Rivers Cuomo made Coldplay's "Viva La Vida" 'significantly nerdier' when Weezer covered it in New York City on Wednesday (Oct. 28) night, that is according to ChartAttack anyway. Here's what they had to say about the Coldplay cover performance:

According to Stereogum, Cuomo, clad in a geeky track suit, performed the Grammy Award-winning tune before the rest of Weezer joined him on stage for the show at the P.C. Richard & Song Theatre. Cuomo clearly isn't that familiar with the song, since he had a music stand with the lyrics to "Viva La Vida" set up in front of him, but he made sure to do a lot of hand-waving a la Chris Martin...

We aren't sure what Martin would think of Cuomo slapping his own butt to the beat, though. We're also not sure what's with the Tai Chi movements before the bridge of "waaaa-ooohhhhh ohhh ohhh"s at the end of the song, but anyway, it's still hilarious.

And this wasn’t just a simple acoustic cover… no, Cuomo brought along full classical accompaniment, further adding to the epicness of the performance. Violins and cellos were played, bells were rung, and Cuomo had the crowd “Woah”-ing with the best of them.

You can watch the video and add your comments at the Coldplay forum here onwards. Weezer's seventh studio album, Raditude, is out Tuesday (Nov. 3).

Photos of Coldplay at LCCC, Old Trafford, Manchester (12 September 2009):

Pictures by Jayzo (formerly Jizo, AKA Chris Allen)

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 1000 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

November 2, 2009 - submitted by Will, Australia

Q. Oracle, I was reading the other day that to choose who was the singer for Coldplay Chris, Guy, Will and Jonny wrestled. They did this because they knew that the singer would get all of the publicity. Is this true? Thanks a lot.

The Oracle replies:

There's no truth in that whatsoever.

November 2, 2009 - submitted by Jordan, New Zealand

Q. Hey Oracle! I was looking at the cassette tape for Ode to Deodorant, and it has Phil's number on it. Could I still contact him on it, or is he guilty of false advertising after all these years? Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

The only thing Phil's guilty of is changing his phone number many years ago so, no, you wouldn't be able to contact him on the cassette's out of date info.November 2, 2009 - submitted by Priyam, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, If I were to start a band called HotAct...would Coldplay sue me? Thanks.

The Oracle replies:

They wouldn't sue but since you're here asking... why on earth would you pick such a dreadful name to represent you for all eternity? No offence but I'd go back to the drawing board and try to come up with something better.

I don't think you'd be taken seriously using that name either. However, if your band is a Coldplay tribute act, HotAct would be passable.

Official photos of Coldplay at Wembley stadium, London, UK (18th & 19th September 2009):

Photos by Penny Howle (courtesy of Coldplay.com)

Any way you look at it, Brian Eno is one of the preeminent producers and thinkers of our time. Indeed, the once prolific Eno's own output has slowed considerably since the 1970s and 80s, in part due to these extracurriculars and of course thanks to his ongoing work with U2 and Coldplay. He spoke to Pitchfork online, in which he mentions his work with Coldplay on several occasions...

Pitchfork: In some way you bore the brunt of similar suspicion and ire when you agreed to work with Coldplay. It even forced people to miss that you made a good record together.

Brian Eno: Well, again, there are ways of playing it safe, and for me playing it safe would be to-- since I don't really need the money-- to work with only sort of critically respectable, obscure, experimental indie bands. Everyone would say, oh, that's fine. I would be that kind of producer who does that kind of thing. But when I met Coldplay and got to know them, I so much liked those people and I so think that they really want to do something. Again, it's like U2 were. They are hungry to do something else. And they will. I'm sure they'll turn out to be a great band.

Pitchfork: When you have a band like U2 or Coldplay, in theory they can do whatever they want. They're popular, they're wealthy, that should afford one complete freedom. But there are imposed limitations of stardom.

Brian Eno: Yes, though funnily enough that doesn't produce such a strong effect as you would think in the studio. What I think produces a strong effect is the feeling of not wanting to disappoint people. Because one thing you are aware of when you're very popular is how much stock people put in your work. You know that there are 11-year-olds who are saving up to buy your record. [laughs] Though that's probably not true anymore.

Read the full interview courtesy of Pitchfork at the feature section of their website now.

Wembley Stadium has suffered another huge pre-tax loss of £31.1million and is not expected to break even until 2014, which means Coldplay will probably have played there on a second consecutive world tour before Wembley manages to pay off its rebuilding-cost debts.

According to the Daily Mail today, accounts released by the home of England football for the year to December 31, 2008 revealed the massive losses, which followed a £53.3m pre-tax loss in 2007. The 90,000-capacity ground, rebuilt for £800m and reopened in 2007, made a pre-tax operational profit of £5.9m in 2008.

But Wembley had to pay out £26.2m in interest on its £300m outstanding loans. It also wrote off another £10.8m in ‘signing fees’ adding up to a pre-tax loss of £31.1m. Stadium chiefs are optimistic of increased revenue this year, with 2.5million people flocking to the stadium since March for 34 events including football matches and concerts by Coldplay, U2, Take That, Oasis.

