WordPress Posts: Coldplay News

Paralympics Closing Ceremony preview: Coldplay rehearsals, Xylobands, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Paraorchestra and more...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Chris Martin has added to the speculation that Coldplay will be joined on stage by Rihanna and Jay-Z at the Paralympic closing ceremony on Sunday night (9th September). [Catch up on the latest from the event at the Coldplay Live forum here onwards now. Thanks to everyone who has contributed with tweets, photos, reviews, videos and comments!]

Chris told Radio 1's Greg James that the band have a 'couple of friends' joining them at the event, though went coy when quizzed on precisely who those friends may be. "We're in rehearsals in the biggest car park in the world where there's a fake Olympic stadium thing. I'm not sure what I can say. We're gonna play some of our songs, then we have a couple of friends coming out with us. There's lots of amazing dancers and acrobats," he told James during his Radio 1 show this afternoon (Sept 9). You can listen again to that interview at the Multimedia forum now [thanks Coldplaymom & Tash]

When James asked if the "couple of friends" were Rihanna and Jay-Z, Martin unhelpfully added: "This is like a police inquiry! I can't say much." But, according to a Sun newspaper source, Coldplay and Rihanna will come together inside the Olympic stadium to sing their collaboration 'Princess of China' as part of the show's earth, wind, water, fire and ice theme. The source suggests the collaborative performance will take place after the 'We Found Love' singer has performed a short set of her own. Chris Martin will then take to the stage to sing the duet at the ceremony, after which Coldplay will perform a set of their own. A source told the Daily Star newspaper: "All the Closing Ceremony details are top secret but Rihanna has already started rehearsing."

The ceremony will be shown live on Channel 4 in the UK, while the list of broadcasters worldwide is here (then check local listings for exact details). It begins at 7.30pm UK time - go to the world clock to find out what time that is where you are. The entire ceremony will also be streamed live worldwide at www.paralympic.org.

And also according to the Daily Mirror, Jay-Z will join Coldplay on stage, promising London 2012 chiefs an "incredible performance" which will wow the audience of one billion worldwide. News of the star’s appearance is almost certain to sell out the final few remaining tickets for the extravaganza this Sunday. A show source said: "Jay-Z and Chris Martin are close friends so he helped to get the rapper on board. They are putting together a spectacular set list – one likely to include a duet. It’s going to be one hell of a show and fans of both artists will be clamouring for tickets. The Paralympics has exceeded all expectation and, like the rest of the world, Jay-Z has been blown away by their bravery and athleticism. This will be a concert like no other and a fantastic end to what has been the most successful Paralympics ever."

As well as the bands, a new orchestra created by popular classical conductor Charles Hazlewood composed of 17 musicians with disabilities -including a one-handed pianist and a woman with such severe cerebral palsy that she requires 24-hour care – is preparing to play in the closing ceremony of the Paralympics. It is rumoured that they will perform the strings with Coldplay during tracks such as Paradise and Viva la Vida.

Its performance alongside Coldplay has been kept secret, but last Thursday the musicians were gathered at a church in north London for rehearsals.

And finally, don't forget that Coldplay's Xylobands will be used during their performance at the Paralympics closing ceremony on 9th September, it has been revealed in an online article interview with Xyloband inventor, Jason Regler. In an interview with Jason Regler, in which he is quoted as saying, "Coldplay liked my business idea and now I'm making millions", he confirms that Xylobands will be used at the Olympic Stadium in London where Coldplay will close out the Paralympic Games.

The article continues: 'A Coldplay fan who paid £2,000 to a charity so he and his son could meet singer Chris Martin at a gig came away with backing for his business venture. Now he has sold more than two million radio-controlled wristbands that light up in time to music. Jason Regler, 43, had the idea for Xylobands while watching the Glastonbury Festival on television in 2005. He says: "I was very depressed at the time. My business, RB Concepts, was not going well and I had been through a relationship breakdown. I thought it would be great if there was something else to bring everyone together."'

New photos of Coldplay rehearsing for the Paralympics Closing Ceremony in London (7th September ready for performance on 9th September 2012)

Photos courtesy of the Daily Mail online (click for more!)

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

7 Los Angeles, US @ Shrine Auditorium (Stand Up To Cancer) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

The new range of Coldplaying merchanise (unofficial of course to the official shop) has hit our stores, with our biggest range of goods so far. Prices are as low as they can be for a Cafepress shop so more people will be able to afford them. We don't take any profits for the sale of the merchandise as a result. Take a browse in one of the online stores nearest to you: UK | US | Canada | Australia | European (shipping is worldwide, but you can choose what currency to pay in) - simply alter the country dropdown menu at the top of the shop page. [thanks to TracieMorgan and zzz]

Coldplay win Best Rock Video for Paradise at the MTV Video Music Awards 2012

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Coldplay have in the last few hours won the Best Rock Video award (for Paradise) at the MTV Video Music Awards 2012. More feedback on this is at the Coldplay forum now. [thanks wabbit]

Here's what the MTV said about it this morning:

It took nine years. And learning how to ride a unicycle. And, oh yeah, writing a typically kick-ass tune and brainstorming a wacked-out video that is silly and sad and marvelous to look at. But Coldplay is finally a Video Music Awards champion again.

The British band took home the 2012 Moonman for Best Rock Video during a live-streamed ceremony, presented by MTV News' James Montgomery and MTV Buzzworthy's Tamar Anitai, in the midst of the main event at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on Thursday night (September 6). Chris Martin and his crew won for "Paradise," a stellar track off their 2011 album, Mylo Xyloto...

With the triumph, Coldplay bested the likes of the Black Keys (and their viral smash, "Lonely Boy"), Linkin Park's special effects-laden nod to some of Hollywood's geekiest blockbusters, "BURN IT DOWN," and first-time nominee Imagine Dragons' "It's Time."

"Paradise" features Martin, dressed in a plushy elephant costume, escaping the confines of a zoo, hitching a ride on an airplane, hopping aboard that unicycle and peddling furiously to find his fellow humanoid-elephant creatures in South Africa. Part travelogue, part childlike escapist fantasy, part mushy family-reunion saga, the video rises to become more than the sum of its jagged parts, not least because Martin's sonorous vocals have a way of twanging your heart strings.

Moreover, that voices makes you think, Bro, we're all just elephants trapped in our own cages and, seriously dude, if we could just run free, the ice caps would stop melting and no one would go hungry again. Just as important to the video's pop-art success, there's a witty undercurrent rippling through what could seem like, if you were describing the video to your buddy in a bar, a farcical concept: the elephant, stashed away on an airplane, reaches out with his truck to scoop up some spilled peanuts; later his trunk pokes out from a luggage trunk in which he's hiding.

The Best Rock Video win marks Coldplay's fifth Moonman and its first since "The Scientist" nabbed three trophies in 2003, including Breakthrough Video and Best Group Video. Since then, and until this year's show, the band had come up short a number of times at the VMAs, most recently in 2010 when their effort for "Strawberry Swing" lost out on a Breakthrough Video award to the Black Keys' "Tighten Up." It's hard to believe that one of the biggest bands on the planet hadn't won Best Rock Video until now. There Martin goes, unicycling into history.

Congratulations Coldplay!

New photos of Coldplay performing at Malieveld, The Hague, Netherlands(6th September 2012):

Photos courtesy of 3FM at Flickr (click for more!)

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

7 Los Angeles, US @ Shrine Auditorium (Stand Up To Cancer) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Paris review: Rihanna performs 'Princess Of China' & 'Umbrella' with Coldplay at Stade de France (2 September)

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Rihanna joined Coldplay for two songs during their live show at the Stade de France in Paris, France last night., writes the Gigwise in a media review of Coldplay's show at the Stade de France in Paris on Sunday night (2nd September). Catch up on the latest tweets, pictures, videos from these shows at the Coldplay Live forum here onwards now. Thanks to everyone who has contributed with tweets, photos, reviews, videos and comments! Read on for the rest of the Gigwise review article, as well as a fan review below...

Rihanna took to the stage with Coldplay last night (2nd September) for a live performance of their collaborative single 'Princess Of China'. The 'You Da One' star made a surprise appearance at the event as the band brought their 'Mylo Xyloto' world tour to the Stade De France in Paris. Dressed in a long red geisha-like robe, the Bajan star shared the stage with the group and could be seen putting her hands upon Chris Martin's face – echoing the intimae scenes from the official music video for the track. After the performance, Chris could be heard saying: "Thank you RiRi", as she made her way for a costume change and then joined the group to perform her smash hit 'Umbrella'.

Rihanna wore a black and white Aztec patterned figure hugging outfit for the tender and emotional version of her song with Chris on piano. You can watch Coldplay and Rihanna perform 'Umbrella' here. The performances are expected to be released on a live DVD of the show after the band confirmed they were filming at the show. Rihanna will also be joining Coldplay for a performance of 'Princess Of China' at the closing ceremony of the London 2012 Paralympics this month. You can watch Coldplay and Rihanna perform 'Princess Of China' here.

