Coldplay first attained worldwide success on the strength of their memorable romantic-dream pop - the classic "Yellow," from its Parachute debut being just one gleaming example. By the time of its third album, X&Y, the band had grown to such ridiculous commercial heights that it could easily have stuck to earlier formulas without risking or adding anything new. Yet Coldplay explores a lot of new territory here, referencing everyone from Kraftwerk to Radiohead. The opener "Square One" launches things with sweeping notes before the drums skitter into a simmering beat and the melody builds to majestic heights. The cinematic scope of "Low" incorporates layers of ringing guitars, lush arrangements, and intricate, mesmerizing melodies, while "Talk" pays homage to '70s Kraut-rock. And then, of course, there's "Speed of Sound," simply the latest in a string of massive hits that have made Coldplay one of this decade's few new arena-worthy bands. - iTunes