In the red: Wembley Stadium won't break even until 2014

Photos of Coldplay at Wembley stadium, London, UK (19th September 2009):

Pictures by busybeeburns

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 1000 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

October 30, 2009 - submitted by Lauren, United States of America

Q. Hey Oracle, I just saw the new pictures from the Great Penny Howle and I knew that she took a bunch of pictures of the boys back in the X&Y days, but was surprised to see pictures of hers from Wembley. So I was wondering, is she or was she sort of like the bands official photographer? Is she good friends with the band. All her stuff is brilliant by the way. She's one of my favorites!

The Oracle replies:

Penny was the much loved and respected official tour photographer during the X&Y tour. They invited her back to take shots at Wembley as they do have a great rapport together. Penny has a knack to get intimate shots without being intrusive. Given the close proximity to the band while she works, it's amazing that you almost don't notice her being there. I agree it was great to see her work again.

October 30, 2009 - submitted by Sarah, United States of America

Q. Hello Oracle! I was wondering in that picture of the Coldplay puppets in Corfu, what book are they reading? They seemed to be really into it. Thanks

The Oracle replies:

It was actually Quicksilver by Neal Stephenson.

Official photos of Coldplay at Wembley stadium, London, UK (18th & 19th September 2009):

Photos by Penny Howle (courtesy of Coldplay.com)

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 1000 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

October 29, 2009 - submitted by Alison, Australia

Q. Hi Oracle, I was lucky enough to be at the U2 show in Las Vegas recently, and to my great delight,at the end of Beautiful Day, Bono broke into a bit of "Lights will gu-u-u-u-uide you home...." , which was the highlight of the show for me :-) It didn't occur to me on the night, but I was wondering if Chris was at that show?

The Oracle replies:

Actually Alison, Chris was at that show yes.

October 29, 2009 - submitted by Helmut, Austria

Q. Dear Oracle, have you ever seen Chris playing on the drums? We only see him on piano or guitar. I really wonder if he?s able to play one or two of his own tracks on drums... Thank you so much!

The Oracle replies:

I have seen Chris play Will's drum kit during a Twisted Logic tour soundcheck a few years ago; Will was playing guitar and they were just jamming. During the demo sessions for A Rush of Blood... Chris recorded him playing most parts of some new song ideas during a Christmas break but those recordings were never in the public domain. It's not likely that we would see/hear him play drums in Coldplay because as you know, that position is filled.

October 29, 2009 - submitted by Ainsley, Norway

Q. I laughed so hard when I read the question that Joe from the US submitted. and your answer is false, it's BLACK BEARS. Just ask Jim Halpert, he agrees. Fact: Bears eat beets, bears beats battelstar galactica. peace out Mr.Elcaro, -Ains.

The Oracle replies:

Yeah I'm a fan so got The Office reference but thought the "correct" answer would really baffle people who'd never seen it. Any opportunity to big up the panda must be seized!

Pictures of Chris Martin at the 2009 Bridge School Benefit in Mountain View, CA (24th October 2009):

More pictures of the event can be found at life.com now.

Ocesa, the production company that have been tasked with managing coldplay's Mexican tour, have today via Twitter announced that a second Mexican date has been confirmed. According to their website, the second concert will be on the 7th March and the presale for the new date will be on November 4th and 5th. [thanks Pris]

In Colombia, tickets for the Bogata concert are no longer on sale on tuboleta.com. However, they've changed it to ticketexpress.com.co and tickets are still available online from worldwide locations. According to Lastfm, prices are: Platinum $305.000 $355.000 $395.000 (€106 €124 and €137); V.I.P. $172.000 $197.000 $232.000 (€60 €69 and €81); Preferencia $75.000 $98.000 $120.000 (€26 €34 and €42) [thanks Aleluvscp & Faust]

Meanwhile, over in Brazil, ticket prices have finally been announced for the two concerts - they range from 160-600 (Brazilian reais, approximately $90-345 US dollars, not including ticket fees.) The layouts for the concerts in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo can been seen after the jump. VIP areas in Rio de Janeiro hold 4000 people and in Sao Paulo there are 5000 available. The exclusive pre-sale for tickets to the Brazilian shows begins this Saturday, 31st October at midnight local time, for Citibank customers: . [thanks Cris_Santos]

Rio de Janeiro:

Sao Paulo:

Many thanks to vivalacoldplay.com for parts of the Brazilian update material.

The Sun today has published an article about festive songs, revealing that Coldplay frontman Chris Martin has a belter of a Christmas song which has been burning a hole in his MacBook for more than 12 months now. More discussion on this is at the Coldplay forum now.

Chris Martin was part of the last non-X Factor Christmas UK number one five years ago with the reworked Band Aid single, Band Aid 20. He's also the kind of bloke, The Sun continue, who is partial to a novelty reindeer jumper... so they're 'writing a letter to Santa' to ask if he can persuade Chris to release it.

Even bookies Paddy Power back Chris Martin. A spokesman said: "This year is probably the weakest list of contenders we've seen for the Xmas No1 in a long time. If anyone could write a classic Xmas song from the current crop, it's surely Chris Martin."

Photos of Chris Martin at the 2009 Bridge School Benefit in Mountain View, CA (25th October 2009):

Pictures by Caroline_Was_Here

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 1000 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

October 28, 2009 - submitted by Hannah, United States of America

Q. Oh, Magnificent Oracle, Have Roadie #42 and Anchorman been furloughed due to a lack of funds? I'll gladly pay for my copy of Leftrightleftrightleft if it means they can have their jobs back! Kisses to all! -H

The Oracle replies:

Well Roadie #42 took a little holiday but not a hiatus so he will be writing again from the Latin American tour. It's not usual for him to blog but maybe if there's anything to tell he'd let us all know. Anchorman is still posting news regularly...