After the show, Rihanna took to her Twitter account to profess her love for the band. She simply tweeted: "Coldplay f**** rules!!!!"

However, before the show, she went to Twitter to complain about fans mobbing her at the station in France. The singer posted a photo of herself at London's St Pancras station, about to take a train to Paris. Her train departure time was also included in the post, marked on a station sign and visible to her 25 million Twitter followers. Fans arrived at the Gare du Nord station in Paris late on Saturday, waiting to greet the musician. Both the security team at the Eurostar station, and her own bodyguards struggled to protect Rihanna from the crush of people around her. The singer then sent three tweets, complete with swear words, complaining about the pushing of the crowd as she left the station. One tweet read: "I just had to fight my way out of a damn train station!!!"

In addition to the media reviews, a great article has been published by the HyperMusic blog. Read part of their review below, and click on their link for all their photos...

Passing by the Stade de France Stadium with their tour, Coldplay delivered a concert that will remain forever etched in the annals, magnificent from the beginning to the end! The band's performance was there but it is mostly the atmosphere that broke records. Besides, on Twitter Phil Harvey, the fifth member of the band raved: "Paris - Loudest sexiest crowd of the whole tour. You're going to look so beautiful in the film. PH ». In fact, last night's concert was filmed for the creation of a DVD of the Mylo Xyloto Tour. We will thus be able to relive this wonderful evening very soon! Parallel to this, a Multicam DVD project made by fans is being prepared, do not hesitate to participate by submitting videos. Have a look on the Facebook page created for the occasion!

While waiting for these DVDs, let's go back to this unforgettable evening with these few lines. Once again the opening act was Marina & The Diamonds. If you already have visited this blog, you probably know that this was not the first time I saw Marina. Her performance was a little bit different from those of Boston and Nice, including the presence of Hypocrates and Lies. Just after Roadie # 42 took the photos that will form the panoramic picture of the concert (each night a panorama of the public is made and posted on Coldplay's website) 99 Problems by Jay-Z has sounded in the Stade de France, full of people, heralding the arrival of the band on stage.

All lights Off, Chris, Jonny, Will and Guy arrived and the stadium was immediately illuminated by the glowing wristbands given to the public. For the occasion, 160,000 Xylobands were distributed which means exceptionally two wristbands per person! Jason Regler, the inventor of these little wonders has to be proud because the depiction was breathtaking!

From the beginning of the concert things accelerated. Hurts Like Heaven, In My Place, Lovers in Japan ... Between butterflies, confetti, balloons and Xylobands the beginning of the concert announced the tone! Just before Major Minus Chris Martin spoke in French to greet the audience « Nous sommes contents d’être ici avec vous, le meilleur public du monde » and then he continued in English « We’re gonna play the best fucking concert we’ve ever play in our lives… And I hope you can be the best audience in all time and have a great fucking time ». Some would say that he says the same thing every night but yesterday we could feel a hint of truth, and this was quickly confirmed. The atmosphere was amazing, everyone sang, jumped, clapped non-stop, it was nice to see! The biggest fans had doubts, the surprise yesterday was the exceptional presence of Rihanna who played Princess of China with the band. All dates together, it was the first time this happened. The atmosphere then reaches its climax, we barely could hear Rihanna sing so the audience was singing and screaming!

I'm not a big fan of Rihanna but I loved it. So much better than when the song is performed with her on the big screens ! She was humble and discreet, almost shy to be the center of attention. We had a double dose as they performed the song twice! After an intimate Up In Flames in the center of the stadium, the pace accelerated. First Don't Let It Break Your Heart and Viva La Vida. Coldplaycorner (the website of the French Coldplay fans) had planned a flashmob but in front of the general enthusiasm of the crowd for Viva La Vida, it could not be done. It's not a big deal, the main thing was to set fire to the stadium and that's what the audience did!

The Xylobands lighted up again on Charlie Brown and judging the reaction of the audience, this song is one of their favorites from Mylo Xyloto. Paradise also received a hero's welcome. But that night, I wonder what song did not triumph! As usual the band went to visit the spectators at the back of the stadium for Us Against The World and an acoustic version of Speed Of Sound. Back on the main stage they performed Clocks by making a nod to the new single of Muse, Madness. There are rumors about the presence of Matthew Bellamy and his wife, Kate Hudson in the Stade de France! As a fan of Muse (and Coldplay), I can only be delighted!

After a masterful Fix You, Rihanna came back to sing an acoutic version of Umbrella with the band, helped by the audience who sang the chorus. Then Chris Martin explained their participation in a U.S. TV show to fight against cancer with Paradise. So in addition to a double dose of Princess Of China, we had a double dose of Paradise, that night we really reached paradise! For the purposes of the TV show they chose to film Paradise in Paris, although it seems they have already attempted in Stockholm a few days ago.

The concert ended with Every Teardrop is A Waterfall which finished to set fire to the Stade de France! The stands have spent the concert standing, sign of the excellent atmosphere that evening. Chris Martin took a flag a fan was handing to him and wield it while the lyrics was: "So you can hurt, hurt me bad, but still I'll raise the flag."

Long and mutual thanks between the band and the audience ensued and the band left the Stade de France's stage. Thus ended an evening that many agree to say magnificent and unforgettable. I am pleased to have been a part it and really proud to be a Coldplayer. Throughout the evening Coldplay provided a liveblog on their Tumblr with photos, videos and animations.

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Stade de France, Paris, France (2nd September 2012):

Photos courtesy of HyperMusic blog (click for more!)

Thumb by StreetPress @ Flickr

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

7 Los Angeles, US @ Shrine Auditorium (Stand Up To Cancer) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Coldplay news round-up: Sunday Paris Tumblr blog, signed setlist, Rita Ora, The Vaccines, Make-A-Wish UK

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

A reminder that tonight (Sunday 2nd September) Coldplay will have a live Tumblr blog from 8.30pm Paris time (7.30pm London, 2.30pm NYC) as they play a sold out show to 80,000 people at the Stade de France. Will will of course have full discussion on the blog and the photos, gifs, videos, quotes and audio clips from the show, as it happens, at the Coldplay forum in the messageboard as well as all the Stade de France thread in the Coldplay Live forum where we will have all the photos, setlsit and reviews from tonight's show. We've never had a live blog via Tumblr before, so join us as we decipher the ensuing madness!

If you missed the latest Messenger in your inbox, you can win a setlist from Sunday night's Stade de France show, signed by the entire band, then simply email competitions@coldplay.com before 14 September. One entry per person, please.

In other news, Chris Martin helped Rita Ora choose tracks for her debut LP, Ora, according to various sources including Digital Spy this week. Chris apparently gave Ora some sage advice and complimented her live performances. He even invited the 'R.I.P' singer round to his house to make the final choices while she was supporting the band on their 'Mylo Xyloto' tour in June.

Speaking to the media, she said: "He went through my songs and told me what he liked. "After my final show supporting Coldplay, we all went around to his house and I played him my songs and he helped me pick the order for the album," she continued. "He said to think of the ones that mean the most to me," she said. "He said he loved the way I perform – that I have a lot of energy."

Rita Ora says that she asked Coldplay's Chris Martin for help when choosing the tracks to include on her debut UK number 1 album 'ORA'.

Meanwhile, also according to news sources in the last few days, The Vaccines have suggested Rihanna lacks artistic merit because she does not write her own songs, and they also suggested Coldplay would do anything to be the biggest band in the world. The Vaccines guitarist Freddie Cowan told NME: "Rihanna isn't an artist - she has 15 writers, 15 songwriters and 15 producers all fighting for space on her albums and she's the face of it. I have nothing against it, but I don't want to be associated with it," he added.

Coldplay are due to perform their collaboration with Rihanna, 'Princess of China', at the Paralympics closing ceremony later this month (9th September), and the guitarist suggested the song lacked "artistic merit" - although he admitted he had never heard it. "I've never heard that song, but it's Coldplay - they'll do whatever they can to be the biggest band on earth, to be bigger than U2," he said. "They do it really well and they've never put out a bad album so hats off to them," he continued. "I have nothing against those collaborations because I don't feel you can judge people, but I don't think I'll ever be involved in something like that. It needs artistic merit," he said.

Above: Freddie Cowan. [Coincidentally, The Vaccines are set to release their new album 'Come of Age' on 3 September. Maybe this is their way of generating a bit of interest.]

Finally, a teenage girl was granted the wish of a lifetime by Make-A-Wish UK recently – she met Coldplay. 18-year-old Amber suffers from Crohn’s Disease, and said she wanted to meet the band because "…their music helped me get through a lot of questionable and hard times and inspired my artwork. When I listen to their albums my emotions, thoughts and worries escape, helping me keep a positive outlook on life."

