Coldplay’s legacy lives on as the British band’s sixth studio album, “Ghost Stories,” spins listeners a different yarn than before. Set to be released on May 16, this much anticipated new release chronicles the complexities of love, heartbreak and emotional acceptance at the end of love.
This album is a direct narrative that results from the recent divorce of Coldplay’s lead singer Chris Martin from his now ex-wife, actress Gwyneth Paltrow. The first single of the album, titled “Magic,” puts the listener down a path of whimsy and sentimental evocation. Martin declares, “No, I don’t, no I don’t, no I don’t, no I don’t, it’s true / Want anybody else but you,” telling the audience of how much Paltrow must mean to him. ”Magic” is perhaps the most recognizable for Coldplay fans who know of the “Mylo Xyoto” album. The vocals reign supreme in both the catchy chorus and understated lyrics.
Whether Martin is addressing feelings of love or heartbreak seems to be muddled, because this song refers to both emotions at once. The lyrics croon, “Call it magic, cut me into two / And with all your magic, I disappear from view.” It seems Martin is simultaneously broken-hearted yet aware of feeling the “magic” that loving someone provides. This narrative provides insight into the rest of the album, which continues along the same line of accepting a broken heart while not letting go of love.
Perhaps influenced by their other vibrant and optimistic choruses, Coldplay’s “A Sky Full of Stars” starts off strong, accompanied by a melodic piano and energetic beat. It was produced in part by Avicii, a Swedish DJ/Producer known for his club hits. In spite of this, the song’s lyrics are just as fraught as “Magic,” and the lyrical narrative expresses the pain of accepting the end of love. The emotionally-charged lyrics, such as, “Cause you’re a sky full of stars, I’m going to give you my heart / I don’t care, go on and tear me apart / I don’t care if you do, ooh-ooh / Cause in a sky full of stars, I think I saw you” characterize the thought provoking yet rhythmical tune.
“A Sky Full of Stars” is one of those songs that gives an insight into the artist’s pain but simultaneously takes the listener’s mind off their own. This song is Martin’s declaration of heartbreak, of being ripped into two, but also of acceptance of love’s unpredictable course. Both brave and personal, this song is a stand out for fans of the band.
“Midnight” provides an elusive, melodic shift unlike the rest of the album. Martin’s voice, usually sharp and focused, becomes a reminiscent blur, hazed over by electronic effects that make it much deeper. The lilting drum and synth beats that accompany the song’s background make up the haunting composition as well.
While the album is a far cry from some of the band’s vivid or heart-wrenching past albums, it is an incredibly personal narrative, and, at the very least, a transitional work that shows the staying power of Martin’s vocals and the rest of the band’s skills in appealing to a wide fan base. If this album tore your heart open, just wait for the next. If Coldplay has proven anything in the past with their success, it is that genius often lies on the other side of heartbreak.