October 28, 2009 - submitted by Brooke, United States of America

Q. Have the band ever performed Amsterdam live in Amsterdam?

The Oracle replies:

They most certainly have yes but not every time they perform live there; much to the disappointment of many fans so I hear!

October 28, 2009 - submitted by Joe, United States of America

Q. What kind of bear is best?

The Oracle replies:

Without a shadow of a doubt the Panda is best. I read this recently and it made me smile because it is so true... "I have been thinking about the TV man who has said pandas should die out. I think he is completely wrong. You can argue that the panda is the most brilliant species because it has evolved in such a way to make it look super-cute. This means that the most powerful species on the planet. Human beings automatically want to look after any panda the moment they see it. It is the most brilliant evolutionary strategy - way ahead of any other animal. It means that if you are a panda you just lie there and humans do everything for you". Polar bears are pretty cool too.

October 27, 2009 - submitted by Lisa, United Kingdom

Q. Hi Oracle, I try my best but I don't succeed.... An answer from you is what I need.... But if I never try I'll never know... 4th question but no answer yet so here's another try... Could you resolve a debate between me and my husband? We were at the LCCC gig on 12th Sept, I am sure the band watched Jay Z from the balcony/stand and I am even more convinced having seen the Coldplay puppet photo with the cricket bat, I took a photo on my phone but the zoom wasn't good enough for really clear images, my husband says I am wrong??? Many thanks in anticipation, Lisa

The Oracle replies:

Chris watched from the balcony that as you look at the stage was on the right hand side. The balconies had glass doors behind them from which Will peered to watch some of the White Lies slot.

October 27, 2009 - submitted by Allie, United States of America

Q. Oracle! Your name backwards is Elcaro! That sounds like the name of a mesmerizingly handsome Spanish Prince- although I can't say I picture you being a mesmerizingly handsome Spanish Prince- not to say that you are not mesmerizingly handsome, Spanish, or a prince... anyway, I was wondering if a majority of Coldplay songs come from the boys having jam sessions, or if some songs are born with a specific idea to go with lyrics- I guess what I'm asking is, does the music come first, or the lyrics, or a mixture of the two? Thanks a bundle, and thanks to the boys for 7/27/09!!

The Oracle replies:

It is a mixture of the two; the majority of songs start with Chris coming up with a song idea (whether lyrics or melody) and then the guys get creative together. If I had to say which was more prevalent it would be melody first. It's quite usual for Chris to feel like a melody just arrives with little effort. I know many musicians who experience the same. I am liking Elcaro... maybe El Elcaro!

Pictures of Chris Martin at the 2009 Bridge School Benefit in Mountain View, CA (24th October 2009):

More pictures of the event can be found at life.com now.

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 1000 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

October 26, 2009 - submitted by Louise, Denmark

Q. Who is J?

The Oracle replies:

There are 2 people whom Chris refers to as J. Jonny Buckland and Jay Z so it will be either of those depending on where you heard him say it...

October 26, 2009 - submitted by Will, Australia

Q. Hello Oracle, I was wondering did Coldplay ever make a song or sing lyrics along the lines of "There she goes, there she goes again, right back round the bend?" I heard it on a horse racing ad in Australia and it sounded like Coldplay. Thanks

The Oracle replies:

I would imagine the song you're looking for is There She Goes by The La's. The lyric is There she goes, there she goes again, racing through my brain...

October 26, 2009 - submitted by Evey, United States of America

Q. Hello Sir Oracle, What would be a good song to sing to myself on my birthday? Besides "Happy Birthday"... I find that song overused and dull.

The Oracle replies:

Although that's the traditional song sung on birthdays there are other tracks out there with that title that you could sing to yourself. Maybe try

Pictures of Chris Martin at the 2009 Bridge School Benefit in Mountain View, CA (24th October 2009):

More pictures of the event can be found at life.com now.

In the second of two consecutive appearances at the 2009 Bridge School Benefit in Mountain View, Chris Martin once again played alongside violinist Davide Rossi, with a slightly tweaked setlist at the Shoreline Amphitheater last night. This was the last remaining (advertised) Coldplay-related performance until next year's Latin America tour in February/March.

Wearing the same beanie hat and red t-shirt from the night before, Chris's setlist was: Dock of the Bay (shortened with new lyrics), Clocks, Lost?, My Love Will Not Let You Down (Bruce Springsteen cover), Yellow, Maple Leaf Rag (Scott Joplin cover), Viva la Vida and Earth Angel (The Penguins cover). There is lots more discussion on the second Chris Martin performance including fan reviews, photos and some new videos at the Coldplay forum here and here onwards. [thanks Caroline_Was_Here, SueDeNimes, Italian Plastic, Svenky, clisaj, Mimixxx, Jayzo, maria_shiver, ling333, polkahard, dry_pretzels, and all other contributors over the last two nights]

Hey, you guys I just got back and it was amazing! I took a ton of pics and got lost? and viva la vida recorded. I spotted Chris right when I got into my seat because he was watching Gavin Rossdale perform! He kept looking at me because I was wearing a Life in Technicolor Coldplay shirt! Chris was very charming and said he was wearing his beanie because he had a disastrous hair cut and he said balloon boy was under there and they had interviews to do haha. I got it recorded when he talked about how all parents have thought about putting their kids in a balloon. I have a picture of Gwen Stefani, Kingston (her son) and Chris all sitting together watching that is so cute! [thanks Caroline_Was_Here]