From Make-A-Wish.org.uk: "Amber’s Dad died when she was nine and, not surprisingly, she found it very difficult to deal with. In March 2011, she started feeling very sick and lost a lot of weight. She went to her GP who said her Haemoglobin levels were very low and that she needed to go to hospital for a blood transfusion. One day she was in the car with her Mum when Coldplay's 'The Scientist' came on. The lyrics hypnotised her and she felt an immediate connection with the band because their words explained how she felt. Amber told us, "I want to meet Chris, John, Guy and Will to say thank you – if it wasn’t for them I don’t think I would be the person I am today. I have a passion for what they do; they’re amazing and even though they might think that what they do and who they are have no effect on people’s lives, they are wrong because they affected my life in a positive way and I am grateful to them for this.'

"During the wish Coldplay gave Amber a bag of goodies and Chris dedicated a song to Amber (‘Fix You’). Afterwards, Amber told us: 'Meeting Coldplay was more than I imagined. They were so funny and down-to-earth and it felt like I was meeting up with close friends. ’Thank you’ doesn’t expresses how thankful and grateful I am towards Make-A-Wish for making my wish come true'."

Coldplay Grants Wish To Sick Teen, Amber

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Olympic Stadium, Stockholm, Sweden (30 August 2012):

Photos courtesy of Aftonbladet.se

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

7 Los Angeles, US @ Shrine Auditorium (Stand Up To Cancer) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Paralympics news round-up: Rihanna set to duet with Coldplay at closing ceremony; Viva la Vida simultaneous UK performance

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Further to our earlier news that Xylobands will form part of Coldplay's closing set at the Paralympic Games at London's Olympic Stadium on September 9th, it is now known that Rihanna is set to duet with Coldplay during Princess Of China. Rihanna will perform a couple of her own songs before joining the band on stage, according to various media sources this weekend. [You can join the discussion on Coldplay @ the Paralympics closing ceremony at the Coldplay Live forum now].

Coldplay rejected a slot at the Olympic closing ceremony to perform at the Paralympics instead. Media sources said: "All the closing ceremony details are top secret but Rihanna has already started rehearsing. As soon as Coldplay signed up she was with them on stage."

The source continued: "The closing ceremony is basically a glorified Coldplay concert. They will hardly be off stage. They were originally approached to do the main Olympics but turned it down for the Paralympics. They may only be getting paid a £1 to perform but they will make a fortune in royalties as their music flies up the charts afterwards."

To honour the occasion the band will also change the lyrics of hit single Paradise and change them to 'Paralympics'. Details of the show are a closely guarded secret but the theme is thought to focus on the elements - earth, wind, water, fire and ice. Unlike the Olympics show, just a few major acts will perform and they will not all be British. As the London Olympics focused on British music, it appears the Paralympics will be focused on popular music. Sharing the moment with the masses, people from around the world watch the two ceremonies, just like as though it were the Olympics. Featuring music, reflection and an opportunity to learn more about the host city, the large production has thousands of volunteers that come together.

Meanwhile, it has been announced this morning that hundreds of musicians across the UK will perform their own renditions of Coldplay's Viva La Vida to mark the end of the Paralympic Games. Viva La Vida will be played simultaneously at outdoor concerts across the UK in a Bandstand Marathon ahead of the Paralympic closing ceremony, and performers will be encouraged to play their own unique take on the song on September 9, as part of the finale to the London 2012 festival.

Hundreds of outdoor community concerts will be staged for the event, as the song is performed at 2pm on the final day of the Games. Organisers said the Bandstand Marathon will present a "unique portrait of the UK's diverse musical tastes and styles in 2012".

Chris Martin said: "It's a great honour for us to be part of the celebrations for the Paralympic Games and it should be a great moment when the bandstands of Great Britain strike up in unison."

Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: "Millions of people across the capital have already enjoyed an astonishing variety of music, drama, and spectacle from around the world. The Bandstand Marathon renditions of Coldplay's instantly-recognisable mega hit Viva la Vida will be fittingly upbeat coda to the London 2012 celebrations. We want as many Londoners as possible to take part and after the Games are over I hope many more will be encouraged to bring the sound of beautiful music to their local communities. Long live life indeed!"

The Bandstand Marathon will include a performance from a 91-year-old singer in Bellfield Park, Inverness, while London's Regent's Park will celebrate traditional and contemporary Jewish music. An Elvis impersonator will perform in Victoria Park, Barry, South Wales, and visitors to Broomfield Park, Palmers Green, north London, can expect the Afro-Caribbean beats of The Harambe Drummers.

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul, MN (10 August 2012):

Photos courtesy of the Star Tribune

Thumb by Jonathan Corbett @ Flickr

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

7 Los Angeles, US @ Shrine Auditorium (Stand Up To Cancer) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Coldplay's forthcoming shows in Denmark and Netherlands to be broadcast on radio/online

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

We'll get at least two more Coldplay bootlegs in the not-too-distant future with the news that the shows at Parken Stadium in Copenhagen, Denmark (28th August - next Tuesday!) and at Malieveld, The Hague, Netherlands (6th September) will be aired live on Danish P3 and Dutch 3FM radio stations respectively. Keep an eye on the threads in the next few days for listen live links and further information. If we get news on any further European show broadcasts we will update this news article. [thanks Blue Nails, Tash, nancyk58 & Phoebeo]

Speaking on the forthcoming broadcast in Denmark next Tuesday, the translated press release said: On Tuesday at 20.00 (8pm) the Danish radio station is going to warm up to one of this year's most anticipated concert experiences: Coldplay at Parken. As the only radio station, Danish P3 is going to broadcast the entire concert LIVE from Parken in Copenhagen so that the unlucky ones who wanted tickets for this concert without succeeding in getting the tickets - will be able to sing along from the sofa instead.

Signe Vadgaard who is hosting the programme ’Smag på P3’ (Taste P3), will be the guide in Parken for the radio listeners until the band enters the stage at about 21.30 (9:30 pm local time / central European time) and the music takes over...

"I expect very much from this concert / I am looking very much forward to this concert. But before it begins, I will warm up the listeners with i.a. music, interviews with fans and lots of high spirit from the Parken. And I promise to try hard to find Chris Martin, before he enters the stage at Parken. I am sure that the concert will be spectacular," says Signe Vadgaard from P3. She also looks forward to finding out if it works with the special, music-controlled bracelets that light up in synchronity with the music and that have been produced for the audience as requested by the band.

"And I expect the listeners and myself to have a gigantic musical party with one of the world's greatest bands," says the P3 host.

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul, MN (10 August 2012):

Photos courtesy of the Star Tribune

Thumb by Jonathan Corbett @ Flickr

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

7 Los Angeles, US @ Shrine Auditorium (Stand Up To Cancer) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Xylobands news round-up: Paralympics closing ceremony, Jason Regler interview, Tramlines festival

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Coldplay's Xylobands will be used during their performance at the Paralympics closing ceremony on 9th September, it has been revealed in an online article interview with Xyloband inventor, Jason Regler.

After rumours spread that they would be playing the Olympics closing ceremony last week, Coldplay themselves again confirmed via Twitter they will be present for the Paralympics ceremony on September 9th – reiterating a previous announcement made in May. "For those asking, Coldplay were never due to play the Olympics Closing Ceremony," the tweet reads. "They play the Paralympics Closing Ceremony on 9 Sept."

Meanwhile, in the interview with Jason Regler, in which he is quoted as saying, "Coldplay liked my business idea and now I'm making millions", he confirms that Xylobands will be used at the Olympic Stadium in London where Coldplay will close out the Paralympic Games. The article continues: 'A Coldplay fan who paid £2,000 to a charity so he and his son could meet singer Chris Martin at a gig came away with backing for his business venture. Now he has sold more than two million radio-controlled wristbands that light up in time to music. Jason Regler, 43, had the idea for Xylobands while watching the Glastonbury Festival on television in 2005. He says: "I was very depressed at the time. My business, RB Concepts, was not going well and I had been through a relationship breakdown. I thought it would be great if there was something else to bring everyone together."'

RB Concepts, based in Honiton, Devon, sold technology for toys, but he says it was struggling after a company went bankrupt and defaulted on a £150,000 payment. It was five years after having the wristbands idea that Jason had the chance to pitch it to Coldplay. He says: "Two days after meeting them I got an email from their creative guy saying, 'You know that break you wanted, we are about to give it to you.' Now turnover is into the multi-millions, 100 per cent up on last year. It rescued us."

Recent reports suggest the success of Team GB at the London Olympics has led to surge of interest in the 2012 Paralympic Games, which is now set to be a complete sell-out for the first time in its 52-year history. Organisers have revealed 2.2million tickets have been sold – a figure which will beat the previous best total attendance set at the Beijing Games in 2008 by around 400,000 sales.

As well as at Coldplay concerts, Xylobands have been used at sports and corporate events. The Xylobands were used to create a light show at this year's Tramlines festival. The electronic wristbands were given out to the 8,000-strong crowd during the final performances of headliners Reverend and the Makers and DJs True Tigers. Jason Regler, the inventor of Xylobands, said: "It was amazing to see how well the bands worked in an outdoor venue and how they enhanced the festival experience. We were thrilled to be a part of Nokia's lightshow, particularly at a great free festival like Tramlines."

