last night. Great show.

[rustybin]

I had tickets for their Tampa Gig in Florida last month which was cancelled the day before due to illness. I'd planned to propose to my Girlfriend afterwards as well. Very disappointing.

[TheoGB]

I had tickets for their Tampa Gig in Florida last month which was cancelled the day before due to illness. I'd planned to propose to my Girlfriend afterwards as well. Very disappointing.

So you didn't propose in the end?

[PlexShaw]

Anyone going this week to the Wembley gigs ?
Yes, I'm going tonight. Should hopefully be fun. :)

[rustybin]

So you didn't propose in the end?

I did, but it was at the Travelodge on the 192 in Kissimmee instead. Not quite as romantic! Best laid plans and all that. My back-up was the Shuttle Launch. Also cancelled.

[NicolaUK]

I did, but it was at the Travelodge on the 192 in Kissimmee instead. Not quite as romantic! Best laid plans and all that. My back-up was the Shuttle Launch. Also cancelled.

Do you ever get the feeling things just aren't meant to be ;)

[MetalGearAl]

Show last night was awesome, solid 4 hours or so of music :)

[madstu]

Show last night was awesome, solid 4 hours or so of music :)

Girls Aloud were quite dissapointing I thought. But Jay Zed was very good, I really enjoyed his show.

Coldplay were fantastic, great crowd interaction, they actually put in some real effort with the things that they did. The mexican wave was pretty cool. Chris Martin proved what a great showman he is, and I always thought that he was a pretty grumpy bugger.

Great entertainment, wiped the floor with many big bands I have seen in big stadia. Recommended :thumbs:

PS didnt see White Lines, was told they were pretty good.

[GlennSh]

Grumpy :?:
One of the things that annoyed me about he is he's always too damn happy!!

[PlexShaw]

Girls Aloud were quite dissapointing I thought. But Jay Zed was very good, I really enjoyed his show.
I was the other way round: Girls Aloud were really enjoyable (for some obvious reasons :n0rty:), whilst Jay-Z had me reaching for the revolver.

[swanny]

I did, but it was at the Travelodge on the 192 in Kissimmee instead. Not quite as romantic! Best laid plans and all that. My back-up was the Shuttle Launch. Also cancelled.

Did she say yes?

[rustybin]

Did she say yes?

Yep. Getting married next summer. Very exciting :)

[swanny]

Yep. Getting married next summer. Very exciting :)

Congratulations mate. :clap:

[rustybin]

Congratulations mate. :clap:

Cheers. Never been happier. Bloody scary at the time though!

[CRB]

Was there at Wembley, moved around and ended up metres away from them when they appeared for the acoustic bit in the mid-stadium. Great, great show.

[GlennSh]

heads up as just noticed there's a South bank Special on @ 10:30 tonight :thumbs:

[MetalGearAl]

It's on at 10:15 apparently, just so you don't miss the first 15 mins :)

[GlennSh]

well - I was close ;)