Despite a couple of flubs, Chris Martin from Coldplay sat behind a piano and knocked out what was arguably the finest 30 minutes of the night. Along with a joke about hiding the balloon boy in his cap and getting violinist Davide Rossi (who did the strings on Coldplay’s latest album) to impersonate a horse with his instrument, Martin delivered excellent versions of “Clocks,” “Lost!” (technically called “Lost?” when performed on solo piano), and, most notably, “Viva La Vida,” which swelled the way it was intended despite only having two instruments backing it up. [via: Rolling Stone]

Barring the odd choice in cover tune, Martin's solo set was also an eye-opener as he brought a new dimension to his songs without Coldplay's typical bombast surrounding him. He delivered intense, intimate versions of "Clocks," "Lost" and, with an accompanying violinist, "Viva La Vida." But it was his wobbly rendition of "Yellow" that made the spine tingle, particularly when Martin turned to the kids to deliver the final verse, "Look at the stars/ Look how they shine for you/ And everything you do." [via: sfgate.com]

New pictures of Chris Martin at the 2009 Bridge School Benefit in Mountain View, CA (25th October 2009):

Pictures by Caroline_Was_Here

Chris Martin once again played without Coldplay in the US last night, this time at previously announced 2009 Bridge School Benefit in Mountain View, CA. Alongside, was Davide Rossi, the violinist influential during the Viva era. Davide tweeted after the show, saying, "Me and Chris rocked the Bridge School... amazing experience and dulcis in fundo jamming at the end with Neil Young... what a night!"

Sporting a beanie hat and red t-shirt, and back up with violin from Davide Rossi, Chris played Clocks, Lost?, Yellow, My Love Will Not Let You Down (Bruce Springsteen cover), Scott Joplin's Maple Leaf Rag, Viva la Vida and Earth Angel (The Penguins cover). There is lots more discussion on this new Chris Martin performance including fan reviews, photos and some new videos at the Coldplay forum here onwards. [thanks SueDeNimes, Italian Plastic, Svenky, clisaj, Mimixxx, Jayzo, maria_shiver, ling333, polkahard, and all other contributors]

I was there tonight! Just got back not too long ago, actually. That setlist looks just about right. I was hoping he'd play for longer. He did some instrumental piece before Clocks, but I'm not quite sure what it was. It had tinges of Amazing Grace to it, but it was excellent...

I might be a little biased, but I think Chris was easily the best of the evening. He really filled the whole space with just him and his piano and Davide Rossi backing him up was just incredible--especially on Viva la Vida. He was one of the few performers who I think really took the acoustic bit to heart and it showed. Chris was his usual funny self, making fun of his own striped hat and saying he was dressed like a hobo. His microphone fell off the stand during the second chorus of VLV and he looked slightly terrified. The Springsteen cover was unbelievable (if extraordinarily obscure) and I am absolutely psyched to have gotten to hear Lost? live. Earth Angel was just ridiculous though, really brought the house down. A kind of surreal moment to have Chris Martin lead this acoustic singalong of Earth Angel.

In terms of the other performers tonight, Jimmy Buffett and Fleet Foxes were some of the other highlights. Monsters of Folk and Sheryl Crow were both quite good as well. No Doubt was underwhelming, but Gwen Stefani looked INCREDIBLE. Not a Wolfmother fan, but they were alright as well. Neil Young is just on another planet musically. Hugely enjoyable. I was psyched to see him. [thanks polkahard]

Coldplay's Chris Martin was in a particularly playful mood for his band-less set at the first of this weekend's two Bridge School Benefit Concerts on Saturday. Martin, dressed ultra casual in jeans, a T-shirt and black-and-white-striped stocking cap, said, "A lot of people are probably wondering, 'Why is that guy wearing such a stupid hat?' "It's proof that now matter how rich and famous you become, it doesn't matter: You still can't shave your own head. Especially when you've got two major concerts to do two days later."

He never did remove it, leaving fans to guess whether he was teasing them. His set started with an instrumental version of Hank Williams' "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry" that sounded as though it were born somewhere between the fun house and the madhouse. From there, he and his violinist pal Davide Rossi touched on Coldplay signature tunes including "Clocks," "Yellow" and "Viva La Vida" before wrapping up with a delightfully loopy sing-along of the Penguins' '50s doo-wop hit, "Earth Angel." Corny as it might sound, it was one of those uniquely touching moments that likely will be etched for years to come in the memories of those who were here. [via: http://latimesblogs.latimes.com]

The good times kept on rolling as Chris Martin took the stage and, taking his place at the piano, proceeded to knock out mesmerizing takes on the Coldplay hits “Yellow,” “Clocks” and “Viva la Vida.” Yet, he faltered as he approached the finish line, closing his set with a questionable cover of the doo-wop ditty “Earth Angel (Will You Be Mine).” [via: http://blogs.mercurynews.com]

In stepping away from Coldplay for the weekend, Martin managed to be inspiring and playful. He opened with an instrumental version of Hank Williams' "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry" born somewhere between the funhouse and the madhouse. From there he touched on Coldplay signature tunes including "Clocks," "Yellow" and "Viva La Vida," finishing with a delightfully loopy singalong of the Penguins' doo-wop hit "Earth Angel" that turned into one of those inexplicably touching moments that likely will be etched forever in the memory of those who were there. [further review via http://latimesblogs.latimes.com]

New pictures of Chris Martin at the 2009 Bridge School Benefit in Mountain View, CA (24th October 2009):

More pictures of the event can be found at Getty Images now.