True Tiger DJs said: ''We're really excited about the Nokia light show, it's all pretty cool, and it's gonna be cool to see what it looks like, especially when you're looking out into the crowd - whenever you get that kind of moment with lighters or phones it's really cool. We're in an era of DJs doing big shows now with big stage and light production so its cool to be involved in something like this which is really out there.''

Coldplay again confirm Paralympics closing ceremony performance via Twitter

Jason Regler, left, the inventor of the Xylobands

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul, MN (10 August 2012):

Photos courtesy of Mix 108

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Coldplay news round-up: Frank Ocean pulls out, Chris Martin 'tests songs on kids', Viva la Vida for NBA 2K13

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Frank Ocean admitted he felt like an "asshole" for suddenly dropping out of a string of 10 opening dates for Coldplay and a string of European festival dates over the weekend, but the Best New Artist VMA-nominated singer said he was forced to make some hard choices about his schedule in the upcoming months, various sources are reporting this week, including MTV news.

"Let me start by saying I feel like an a--hole right now, but a tough decision had to be made in regard to my schedule over the next months and the casualties of that decision include my appearances at upcoming festivals in Europe and my opening slot on the European leg of the Coldplay world tour," Ocean said in a statement. "Sorry as fuck, I'll be back if you'll have me."

Ocean didn't elaborate on what conflicts caused the sudden action, which includes canceled performances at the Flow Festival in Finland, Pukkelpop in Belgium, Britain's V Festival and the Rock En Seine festival in Paris and the Bestival on England's Isle of Wight in September.

He was slated to play the Way Out Festival on Saturday, a day after he cut short an appearance at Norway's Oye Festival after just four songs, citing vocal problems, according to the Hollywood Reporter. He was also scheduled to fill a 10-city opening slot on Coldplay's European stadium outing, including gigs in Copenhagen, Stockholm, Cologne, Paris, Munich and Warsaw. Ocean also pulled out of an August 1 show in Detroit citing illness, but put on a crowd-pleasing performance at the Lollapalooza festival just two days later.

Since Frank Ocean's omission, the official site announced that Charli XCX would now be opening on Coldplay's European tour shows, apart from Paris on 2 Sept. Marina and the Diamonds remains on the bill for all of the dates, as previously announced.

Meanwhile, Chris Martin has revealed that he trials Coldplay's new work on his children, according to various sources including The Sun and Gigwise this week.

Martin admitted that around the breakfast table, he plays the band’s new songs to observe his two children’s reactions.

The Sun reported: '"Kids are very honest - If they start singing a song it’s because they like it. It’s a great gauge," Chris admitted. His children, 8-year-old Apple and 6-year-old Moses, keep his feet on the ground. He admitted that after the band’s massive stadium shows, his children bring him back to reality. "When we played Wembley Stadium I was like ‘Wow we are now big rock stars’, but next morning the kids were saying, ‘get me some pancakes’," Martin says, giving an example of his children keeping him in touch with reality. It just shows even stars like Chris Martin need to be reminded about their off-stage roles, in his case his duty as a parent.'

Finally, Jay-Z has been put in control of picking the music which will feature on the NBA 2K13 console game, selecting many of his own songs and Watch The Throne tracks in the process, as well a Coldplay track, Gigwise are also reporting this week.

The first-time father's choice of songs for the soundtrack is certainly varied. Of course there are songs by his friends and collaborators -- he chose "Amazing" by Kanye West, and Coldplay's "Viva La Vida" - Chris Martin has been a good friend of the rapper for almost a decade -- but there are also songs by artists many people might not have expected. Among them are Mobb Deep and Nas, whom the rapper had well-publicized feuds with in the early 2000s, U2, Daft Punk, and Santigold, to name a few. The game hits shelves in October.

Jason Argent of 2K Sports, the company behind NBA 2K13, explained what it's like working with Jay-Z to Billboard: "Jay is completely obsessed with authenticity. So right off the bat, he said 'Look, I love this franchise and I love this game, but if you want me to be involved, I need to be truly involved. I want to actually help make this game."

Adding: "We wanted him to truly be involved from a behind-the-scenes production standpoint. With his involvement within the league, he brought such a level of understanding to what we were trying to accomplish. I think the final product will reflect that level of excitement that he had."

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul, MN (10 August 2012):

Photos courtesy of Mix 108

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Coldplay's Roadie #42 - Blog #180 (catching up on New Jersey)

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Check out coldplay.com for a new blog entry: #42 recounts his experiences at the New Jersey shows

Discuss this blog entry in the Coldplay forum here onwards [thanks Tash]

For touring folks, New York is a great place to spend time. Everything you could possibly want is within walking distance or a short cab ride from the hotel. This, of course, can play havoc with your cashflow, but hey - that’s what per diems are for…

For the band, it’s almost another hometown run. They are all staying away from the hotel with families for the duration. This makes the New York (or more accurately New Jersey) shows also somewhat like hometown gigs. The backstage is buzzing with friends and family and the guestlist meanwhile, is just buzzing...

Not buzzing at the first New Jersey show was my phone. Quite often venues can be in remote enough areas to have patchy reception - or maybe it’s being inside a concrete box? Maybe it’s the huge concentration of folks in one place, who all want to take photos and post them to Facebook as soon as possible?

Whatever the cause, the text message saying that the plan has changed and we’re doing a runner doesn’t reach me during the show. Normally, I’m out the back door before Every Teardrop has finished - in the belief that we’re sticking around, I decide to get out and take some photos during the bits I normally miss.

Suddenly, Production Co-ordinator Nicole is waving frantically at me and miming “runner”. Bollocks. The tune reaches Will’s drum outro and I’m ramming my laptop in the rucksack and heading for the vans. Almost as soon as we emerge from the underground ramp, everyone’s phones start vibrating en masse as the entire evening’s communications hit them all at once.

The runner is headed to the aftershow in the city. I’m undecided. I’m still keeping UK hours, so I’ve been up since 7am. There’s also a soundcheck scheduled that requires me to be able to function as close to professionally as I’m able. I make it three minutes into the party and bail. There’s always tomorrow night.

I wake to find a message sent at gone 4am that soundcheck is off. Clearly it’s been a good one…

Both New Jersey shows are rowdy and celebratory. I have a guest at the second, who informs me that his 16-year-old daughter has accompanied him and has proclaimed it the “best experience of her life”.

You do sometimes forget that that’s what’s going on out there - and it’s always good to be reminded!

The second night’s aftershow is predictably somewhat more subdued and sedate than the first. I stay for a couple glasses of red and as folks start to head off, I jump in a van with the ‘early one’ posse. We have two days off in town coming up. What was I saying about disappearing per diem? Must *not* go looking at camera stuff at B&H - no no no…

R42

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

East Rutherford review: Coldplay bathes Izod Center in sound and color (3-4 August)

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Does Coldplay have a sense of humor? If Chris Martin is a cutup, then maybe the flashing remote-controlled bracelets that his band distributed to concertgoers at Izod Center tonight will go off at odd hours, writes the The Star-Ledger in a review of Coldplay's two shows at the Izod Center in East Rutherford, NJ this weekend (3-4 August). Catch up on the latest tweets, pictures, videos from these shows at the Coldplay Live forum here (3rd - Friday) and here (4th - Saturday) onwards now. Thanks to everyone who has contributed with tweets, photos, reviews, videos and comments! Read on for the rest of the Star-Ledger review article below...

You'll be lying in bed at 4:00 in the morning, trying to get "Viva La Vida" out of your head (unsuccessfully, of course), and the bracelet will start blinking. Maybe it'll start to smoke. Maybe it will play rhymes by Martin's pal Jay-Z at asphalt-rumbling volume.

No chance, right? It's just a plastic souvenir of a memorable concert. Coldplay does have a sense of humor, but these guys aren't practical jokers. These four polite and grateful rockers don't want to perturb anybody. They're a big, warm bear hug of a band. They mean for you to be happy...

If you went to the Meadowlands show, chances are, you were. The singalongs at the Coldplay show rivaled those at Springsteen's Izod concert in volume and ecstatic intensity. A Coldplay concert is a friction-free zone; the band's songs go down as easy as a milkshake, and Martin is a gracious, friendly host. But what was really impressive about the first night of the band's two-concert stand at the arena was how convincingly and skillfully these musicians rocked — especially drummer Will Champion, who drove the whole show with absolute authority and no small amount of creativity. Punk rock it wasn't: There was not an ounce of danger in the arena, and Coldplay surely did not mean there to be. But there was abandon, and giddiness, and conviction, and top volume put to the service of big sentiments. If you believe in a version of rock that values comfort over confrontation, and seeks not to unnerve or push listeners but to fortify them, Coldplay might be the band for you.

