Coldplay album gives head rush

Preston Jones

Daily Staff Writer

In film, it's rare that sequels improve upon the original. That idea likewise carries over into music it's rare that sophomore releases come anywhere close to achieving the often-stunning heights scaled by promising breakthroughs.

This is not to say that follow-ups don't often equal or surpass their predecessors. Case in point: the sequel to "The Godfather" is as loved, if not more so, than the original.

So it should be with the British rockers Coldplay's newest album. "A Rush of Blood to the Head" is a phenomenal, assured collection of songs that deliver on the promise of their American breakthrough, 2000's "Parachutes."

While "Parachutes" coasted on the success of the ubiquitous single "Yellow," "A Rush of Blood" does one better by featuring one of the most gorgeous singles in the last five years, "In My Place."

It's an exquisite rock song that begs the listener to hit the repeat button if only to hear guitarist Jon Buckland's chiming riff soar over front man Chris Martin's delicate vocals.

"Parachutes" relied on somber arrangements soaked in echoing guitars; the strongest tracks on "A Rush of Blood to the Head" center on the piano, the cascading notes of "Clocks," as well as the wistful "The Scientist."

The rest of the quartet also has a chance to shine throughout "A Rush of Blood." Will Champion's drums power the opener "Politik" and Guy Berryman's bass subtly colors songs like "Warning Sign."

There's not a weak track to be found on "A Rush of Blood" (which, incidentally, is British slang for a rash decision). Every single cut is amazing, both musically and lyrically.

Coldplay even tries their hand at country with "Green Eyes"and the results are, as they say, quite brill.

While some fans may gripe about the album's length (it clocks in at around 48 minutes), this is certainly a case of quality over quantity.

In fact, the band had completed "A Rush of Blood" late last year and elected to scrap many of the tracks, feeling that they were inferior to the music on "Parachutes."

With Brit rock releases such as this and other notables like Doves (The Last Broadcast), it's a great time to be a fan of bands from over the pond.

The level of quality and consistency with which they knock it out of the park should serve as a lesson for the hackneyed rockers -- I'm looking at you, Creed -- that currently clog American radio and TV.

When expectations for follow-up projects are exceeded, be they cinematic or musical, there is often reason to rejoice.

"A Rush of Blood to the Head" easily lands near the top of the very short list of must-have releases in 2002. Run, don't walk, and pick up this outstanding album.

One can only hope that this is only the beginning of great things for Coldplay.
hello there & you too