Coldplaying Christmas 2009: Secret Santa - add your name to the list!

Coldplay are already planning to start recording demos for their fifth album, while they are on a temporary break, according to The Sun this weekend. The band are expected to release the album in late 2010. More discussion on the latest news on LP5 is at the Coldplay forum now.

Having just wrapped up their world tour (well for now - they'll head out to South America next month), Coldplay are eager to get back to work on the follow-up to 2008's 'Viva La Vida'. "They have got a huge reserve of ideas together during their time on the road and they want to get the demos down while they are fresh," a source close to Coldplay told The Sun. "They are already excited about the next project."

The Sun also focussed on Coldplay's new home, saying online about Viva: "The last one was written and put down at their London studio The Bakery. Now they have moved up the road to a posh new purpose built facility."

Chris Martin had said back in May that the band's next record will be a concept album revolving around a secret story, and that he wants follow-up to 'Viva La Vida' to have 'less fanfare', according to NME. The frontman revealed that the band want to take a break from touring to work on the follow-up to 'Viva La Vida', which he says will be more stripped-down than its predecessor. "We spend an awful lot of time creating," he told the Philadelphia Inquirer. "Maybe it's because we're about to turn 33, but I just feel hungry to write all the time. I think at the end of this tour, we may not tour for a while. We may put out a record without quite so much fanfare. I think the next one will be quite stripped-down and based upon this story idea which I can't talk about because it might be bad."

Meanwhile, prior to last year's Glasgow concert, when asked about Coldplay's plans, Guy Berryman said: "We're going to start work on the new record next year (2009)." As for when he expected anything to come out from this, he said: "When it's good, it could be a year, it could be two years. We'll just have to start work and see how it shapes up. There are a few ideas being thrown around but I can't tell you anything about it, not that it's secret...just because I don't know!"

Pictures of Coldplay at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Maryland Heights, MO (24th July 2009):

Pictures courtesy of rknphoto.com

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 1000 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

October 23, 2009 - submitted by Kimberly, United States of America

Q. So Oracle, I love listening to Absolute Radio and they are having this vote for the best song of the decade and currently McFly is in the lead, because somebody has been tweeting to vote for them so I thought we have to have a bigger audience then them, so maybe you can nudge or encourage people to vote for Coldplay? eh? :) thanks love!

The Oracle replies:

Ok, I guess as it's Friday it wouldn't hurt to use this platform to let people know the situation. If anyone does want to vote, head here and do so.

October 23, 2009 - submitted by David, United States of America

Q. My question is in line with the previous questions about the singles. I have been debating whether or not buy the singles vinyl collection, but I'm hesitant too because I'm afraid they will come out with a new set with the last two major album singles included. I hate it when stuff like that happens, it just happened with my new iMac... Thanks, David, Nashville, TN

The Oracle replies:

Yes that is annoying when such things happened. It did seem rather strange to me that the singles were taken from 1999-2006 rather than perhaps waiting for this year to mark a decade but anyway... it's highly unlikely to be honest. In ever changing times, most of the subsequent singles were released as download only. Although The Hardest Part was part of that box set but only released as a download it seems the collection was covering only the first three albums that Chris once referred to as a trilogy of work in their career.

Coldplaying Christmas 2009: Secret Santa - add your name to the list!

Official photos of Coldplay at Wembley stadium, London, UK (18th & 19th September 2009):

Photos by Penny Howle (courtesy of Coldplay.com)

A reminder via the official site that Chris Martin will be performing at Neil Young's annual Bridge School Benefit this weekend (Sat Oct 24th and Sun Oct 25th) at the Shoreline Amphitheater in San Francisco, CA.

The gigs will raise funds for the Bridge School, which works for the communicative and educational development of children with severe speech and physical impairments. The annual concerts are organised by Neil Young and his wife, Pegi, and have taken place since 1986 (with Young performing every year). Traditionally, acts play acoustically - and Chris will be performing alongside violinist Davide Rossi, who worked on the Viva La Vida album. Click here for more info on both the show and the Bridge School.

There is more discussion on the forthcoming Bridge School Benefit this weekend at the Coldplay forum.

Pictures of Chris Martin at the Hammerstein Ballroom, New York City (15th October 2009):

More pictures of the event can be found at life.com now.

Coldplaying Christmas 2009: Secret Santa - add your name to the list!

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 1000 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

October 22, 2009 - submitted by Joao, Portugal

Q. Dear Oracle, I'm about to spend all my savings on old Coldplay releases like Blue Room EP, Safety EP, and so on... I'm going to be broke, but happy. Should I really do this?

The Oracle replies:

In your shoes I would just buy The Blue Room E.P. It shouldn't be anywhere near as expensive as the Safety E.P (going for ?1000 plus). It features 2 of the exact recordings from Safety too. It is very hard to find a bona fide original copy of Safety so do be careful as you may be buying a fake. Other singles are fairly easy to find or you may get a good deal on the singles box set; they're vinyl only though.