Then there were the visuals: blasts of confetti, swirls of light on circular video screens, lasers sweeping the floor of the arena, and the electronic bracelets that seemed to realize Adam Young's dream of ten thousand fireflies. Coldplay sold seats in the entire arena, which meant tiers of flashing armbands in every direction. The intent was to create something immersive — to make fans part of the light show, and to erase a bit of the barrier between performers and listeners. It also made the Coldplay concert look and feel like something out of the Electric Daisy Carnival. On "Mylo Xyloto," the latest Coldplay album, the band surprised some fans by borrowing heavily (and enjoyably) from contemporary pop and dance music. The Mylo Xyloto tour suggests that this pop-rock band has learned more from EDM artists than how to incorporate machine beats into its power ballads. [Article ends]

Download this show! Multimedia update: 2012-08-03 Coldplay @ Izod Center, East Rutherford, NJ [AUDIO FLAC, Mediafire ~578Mb]

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Palace of Auburn Hills, Detroit, MI (1st August 2012):

Photos courtesy of Palace of Auburn Hills Facebook page

Thumb by deadbolt photos @ Flickr

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Reports: Universal may sell Coldplay label to push through EMI merger

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Universal Music is in talks to sell off most of Parlophone, the home of acts including Coldplay, Kylie Minogue and Tinie Tempah, in order to allay concerns the European regulator has over its £1.2bn bid for EMI, reports the Guardian and other sources this week. The potential sell-off of Parlophone, which would not include the Beatles' catalogue, has been submitted by the world's biggest music company as part of a package of remedies to the European Commission.

It is understood that BMG, the music publishing joint venture between Bertelsmann and KKR which missed buying EMI's publishing division, has held talks with Universal to potentially acquire Parlophone. One source with knowledge of the situation said that any potential sale of Parlophone, one of EMI's most famous labels, would include Universal "cherry picking" key artists to keep such as the Beatles and, potentially, Coldplay.

Founded over 100 years ago, Parlophone was a leading jazz label in the 1920s. Sir George Martin joined as assistant label manager in the 50s, signing Cilla Black, Peter Sellers – and the Beatles. Other artists added to the label roster through the years are Duran Duran, Pet Shop Boys, Blur and Lily Allen. The European Commission, which rejected Universal's first offer of label sell-offs for not addressing competition concerns, will put Universal's sweetened offer to the music industry over the course of next week to gauge reponse.

Universal originally offered to sell off labels including Virgin, which has attracted interest from Sir Richard Branson, Sanctuary, Mute - home to Nick Cave and Moby, and Co-Op. The European Commission rejected the package, which sources say was worth about €250m, as not addressing issues over the combined group's dominance in the CD and digital music market. "The first offer just wasn't good enough and they have bitten the bullet," said one source. "It looks like they are offering a package of about €400m, half of EMI Europe at €800m, which would see them give up roughly 5% market share in Europe".

If this is the case it would bring the combined group under 40% of the European market, the limit that has concerned regulators. "Universal Music Group has submitted a package of remedies to the European Commission relating to its proposed acquisition of EMI Recorded Music," said a spokesman for Universal. "We believe the package fully addresses the Commission's concerns and follows our constructive discussions with regulators, independent labels and competitors. We look forward to working further with the Commission and are confident of receiving clearance."

If the sale of Parlophone is accepted by the European Commission then Universal would not have to sell off some of the other labels it had considered, such as Virgin and Chrysalis. Joaquin Almunia, the EU's competition commissioner, has described the talks as "tough".

Universal has submitted a list of 21 potential buyers for its assets, according to a report published by Billboard. The music giant is under immense pressure as it has guaranteed to pay EMI's owner Citibank the entire £1.2bn by the middle of September regardless of whether the deal goes through. Universal, which is owned by Vivendi, has been given until the end of November to push the deal through. [Article ends]

New photos of Coldplay performing at TD Garden, Boston, MA (29-30 July 2012):

Photos courtesy of TD Garden @ Facebook (click for more!)

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Coldplay news round-up: Hurts Like Heaven single review, Harry Styles, GROW campaign (Oxfam)

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

The first review of Coldplay's Hurts Like Heaven song, widely anticipated to become the fifth (radio) single, has been written by Diffuser.fm. The artwork for the song has already been found online. Read on for the Diffuser single review...

Five singles into their latest album, ‘Mylo Xyloto,’ and Coldplay are still going strong. In an era when many bands focus on a few standout tracks to base an album on and then surround them with filler, with ‘Hurts Like Heaven’ (which is soon to be released to radio), the British boys prove ‘Xylo’ is deep enough to warrant the string of singles.

Starting with nearly a minute wash of delay-drenched guitars and dreamy synths, ‘Heaven’ seamlessly transforms into a pop ditty, with Will Champion’s steady beat providing the backbone for Jonny Buckland’s tone-bending guitars and Guy Berryman’s melodic bass. Somehow the three of them manage to channel the intro’s atmospherics into a melodic, upbeat groove that recalls My Bloody Valentine‘s dreampop and the Jesus and Mary Chain’s lighter, catchier fare...

“Oh you, use your heart as a weapon / And it hurts like heaven,” Chris Martin sings over all the prettiness. We’re not sure if he purposefully invokes the imagery of ‘Just Like Heaven,’ but purposefully or not, the Cure classic certainly comes to mind. Either way, it’s a fitting reference, as this is as close as Coldplay come to sounding like a ray of sunshine shining on their eternally bummed British brethren. [review ends]

Meanwhile, One Direction star Harry Styles has named Chris Martin as his "biggest idol", saying that says he admires Chris's voice and songwriting ability, according to various sources, including Capital FM this week. "My biggest idol has always been Chris Martin from Coldplay," Harry revealed in an interview for Tumblr's Storyboard project this week. "He is such a great singer, performer and writer. If I could be as talented as any musician, it would be him all day long."

Recently, Chris Martin sang a line of One Direction’s hit ‘What Makes You Beautiful’ onstage in Tampa (June 28), during Coldplay’s ‘Yellow’. Chris sang ‘That’s what makes you beautiful’ as an acknowledgement of the fact that Harry Styles was at the concert.

Signing up to the GROW campaign at Coldplay gigs, to find out how you can support small-scale farmers on 1.5 billion farms around the world is just one way you can help mend the food system, writes the Oxfam On Tour blog this week.

Over the next few months they're going to share with you some easy ways to feed your family and help to mend the broken food system; together it's called the GROW Method. There may be broken links in the food chain but your buying power makes you a mighty and strong one. And they think everyone demands better. Check out their slideshow to find out more!

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Verizon Center, Washington, DC (8-9 July 2012):

Photos courtesy of The Concert Man (click for more!)

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Wolf Gang Q&A - lead singer Max McEllingott talks about touring with Coldplay

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Thanks to Coldplayer Nattatouille, Coldplaying have been lucky enough to get Max McEllingott (the lead singer - pictured) of Coldplay support act, Wolf Gang (check out their website!), to agree to an exclusive Q&A with the site. The questions were sent in over the last few days and the answers have come back. Here they are - enjoy!

How did you come up with the name Wolf Gang? Would you change it if you could?

My sister came up with the name actually, and for a while it caused a bit of confusion with Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All fans which made me sometimes think of changing it even though we were the first to use it, but that problem has sort of died out since and I'm happy that we are rolling with it. It wouldn't feel right changing it.

Who/what inspires you to make music?

I've always been inspired by my parents record collection, that mixture of songs from the 70's and 80's that had real melody,verve and personality to it. I grew up in a musical family as well so there was inspiration and encouragement all around me.

Where has been your favourite place to play so far (both as a support and as your own headliner)?

Well we've just come off the Coldplay tour and that is definitely the best and most fun support we've done, in terms of headline shows, we had an amazing one in Vienna last December which was brilliant, the crowd has so much enthusiasm it made the whole night so much fun.

Is it really true that ‘Suego Faults’ came to you in a dream? Have you been anywhere else in your dreams?

Yes it is, and yes I do, as I'm sure most people do, surely everyone is well travelled when it comes to the realm of dreams?!

What is your favourite and least favourite track on ‘Suego Faults’?

I don't have favourites actually, retrospectively I think that there are powerful moments and weak moments in each song.

Do you have any pre/post gig rituals?

We do a vocal warm up about 40 minutes before we go on, then we just sort of dance around and get ourselves geared up.

Can you give us any updates on how the second album is coming along? Will this tour with Coldplay influence you in any way?

Yeh the writing is going well, we've got a good few songs under our belt and it doesn't seem to be slowing down so that's encouraging. We watched Coldplay's set almost every night and it was interesting to start paying more attention to how the songs are structured and propped up instrumentally, who knows maybe some of what we learned will subconsciously drift into our own songwriting...

Do you plan on touring the USA extensively to support your second album (if so, can you come to Pawtucket, RI)?

Actually we are still playing to support the first record as releases in Britain and the US are delayed. The radio stations out there are still playing singles from the first album so we'll be headed back out in October to do our own headline tour of the east and west coasts, and the bulk of our set will be primarily derived from Suego Faults.

