The band’s sixth studio album has two clear influences: the electronic dance music trend, and frontman Chris Martin’s “conscious uncoupling” from wife Gwyneth Paltrow. Doing away with their pop-rock sound for electro-synths, the short but sweet concept record revolves around lost love. Singles Magic and A Sky Full of Stars are stand outs for Chris’ haunting vocals, while Midnight and Always in My Head capture the mood through a thumping bass line. Repetitive lyrics show a lack of originality, but it’s clear the emphasis is on the music with heavy chunks of instrumental.
Stars: 3