October 22, 2009 - submitted by Victoria, United States of America

Q. What are the other nine classic album covers chosen for stamps?

The Oracle replies:

Here's information for the stamps that will be available next year. As well as A Rush of Blood there's:

The Division Bell by Pink Floyd; Parklife by Blur; Power, Corruption and Lies by New Order; Let It Bleed by The Rolling Stones; London Calling by The Clash; Tubular Bells by Mike Oldfield; Led Zeppelin IV by Led Zeppelin;

Screamadelica by Primal Scream; The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars by David Bowie.

October 21, 2009 - submitted by Laurie, Canada

Q. Hey Oracle, I was watching The Scientist from Glastonbury... what ever happened to all those cameras? Did any fans ever submit photos to the band? Wouldn't it be cool to see those pics? Laurie

The Oracle replies:

For anyone who doesn't know, the band threw disposable cameras into the crowd after taking a few shots themselves of the audience and backstage before the show. This was a regular occurrence; not just Glastonbury and to answer your question yes, a few photos did make it back via email. Some fans also posted their pics on websites but only a very few compared to the number of cameras that were given out.

October 21, 2009 - submitted by Enzo, Brazil

Q. Hi Oracle, are you familiar with Paramore? Because I recently listened to their new album and there is a song: The Only Exception. I think it is similar to the older Coldplay's songs. It's my opinion of course, others maybe won't find it similar. I also would like to ask you how close you are to Chris and the others?

The Oracle replies:

I am aware of Paramore and also the track you mention. As it starts with an acoustic guitar being strummed in a similar vein to Yellow I can see why you mention it. I think that's where the similarity ends if I'm honest.

Coldplaying Christmas 2009: Secret Santa - add your name to the list!

Official photos of Coldplay at Wembley stadium, London, UK (18th & 19th September 2009):

Photos by Penny Howle (courtesy of Coldplay.com)

The official site have announced a change to the on-sale date for tickets for next year's Coldplay show in Bogota, Colombia. This just in from Anchorman today:

Good morning. It's just been confirmed that tickets for Coldplay's show at Parque Simon Bolivar in Bogota, Colombia will now go on sale from tuboleta.com on Friday, October 30th (rather than Friday, October 23rd as previously announced). For the full list of Latin American shows and on sale dates, please click here.

As you will know by now, Coldplay recently announced a tour of Latin America for February/March 2010. The seven stadium shows will mark the end of the band's Viva La Vida world tour, which has so far seen them play 159 shows to 2.75 million fans across 25 countries. A reminder that the new dates are as follows...

FEBRUARY

26 - River Plate Stadium, Buenos Aires, Argentina [discussion]

28 - Apoteose Stadium, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil [discussion]

MARCH

2 - Morumbi Stadium, Sao Paulo, Brazil [discussion]

4 - Parque Simon Bolivar, Bogota, Colombia [discussion]

6 - Foro Sol, Mexico City, Mexico [discussion]

9 - Estadio Tres de Marzo, Guadalajara, Mexico [discussion]

11 - Estadio Universitario, Monterrey, Mexico [discussion]

New pictures of Coldplay at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Maryland Heights, MO (24th July 2009):

Pictures courtesy of rknphoto.com

White Lies have said supporting Kings of Leon on their recent North American tour was better than their past warm-up slots for Coldplay and Snow Patrol, reports DigitalSpy today. Bassist Charles Cave said the experience of playing with Kings of Leon had been “fantastic” and revealed both groups had grown close on tour.

"It's probably the most enjoyable support tour we've ever done, sorry (Coldplay frontman) Chris Martin, sorry Snow Patrol,” he told BBC 6 Music. "We just had a lot of downtime where we could actually spend some time hanging out. When you're touring America it's pretty hard to get planes back home every night so it means you're all in it together. There was a real family vibe about the whole thing."

White Lies had previously supported Coldplay on the UK leg of their 'Viva La Vida' jaunt.

Meanwhile, the London trio also rubbished reports that the members of Kings of Leon were struggling to get along with each other. Drummer Jack Lawrence-Brown said the four-piece were having “a really great time and they all seem to have become really comfortable with what they're doing”. It had been claimed that singer Caleb Followill and his bassist brother Jared had fallen out over writing credits on the band's next album.

More on this White LIes / Coldplay support slot news is at the Coldplay forum here onwards. [thanks mimixxx]

New pictures of Coldplay at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Maryland Heights, MO (24th July 2009):

Pictures courtesy of rknphoto.com

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 1000 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

October 20, 2009 - submitted by Rachael, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, I just finished watching VH1's Storytellers (2005) and noticed that Will was wearing a "44" shirt. Any sequential relation to Roadie #42?

The Oracle replies:

There's no connection whatsoever. If you think about it, it can't be sequential given that it happened 3 years before the appearance of Roadie #42...

October 20, 2009 - submitted by Carlos, Mexico

Q. Are the boys fans of snow patrol?

The Oracle replies:

Yes, which is why they invited Snow Patrol to open for them at some US shows earlier this year.

Coldplaying Christmas 2009: Secret Santa - add your name to the list!