In a typically difficult American market to crack, what are the advantages and disadvantages of opening for a massively popular act in front of an audience largely unfamiliar with your work? How do you approach this differently to your festival sets (such as your captivating set at Coachella) or your own shows in terms of audience engagement and setlist choices?

Opening for Coldplay has been massively advantageous in spreading our music in the US, I think radio stations used it as a reason to play our music, Coldplay fans who weren't aware of us left the show and got in touch on twitter and Facebook, our album downloads spiked during the tour. I don't want to jinx anything but hopefully our shows where we supported them will be quite busy because of that exposure the band allowed us, so I couldn't stress enough how positive for us that tour was! In terms of our setlist, we kept it short and punchy like the Coachella show, I think when you're playing to a largely unfamiliar audience it's better to leave them wanting more rather than to overexpose yourself.

When you moved from London to Berlin, did it change your attitude and approach to music?

It didn't really change my attitude, it was quite simply a pragmatic move to go somewhere where I could be in an empty room with a piano every day and not have distractions around me! What was great though was the band came and joined me, and we really hit upon a sound that we have since followed up on, it did seem to set a precedent for the songwriting for the second album out there…

How is it you came to open for Coldplay?

I think it came through Guy Berryman the bass player who had heard and liked the album.

What is your favourite Coldplay song? And why did you choose to cover ‘Life is for Living’ before going on tour with them?

There are so many songs I love it's hard to choose a favourite but 'Amsterdam' does something special for me. Covering 'Life Is For Living' was just a spur of the moment thing, it's a nice and short number too...

What is your favourite memory of the tour so far?

There are so many, playing the first night was really adrenaline filled, meeting the band was awesome, the long drives through beautiful stretches of land, meeting our fans out there, there were loads of really nice moments.

How has watching Coldplay perform changed the way you view your own shows? Do you want to get to stadium tours one day?

Oh absolutely! It's very inspirational watching the performance. As a frontman it's great to watch Chris, he moves around so much and genuinely seems to be really enjoying himself up there, which is so infectious.

What is it like to tour with Coldplay? Would you do it again?

We would hands down love to do it again some time, the whole experience was amazing, and their crew were the nicest people to work with ever.

How did you prepare yourself for a tour like this?

We didn't smoke and we didn't drink…

Do you spend any time with the members of the band? Do you find that strange?

We bumped into them a few times backstage which was nice, it was great to be able to thank them in person for having us. They all seem really chilled out and down to earth. But it was nice to shake the hand of someone who you genuinely really respect.

What are your plans once you have finished touring with Coldplay?

We're back to writing more songs, we have a couple of European dates, then the American tour in October! [Article ends]

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Verizon Center, Washington, DC (8-9 July 2012):

Photos by SBrooks540

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Blur leads protest over Parlophone label sale, future Coldplay releases withheld?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Artists threaten to withhold future releases if planned sell-off of Parlophone goes ahead, Coldplay's position not clear

Some of Britain's top-selling musicians may withhold their future albums in protest against being treated as "assets" in the forced sale of their label, The Independent has disclosed this week. However, the article stopped short of reporting on Coldplay's position on the matter.

Blur are leading a revolt against the sell-off of Parlophone, part of the EMI group, which has been the launchpad for dozens of artists from The Beatles to Coldplay. Universal Music, the French-owned firm, has been ordered to shed Parlophone as part of its £1.2bn takeover of EMI. The move has unsettled artists on Parlophone's roster, which also includes Kylie Minogue and Tinie Tempah. The stars, many of whom are worth millions of pounds, say they object to being treated as pawns in a corporate takeover.

Blur have joined forces with their label-mates to collectively lobby potential bidders for the company, calling on them to place the interests of artists first. Stars not happy with the new owners could withhold future releases, effectively going on "strike". Dave Rowntree, drummer with Blur, told The Independent: "Artists are the only people currently being left out of the conversation, which is unfortunate. If the staff at the label are unhappy with the new arrangements they are free to leave, but the artists are not."

Rowntree is backing negotiations through the Featured Artists Coalition (FAC), a pop stars "trade union", supported by Lily Allen and Radiohead. "The FAC was formed by musicians who were fed up with the industry taking decisions without considering the impact it would have on those who actually make the music," he said. "The FAC and the Music Managers Forum are looking to engage with Parlophone to see how we can help."

The drummer, 48, now a qualified solicitor, said he once advised the head of EMI how to prevent illegal file-sharing, which has decimated music sales, from destroying the company's revenues. "Years later, while the label I grew up working with is being broken up and flogged off, Apple have made a gazillion dollars using the business model I explained. I'm left in the completely unsatisfying position of being able to say, 'I told you so'."

The great music sell-off includes artists earning "steady revenues" such as Pink Floyd, Cliff Richard, Tina Turner, Kate Bush, David Bowie, Duran Duran and Kraftwerk. Universal gets to keep The Beatles catalogue, which is excluded from the Parlophone sale, as well as Katy Perry, Robbie Williams and The Beach Boys. Possible bidders for EMI's assets include Warner Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment and BMG Rights Management, a joint venture between a private equity group and the German media conglomerate Bertelsmann.

Jon Webster, chief executive of the Music Managers Forum, which represents managers and artists, said: "We are holding discussions with potential bidders. We want them to understand that the future of the record business is about genuine partnership with artists and that works best when their views are involved and they are not just traded as assets. But financiers often just say 'what are you talking about?' Artists have withheld releases to get better terms if they are powerful enough. They can sit down with the new owners and get a solution. It's the smaller acts that suffer most because they have no bargaining power."

Sir George Martin, the legendary producer who became Parlophone manager in 1955 and gave The Beatles their big break in 1962, is also believed to have concerns over the future of the label.

More new photos of Coldplay performing at the AWD Arena, Hannover, Germany (22 September 2012):Photos courtesy of haz.de (click for more!)

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

7 Los Angeles, US @ Shrine Auditorium (Stand Up To Cancer) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Coldplay announce six-part 'Mylo Xyloto' comic series - we gauge fans' reactions

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

This week at Comic-Con in San Diego, Coldplay will debut a new six-part comic series that tells the story behind the last album, Mylo Xyloto, as announced by the official site this week. It was rumoured on the messageboard back on 30th June that this would happen, and now it has finally been confirmed.

It has captured the imagination of the media too. One example out of 64 sources (and counting) so far was from Rolling Stone, who reported: The series will be published by Matt Groening's Bongo Comics Group and was written by the band and Academy Award-nominated writer and director Mark Osborne (Kung Fu Panda). According to a note on the band's website, Coldplay and Osborne conceived a character three years back named Mylo Xyloto – "'xylo' as in xylophone, 'to' as in toe," reads the post – and constructed the story from there. "Gradually Mylo's story and universe came together, and this ended up providing the backdrop for the album and tour," added the band. Osborne, in a statement, called the project "the latest expression of a music-driven feature animated film that the band and I started developing several years ago."

He also elaborated on the comic's narrative, saying: "It is the story of Mylo Xyloto, a young Silencer on the front lines of a war against sound and color in the world of Silencia. Mylo discovers that the enemy he's been trained to hate his whole life might not be the enemy after all. There will hopefully be many, many connections for people who have heard the album."

To mark the release of the first issue, Osborne and the production team behind the comic will appear at a Comic-Con panel on July 13th to discuss the project. Following the first issue's release, the following five parts will be published monthly beginning February 2013.

The official press release read: "1:00-2:00 Bongo: Mylo Zyloto— Every album begins with the germ of an idea, every song tells a story, and now it is finally revealed that there is a secret narrative behind Coldplay's newest hit album and its enigmatic title Mylo Xyloto. Three years ago, frontman Chris Martin teamed up with Mark Osborne (Kung Fu Panda, The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie, and the upcoming The Little Prince) to develop the epic story that has gone on to inspire such chart-toppers as "Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall," "Paradise," and "Princess of China." Join the creative team behind the new comic miniseries Mylo Xyloto -- Alejandro Fuentes, Steve Hamaker, and Dylan Haggerty -- and prepare to experience the sights and sounds of Coldplay in a whole new way. Room 23ABC."

