The cover of Mylo Xyloto is a graffiti-splattered maelstrom of color that bombards the eye like a set of fireworks. With even their cover art looking like an obnoxious attempt to draw attention, Coldplay once again appears to be foregoing subtlety in favor of grandeur.
Critics have already used this tendency as a reason to pan the superstar quartet, citing the album’s meaningless yet catchy title and formulaic approach in a bid to prove that Coldplay is all style without substance. But the band shamelessly churns out one epic showstopper after another, and with good reason—their strength lies in their ability to translate universal themes into titanic anthems.
Mylo Xyloto is a concept album that explores what frontman Chris Martin calls “a romance in an oppressive environment.” Tinged with candy-colored rebellion and heavy with escapism, the concept establishes an ebullient atmosphere. This rousing sensation is immediately felt in the opening duo of “Mylo Xyloto” and “Hurts Like Heaven.” Probably the fastest Coldplay song in history, “Heaven” effectively combines the band’s classic sound with new electronic influences.
Next comes another highlight, “Paradise,” which deftly mixes signature Coldplay chart-topping ingredients (violins and a “whoa-oh” refrain) with cascading vocals and irresistible melody. Continuing the showstopper trend, the track list follows with arena anthem “Charlie Brown,” which could have only been created for a stadium of shiny-eyed youths.
Other notables include the quiet yet powerful acoustic ballad “Us Against the World” and lead single “Every Teardrop is a Waterfall,” which (if you ignore the cringe-inducing title) is an appealing ode to finding refuge in music. “Princess of China” is a graceful Rihanna collaboration that features a seductive, synthesized sound. The remaining songs are noticeably weaker and do little more than contribute to a sense of coherency.
It is easy to dismiss Coldplay as merely an assembly line for sugar-coated hits. To do so, however, is to ignore the very real ability that has ensured the band’s longevity. Though no lyrical geniuses, they are masters of creating uplifting melodies. Mylo Xyloto will galvanize Coldplay haters yet again, but let’s face it, they’re just jealous.
