I loved X&Y, with AROBTTH being my other top favorite of theirs.
I think the first two records are gold. X&Y had a couple good tunes...and then they tried to be U2. They sounded better when they were ripping off Bends-era Radiohead.
I just find it funny that they admit to not having any meaning behind the name Mylo Xyloto. They even said it means nothing and that they regret naming it so.
I loved this album. A Rush Of Blood To The Head is when I got into Coldplay. They always wrote relaxing music that was fun to listen to but after a while it was obvious they had followed the same format for so long. My Uncle heard Viva La Vida and thought it sounded like every other Coldplay album. I understand the hate for Mylo Xyloto as some don't wanna hear music with synth or guest vocals by Rihanna (Surprisingly enjoyed despite not liking her work...she has a good voice). This album took me by surprise. Coldplay removed their safety blanket of fame and fortune and made a record that would be polarizing to fans but a good change for the band. They spiced things up and yet it is still recognizably Coldplay for the most of the album.
It is a prime example of a band changing styles up yet outdoing themselves and having work pay off. I did not think I would love another Coldplay album like I did A Rush of Blood to The Head or X & Y. Viva La Vida just got overplayed and felt lacking. Mylo Xyloto is not for everyone but its artistic expression and the progression of band really drew me in. I am catching them on tour this year as this was in my top 10 for sure last year.
I think the first two records are gold. X&Y had a couple good tunes...and then they tried to be U2. They sounded better when they were ripping off Bends-era Radiohead.
I actually liked them trying to sound U2-ish; I like the anthem/epic-ness of it. But to each his own, haha.