New Coldplayer comments on the Coldplay comic-con series:

Really looking forward to that and excited, I'm just a little worried about the "depth" of the things. On MX, we had lyrics like "every teardrop is a waterfall", and they mention in this announcement a world without music and colors and a "War of Colours", that means it could be either totally cool or a bit shallow. But I trust them enough to make that an awesome comic! BTW, does anyone remember a David Rossi interview with a fan site earlier last year where he said this would be their "St. Peppers"-record. Maybe a hint to visual things like "Yellow Submarine"? [thanks dreamorlife]

Wow, I can't believe its actually happening!!!! I think I'm going to like it, at least I hope I do. If Chris was so heavily involved, then it has to be pretty cool. Its almost like we get an insight into Chris's mind and all the stories he comes up with... sounds epic!!!! Well, anyway I hope its a success!!! [thanks paradise117]

Collaboration with osbourne explains why Chris was talking about Kung Fu Panda in several interviews a while ago... Also explains the lyric... 'try to catch a cannonball' [thanks Jack1505]

Not every song is featured in the Mylo Xyloto story, and some have been going on for a very long time (for example, Car Kids was first mentioned in early 2009). I am ok with the news regarding comic, but if we don't get any new songs, I don't think I'll be overjoyed! [thanks Miha]

I actually think this just paves the way for new songs. I definitely think we will get at least 1 or 2 from the comics. It would be cool if they put out a new song for each issue, but I don't count on that. [thanks R's Symphony]

If there's a HLH video coinciding with the release of the issues, it makes me think that HLH will be released in February 2013. It's very late, but Strawberry Swing was released over a year after VLV, so... The website saying it'll be released on August 6th is a radio, right ? It could just mean they think it'll be release soon so they want to start airing it...like everyone did with PoC. Idk. edit: or, if HLH really is released next month or quite soon, then I guess the video will be, as some have pointed out, some kind of a trailer for the comic book? Actually, I think UATW is from the boy's perspective (but it's the same idea: he's in love with a girl from the world of colour, and so they're enemies). I think the whole story is from the boy's perspective, except HLH and Paradise. The downside of all this, it's that now they'll give a whole interpretation of the album, and it kinda goes against what they usually say, which is that they don't really explain their songs to leave it to the listener's imagination.[thanks Coeurli]

This comic thingy should have been released before the album in my opinion. 'Cause then the whole thing would have worked for me. It would have seemed like this was in the long term plan all along. Now, it just seems like the boys are doing this without no real plan in mind. Like they are doing it just for the shock factor. Or maybe it's just me. [thanks shred]

This is gonna be an exciting weekend then! Hopefully we'll get to see this video, not just the comic con goers. There will hopefully be many, many connections for them, including lots we didn't even intend I'm sure." I think there are plenty of ways to tell a story, so I don't think this will invalidate any of the stories we have created in our own heads. Like you said, Chris mentioned many times he wants everyone to use there own unique imagination with the album. [thanks Cheese Nip 2]

GOD, EVERYTHING will be explained on this comics! AIKO, LELA, REX, MAJOR MINUS! Of course Coldplay have done a HUGE job with this album, no one can deny it. And of course it's the most interesting album I've ever seen! I am no lucky guy if it doesn't sell in comic stores here in Brazil. If I buy something from outside my country, when it arrives, I need to pay 80% of the value of the product in taxation (Yes, be happy you don't live in Brazil). When I bought my Pop-Up edition, I asked for a friend that was going to England for vacations to receive it for me and bring it when he returned to Brazil. Luckly, the customs didn't stop him in the airport, so the pop-up came freely in his handbag[thanks rafaelchampion]

Here is a link to a website that will tell you where the nearest comic shop is to where you live. Comic shops, like any store, only order what they think they are going to sell and these orders are placed months in advance. So if you want the Mylo Xyloto comic it wouldn't hurt to call the store closest to you and tell them you are interested so they can order the proper amount to meet demand. It is set up to search North America but there is also a link on the page that will allow you to search outside of North America. Again... I can't stress this enough... many shops only order what is on thier "pull list" meaning the comics that thier regualr customers request and then a few extra issues for new customers who might come in by chance. It's a rough business and they can not afford to have extra product on the shelves that won't sell. If you want to make sure you get your copy make sure you call ahead! [thanks oldmuckers]

Interesting idea. Never been into comics though. There's now four new things I am anticipating... - HLH Music Video (I think it will be the best MV of this era, though Paradise is it's only competition in that regard); MX Comic (could be nice, hope its not cheesy or lame); ColdplayFilm (I really don't think this will be a standard concert DVD...personally, I think that it will be an animated film containing the characters from the comics, and it will cut in and out of clips from the live concert shows); New songs...(I just hope this is true, would only make sense to release a song with each new comic release). [thanks The Red Army]

So the story is not about graffiti? That's a downer, I had a perfect vision of the album story and now it turns out to be a super hero (or super villain) in a fantasy world and not a boy and a girl being oppressed and meeting each other through graffiti. Well, it might not be bad, but the real story comes a little too late as I've lived since October with a different story in my head. Those to stories will conflict each other, that's for sure. [thanks hente44]

Though it was stated that the comic is up for personal interpretation as well and does not specifically set what MX is about, I feel like many of us have already created solid ideas about lyrics and stuff that might be a little thrown off or maybe even ruined by connections in the comic. But if the comic came first, it would of been cool to read it then listen to the album and connect the two together instead of the other way around. I don't know, my fear is some music might lose its meaning for me personally because it isn't exactly as deep as I thought, it is just a part of a plot about two lovebirds. But, again, I guess the way the reader interpretates the story is the only thing that matters. [thanks erynf_1996]

The Mylo Xyloto comic character

Image of the comic book series - issue 1

Just some of the sources reporting this news in the last 24 hours! (1/2)

Just some of the sources reporting this news in the last 24 hours! (2/2)

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Coldplay round-up: "Band announcement" expected, #42cam, One Direction, Emeli Sande and more...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Coldplay say their children stop fame getting the better of them, writes the writes the Mirror this weekend, who also state that Chris said the band "plan to make an announcement about their future in the next few days - but it is unlikely to be a split." [Discussion in the Coldplay forum now). They continue... Dad-of-two Chris said: "We played Wembley Stadium and I was like, ‘Wow, we are big rock stars’. But at six o’clock in the morning the kids were like, ‘Get me some pancakes. And I was like, ‘Oh, am I a rock star?’ But that’s what hopefully keeps your music real."

Currently on tour in the US, Chris added: "Just at the point where you would have got really big egos, we all have these little people who we are all responsible for and they keep us focused on what is really important in life." Guitarist Jonny Buckland added: "If you ever feel like you are big-headed as a rock star, you come back and your children and family have a very keen knack for making you feel very small again." [Article Ends]

Meanwhile, ContactMusic are reporting on the story of Roadie #42 appealing to fans for help after a special camera fell off the stage during a concert in Florida on Thursday (28th June). Chris Martin played to more than 20,000 fans with photographic equipment mounted on his guitar during the concert at the Tampa Bay Times Forum (also known as the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa).

ContactMusic continued: However, the band's photographer, known as Roadie #42 on the Coldplay website, took to Twitter.com after the show to reveal the camera had been lost, and asked for help locating it. He tweeted, "Hey Tampa folks. If you found my camera after it flew off Chris's guitar, can you shout up? Thx (thanks)!" Within a few hours, a pair of honest concert-goers handed in the gadget, and a spokesperson for Coldplay tweeted, "Just to confirm: #42 cam has been found! Thanks so much to Julia and Brianna!" [Article ends]

Also at Tampa, The Sun report on Chris Martin's tribute to One Direction at the show on Thursday. The Sun continued: The Coldplay frontman likes to sing parts of other artists’ songs during live shows – though usually because someone has died. He covered Beastie Boys’ Fight For Your Right last month after Adam Yauch’s death and also sang Amy Winehouse’s Rehab when she passed away.

This time Chris dropped in a line from the chorus of One Direction’s What Makes You Beautiful when they performed Yellow in Florida. The singer knew Harry Styles was in the crowd watching when he yelled “That’s what makes you beautiful” just before the track kicked in. Harry was raving about the gig on Twitter, writing: "Icon. Coldplay were in another class tonight!" [Article ends]

Next news - Coldplay have taught Emeli Sande to be disciplined on stage and the 'Heaven' hitmaker says supporting the band on tour has shaped her own performances, that is according to STV in Scotland this week. Emeli Sande - who supported Coldplay on their 'Mylo Xyloto' European tour in 2011 - has revealed watching the British band in action has shaped her own performances as well as teaching her to be considerate behind the scenes. Speaking exclusively to BANG Showbiz at the O2 Silver Clef Awards in London on 29th June - where she picked up the American Express Innovation award - Emeli said: ''When you watch them onstage it's so energetic, but there's still an intimacy to it. So I guess I've learned that from them, and there's such discipline going on with them behind the scenes. ''Everything is very considered and everybody is very welcome and those are things I'll take with me for the rest of my career.''

Coldplay were so impressed with the 24-year-old singer-songwriter that they invited her back to join them on their US tour in July and August. BRIT Critics' Choice Award winner Emeli added: ''I've had a few conversations with Chris [Martin] and I see them when they're coming on and I'm going off, but the main thing I've learned from them is seeing them onstage and how it all operates.''