Official photos of Coldplay at Wembley stadium, London, UK (18th & 19th September 2009):

Photos by Penny Howle (courtesy of Coldplay.com)

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 1000 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

October 19, 2009 - submitted by Sarah, United States of America

Q. Hello, Oracle, did you know about the freaky-obsessive-scary Church of Chris Martin? I don't know whether these people are not mentally stable, or they're making fun of Chris, or whatever, but it's creepy and weird. I was just wondering if Chris knows about it/what he thinks of it.

The Oracle replies:

It's weird because that website has been around a lot longer than the archive shows (2008). It's always used the photo of Chris that was once an NME cover looking pretty angelic, which is likely what inspired the site in the first place.

October 19, 2009 - submitted by Eva, Greece

Q. Dear Oracle, I know you've already answered a puppets-go-to-Greece question, but can you please tell us why underneath the photos it said: we will see you? Could it possibly mean that Coldplay are planning to do a show in Greece anytime in the future? Thank you so much for all of your answers, you're the best! PS. I understand you've already answered to Dimitra so answering mine would be a bit too much for greek queries ^_^

The Oracle replies:

The puppets were more saying "See you later" or "See you around". Therefore, no, there is no Greek show planned.

Coldplaying Christmas 2009: Secret Santa - add your name to the list!

Official photos of Coldplay at Wembley stadium, London, UK (18th & 19th September 2009):

Photos by Penny Howle (courtesy of Coldplay.com)

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 1000 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

October 16, 2009 - submitted by Alan, South Africa

Q. Hi Oracle, Had Phil had any previous experience in management? It seems quite fascinating that someone inexperienced could take the band so far. Was Phil just smart and talented enough to learn the ropes quickly? Thanks

The Oracle replies:

Phil had no previous experience of management or music business. Apart from being smart and talented Phil was never afraid to ask questions and therefore progressed at a fairly rapid rate with the band. He also took advice and always kept the band at the forefront of any decision.

October 16, 2009 - submitted by Dimitra, Greece

Q. Hello Oracle! How are you? I must say that I was very surprised to see the Coldplay-shaped puppets in Greece! I could say I'm shocked! Does it mean that Coldplay were here too? Thank you for your time! PS.Please answer this one!!!

The Oracle replies:

I'm fine thank you. Coldplay weren't in Corfu; just the puppets on holiday.

October 16, 2009 - submitted by Michelle, United States of America

Q. What was the Coldplay song in The Wild movie?

The Oracle replies:

That'd be Clocks.

Coldplaying Christmas 2009: Secret Santa - add your name to the list!

Chris Martin played without the rest of Coldplay last night at the Keep A Child Alive's 6th Annual Black Ball at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City. The event was hosted by hosted by Alicia Keys and Padma Lakshmi. Sporting a new haircut, white shirt with tie and waistcoat... and Adidas trainers, Chris played Clocks, Viva La Vida and If I Aint Got You (with Alicia Keys).

There is lots more discussion on this low-key Chris Martin performance (not even the official site announced it) including fan reviews, photos and some videos at the Coldplay forum here onwards [thanks SueDeNimes, Mimixxx & Marsu]

Remember how I said I wasn't going to make it yesterday. I ended up going there with my sister after we saw "A Steady Rain" (BTW, Daniel Craig and Hugh Jackman are very nice & hot in real life). We got to Hammerstein Ballroom around 10pm. We waited and waited and waited until 1am, it was friggin cold outside. No luck seeing Chris, we saw a lot of other celebrities though. Terence Howard gave us weird looks, he's a good looking man but no we were not there for him. At about 12am, music started playing. Alicia Keys played her song "No One," I think Chris joined her for the last "oh oh oh" chorus...

Then played one other song we couldn't make out. Then "Clocks" start playing, I am not sure if I heard a backing band just piped in backing music. It was nice to hear anything after waiting for so long, I did a little happy dance. Chris sounded good and didn't hear any big differences with the song other than Chris saying something at the end. We assume he was saying something about "saving the children." I think Chris maybe played "Trouble" but couldn't hear for sure. Then VLV came on. And for everyone wondering, Alicia Keys and backing instrumentals filled in for Will. She did a admirable job but she's no Will. And that was pretty much all the live music we heard for the night. For such a fancy pants party, some of the people were dressed so poorly. The person that top the worst dress for me was some lady wearing a neon pink spandex body suit and a dress made of chain or something that clink and clanked when she walked by. We could have snuck in if we got a off the rack evening dress from Macy's or H&M and put on some makeup.

The crowd was a mix of PR people, Europeans, beautiful people, and ridiculously rich people. We were waiting by the front door which happens to be the smoking area so no one really cared that we were standing there. There was only me, my sister, and a German tourist waiting to see David Bowie at the door. Though none of us achieved our objectives, it was still an interesting night to witness. We saw so many celebrities, though I wasn't overly excited about any of them: Al Roker, Terrence Howard, Geoffrey Wright, Padma Lakshimi, Robin Thicke & his wife, Paula Patton, Adrian Greiner, Samuel L Jackson, Rachel Hunter, Stephen Dorff, Gayle King, Richard Branson, and some others. A funny moment was when two Irish guys came up to us and asked if we wanted their autographs, they said they were in that Irish movie "The Wind that Breaks the Barley." They could've been, no idea. A lot of douchey looking people too, the people that usually go to the Meatpacking District. I would say a decent amount of people left before Alicia Keys started her set, though it seemed like the party was running long since it had started around 8pm. It stinks a little we didn't see Chris, I guess he and some of the other big stars left from the back. I would have loved to see him all dressed up. [thanks halokiti]

