For most of 2014, I really didn't love Ghost Stories: I thought the production was too modern pop and I disliked TL, ASFOS and I even felt O was a sub-par closer. But for some reason about a year after its release, I found myself listening to the album on repeat..not just individual songs..but the album. The songs flow so smoothly and every track is dreamy in its own way. I even found myself opened up to the energy of ASFOS, despite the dull songwriting, and the strange atmosphere of True Love, despite the unoriginal drumbeat and obnoxious vocals.
I still think Coldplay made some frustrating production decisions on a lot of tracks (why is the e-bow on Oceans not like the live version???). I also wish they dived deeper in the dark ambience they teased the album with--it is a really poppy record after all. But I have come to accept the fun indie-pop vibes mixed with the more moody tracks. The band did a great job making a unique atmosphere for this album, and there is something addicting about it that is both uplifting and sad at the same time.
Some days, it is my favorite Coldplay album, and other days I think it is right down at the bottom of the bucket with AHFOD. Just depends on your feels.