The evening also included a live auction with some amazing items. Terrence Howard kicked off the auction by engaging in a (playful) bidding war with Queen Latifah for a 7-night stay at the Caves in Negril, Jamaica. Valued at $9,150, he won it at $20,000. Also up for bid was a 7-night stay at Sir Richard Branson’s home on the British Virgin Island including two first class tickets, a team of 60 staff, business facilities, fully equipped gymnasium and all meals and drinks. Valued at $27,000, the Branson auction raised $440,000! Chris Martin won the bid at $200,000 for the Yamaha Grand Piano used by Alicia Key’s during her “As I Am” tour in 2008 and recently at her 2009 MTV Video Music Award Performance with Jay-Z. The night came to a close with Alicia Keys and Chris Martin’s performance, which got the crowd on its feet with “Viva La Vida.” [via http://faraitoday.com]

New pictures of Chris Martin at the Hammerstein Ballroom, New York City (15th October 2009):

More pictures of the event can be found at life.com now.

Coldplaying Christmas 2009: Secret Santa - add your name to the list!

UK hip-hop star Chipmunk has revealed that he would like to collaborate with Coldplay's Chris Martin, according to DigitalSpy today. The 'Oopsy Daisy' singer said that he is a big fan of Martin and described the indie band as "the greatest" in their field.

o would I like to work with in the future? I would like to work with Chris Martin. Yeah, yeah. I like Coldplay,"he told DS. "I just want to go out of the box. I want to work with people who are the greatest in whatever they did. I'm just preparing myself."

The singer, who releases his debut LP I Am Chipmunk today, also admitted that he is a fan of The X Factor. "Shows like X Factor, I think they're pretty cool man. Personally, I wouldn't go on a show like that because I've got to walk around Tottenham. But they can work for certain people," he said. "Especially all the acts that have come through this year - they're all cool. Alexandra Burke is heavy. JLS are heavy."

More on this story at the Coldplay forum here onwards [thanks mimixxx]

New pictures of Coldplay at Gorge Amphitheater, George, WA (11th July 2009):

Pictures by mrsgabrielgray @ Flickr

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 1000 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

October 15, 2009 - submitted by Carol, Argentina

Q. Wise Oracle, what will Roadie 42 bring to Argentina? He said: "Sorry Marguerite, I'll bring it to Argentina". I don't understand. Thank you!

The Oracle replies:

If you look at Anchorman's live photo blogs you will see pictures taken of various signs that are put up at venues. These vary but tend to show either directions (complete with arrows) to catering, dressing rooms and stage etc, or they let you know where you are. Marguerite is the Production Assistant on tour and those signs are created by her to aid the entire crew. Roadie #42 took one of the 'Everything this way' signs and that is why he promises to return it though I suspect he's joking as I'm sure Marguerite can rustle up another.

October 15, 2009 - submitted by Elyse, Canada

Q. Roadie 42 mentioned that a Mrs 42 was with him at the last show. Do the roadies bring their families along on tour?

The Oracle replies:

Just as we don't take our families to work, they don't either. However, given the amount of time they are away from home, they do occasionally meet up at one show or another. Mrs 42 went to the London show as it was a big finale in the UK.

October 15, 2009 - submitted by Dragoon, United States of America

Q. Uh.....i have a car stuck up my ass what do i do?

The Oracle replies:

Whatever you do, don't switch on the ignition. It's not a Dodge Ram is it? Ouch!

October 14, 2009 - submitted by Barborka, Slovakia

Q. Why isn't Guy twittering anymore? Tell him that I really enjoyed his messages and that I want him back :) And I think I'm speaking for every Coldplay fan.

The Oracle replies:

We all enjoyed the tweets from Guy but it was meant to be a snapshot into life on the road so was never intended to be a long term project.

October 14, 2009 - submitted by Mike, United Kingdom

Q. Could you let me know whether or not my uncle roomed with Chris Martin when attending Oxford university (his name was Steve *****) I don't know whether to believe him, or if he is just teasing me because of how much I like Coldplay. Bit of a strange question granted, but an answer would be cool.

The Oracle replies:

Well as Chris attended UCL in London it's not very likely. He might have got away with it had he said Phil Harvey as that's where he studied.

Coldplaying Christmas 2009: Secret Santa - add your name to the list!

Coldplay, Pink Floyd, Blur, The Clash and Led Zeppelin are among the acts set to feature on a new range of British Royal Mail stamps, NME can reveal today. A set of 10 stamps featuring classic British album sleeves will enter circulation on January 7 next year, according to stamp collecting website Norvic Philatelics.

Albums in the collection include 'The Division Bell' by Pink Floyd, 'Parklife', 'London Calling', 'Led Zeppelin IV', 'Power, Corruption & Lies' by New Order, Primal Scream's 'Screamadelica', 'Let It Bleed' by The Rolling Stones, Coldplay's 'A Rush Of Blood To The Head', 'The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars' by David Bowie and Mike Oldfield's 'Tubular Bells'. Royal Mail are said to have assembled a shortlist of classic albums, though initially some were deemed unusable due to the darkness of the image.

More on this royal news at the Coldplay forum here onwards. [thanks Lore]

New pictures of Coldplay at Gorge Amphitheater, George, WA (11th July 2009):

Pictures by mrsgabrielgray @ Flickr