Emeli has also admitted that there was a lot of pressure on her to perform with the seven-time Grammy Award winning group, and the nerves took over at first. ''The first show we did was in Glasgow, so that was a home crowd. It's difficult because you think, 'This is a crowd which came for Coldplay, how will they react to my music?' 'But after the first gig, it was just fantastic! Then we had a great time around Europe and we were invited back to perform with them in America.'' [Article ends]

And finally - Maroon 5's Adam Levine wants to see Chris Martin on The Voice UK, according to Capital FM today (Saturday). They report saying: "The 'Payphone' star admits he would love to see the 'Paradise' singer on the music reality series. Maroon 5 front man has confessed that he would love to see Coldplay's Chris Martin on The Voice UK. The 'Moves Like Jagger' man told The Sun newspaper that he is a big fan of Sir Tom Jones and thinks Chris would be good for the next series of the show. "As for the UK Voice, well, I love Tom Jones," he admitted. "I think it was a really good choice. I'd like to see someone like Chris Martin on there next, although I don't know if he would do it." [Article ends]

New photos of Coldplay performing at the American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX (22nd June 2012):

Photos courtesy of Tampa Bay Online (click for more!)

Thumb by 88mileswest @ Flickr

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Houston review 1: Coldplay have their act down to a science at the Toyota Center (25 June)

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

At the risk of obliterating the last remnants of my punk-rock cred, I guess I never really understood all the Coldplay hate, writes the Houston Press Blog website this morning, in an early review article of Coldplay's Houston show last night (Monday 25th June) at the Toyota Center. Catch up on the latest tweets, pictures, videos from the shows at the Coldplay Live forum here (25th - Monday) and here (26th - Tuesday - tonight!) now. Read on to see what the Houston Press thought of Coldplay's first show at the Toyota Center...

Chris Martin's Ernest Lee Sincere routine puts a lot of people off, sure, and some (like my neighbor) bailed on them when they started dressing like Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, but while some of their music might be reminiscent of those songs you can't place as you're wandering through the outlet mall, Coldplay has some legitimately good tunes. So what if Martin married Gwyneth Paltrow, the heart wants what it wants. Right, Ric Ocasek?

Rocks Off has to admit, Coldplay puts on a hell of a show. It was obvious even as the last chords of Robyn's opening set were fading out and the coverall-clad roadies started setting up that we were in for an audio/visual feast, and they didn't disappoint. At heart, we suspect Martin and company know it would be hard to hold a modern crowd's attention through portions of their catalog, so they charge out of the gate and grab you by the throat from the outset.

Oh, does your favorite band drench the crowd in confetti during the closing number? Coldplay does it the second song, bitches (and then again two songs later). Does your favorite band sell glow sticks to wave at random intervals? Coldplay gives away free bracelets that light up by remote control! The coolness of seeing this multicolor display last night was only slightly tempered by the nagging suspicion that the goddamn thing is now broadcasting images of my bedroom back to some giant marketing conglomerate.

Or maybe the bracelet thing was for the band's own amusement. We didn't major in psychology. Are all of these -- confetti ("In My Place"), giant balloons ("The Scientist"), and singalongs ("Yellow," "Violet Hill") -- not-so-cheap parlor tricks designed to distract an audience from occasionally over-precious songwriting? Perhaps, but they worked. Rocks Off won't claim the roars of approval were louder than Sunday night's One Direction show (though probably less high-pitched), but by the sound of it, whatever Martin and the boys were selling, most of us were buying it.

It would be easy to mistake Coldplay for "Chris Martin and Friends," but the band's sound owes as much to guitarist (and co-founding member) Jonny Buckland as Martin's falsetto. His distinctive riffs were in evidence in everything from "God Put A Smile Upon Your Face" to "Speed of Sound" (one of only two X&Y tracks that made the Mylo Xyloto/Viva La Vida-heavy set list). The rhythm section of drummer Will Champion and bassist Guy Berryman have also been around since the band's late-'90s formative years. No band defections in a 16-year history are fairly unusual, but evident in their onstage cohesiveness.

For most of the show, Martin roamed a Day-Glo set that resembled something out of To Live and Die in L.A. (with a lighting rig a friend of mine described as "Pink Floyd, circa 1972"). He cuts an athletic if goofy figure: capering jerkily, arms outstretched, occasionally collapsing to the ground (overcome by the adulation, no doubt). And the crowd-pleasing didn't stop with confetti cannons (luckily for Toyota Center, Houston has an ample supply of leaf blowers).

The band set up at the end of the stage runway that extended out to section E for a three-song set consisting of "Princess of China" (with video accompaniment by Rihanna), "Up in Flames," and "Warning Sign." They returned to the main area for four more songs (including "Paradise," another audience participation number), then popped up in section 112 at the back of the arena to do a quick two-fer of "Us Against the World" and "Speed of Sound."

The crowd, already eating out of Martin's hand, were firmly in his grip for the encore of "Clocks," "Fix You," and "Every Teardrop is a Waterfall" (including intro track "M.M.I.X."). All told, not quite an hour and 45 minutes of show, but nobody was complaining. Martin and company were locked in from the get-go and clearly have got their act down to a science, you'll excuse the pun. They say one of the hallmarks of a true Svengali is leaving those in thrall unaware and/or uncaring that they've ever been manipulated. Well played, Chris Martin. Well played.

Personal Bias: Honestly disappointed at the underrepresentation of X&Y. Not that we'd ever admit to liking X&Y. Heavens, no.

The Crowd: Step right up, step right up: fun for the while family.

Overheard In The Crowd: "Fuck Dallas!", in response to Martin asking us to "make some Houston noise"

Random Notebook Dump: "Is there any job less stressful than floor security at a Coldplay concert?"

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Toyota Center, Houston, TX (25th June 2012):

Photos courtesy of CultureMap (click for more!) [thanks Clifford]

Thumb by: Zero Serenity @ Flickr

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Mylo Xylotour: Houston preview, Oxfam hit the road again with Coldplay

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Coldplay head to Dallas to restart the Mylo Xylotour in the US, and while we've not found any Dallas previews online (yet), we have found one for the Houston shows on 25th and 26th June, entitled, "Making child’s play of your Coldplay date," which is a throw away article exploring the art of turning your man into a Coldplay fan. As well as this, Oxfam have also blogged their latest diary entry as they follow Coldplay around North America. Read on for both articles...

Your Houston News: With British too-old-to-be-a-boy-band Coldplay in town, ladies, I thought it would be fun to help you ensnare your date-to-be between some especially soft rock and hard place. I know, you’re thinking such meditative, romantic fare strays pretty far from the standard guy-rock bombast of, say, AC/DC, Metallica or any number of those spandex-clad bands from the 80s that never seem to really go away.

Well, that’s probably true. Still, this outing offers some interesting options as far as strategy goes. First of all, you have the element of surprise working in your favor. After all, when is the last time you – with a straight face, anyway – asked him anything as instantly confounding as, “Hey, Sweetie, do you think we could go see a rock band at the Toyota Center this week?”

If that doesn’t cause your beau to stop dead in his tracks and turn his baseball cap around backward, I don’t know what will. You now have his attention – undividedly. Next comes the tricky part. He’s going to ask what band is playing. Unfortunately, since Coldplay has sold about a billion albums and pops up on pretty much all radio stations, television shows and public address systems on a regular basis, he already knows what they sound like, too. Don’t get me wrong. It’s not that all men hate Coldplay – at least not at a Maroon 5 Super Bowl halftime show level – it’s just we guys prefer a bit more bang for our arena-rock buck. Simply put: A wild man thrashing around on a huge drum kit tops Coldplay frontman Chris Martin’s poetic musing and piano tinkling every time.

That said, there are ways in which this outing will sort of resemble a rock concert, and that is what you must concentrate on. If, for example, the mere mention of Coldplay causes your beau to do that eye-rolling thing or, heaven forbid, turn his cap back around the right way, let him know there will be a massive, massive laser show – the kind only a really rich band can afford. Remind him there will be alcohol available, too. Alcohol and lasers, ladies. That’s something he can’t get at those planetarium laser shows (unless he’s really sneaky).

Plus, this being a rock concert, of sorts, your fellow will have the opportunity to dress up, or rather down – or in many cases, dress like he normally does whenever he’s not at work. Tattered jeans? Kid Rock T-shirt with no sleeves? No problem. Encourage it. Remember, he can’t embarrass you. It’s an arena show; most people will dress worse. Some will have pierced heads and facial tattoos to boot.

Then there’s always the simple guy-friendly fact that Coldplay does at least play guitars and drums at fairly high volume – at least when Martin isn’t tickling the keyboard and being sincere about something or other. In truth, there’s a chance your fellow will become a fan before it’s all over. Of course, if he does, he’ll never admit it to you. [Article ends]

Oxfam On Tour: These last few weeks have taken me the length and breadth of different Oxfam’s in Europe. I have met Oxfam volunteer’s from 5 of Oxfam affiliate’s; Oxfam Intermon, Oxfam France, Oxfam Italia, Oxfam Germany and Oxfam Great Britain. I have travelled 6 different countries and sometimes were in two different countries within 24 hours. Am I a super hero? No I’m on tour with Coldplay. In the last few weeks I have seen Coldplay fans in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Switzerland and England and each one of those countries brought a new eye opener and experience for me, brace yourself for the next few minutes you are going to experience these things with me.

On arrival to the first venue in Portugal, the tour book stated the venue would hold 43,000 people that night. I didn’t think much of it, surely there wasn’t much difference between 16,000 – 43,000 people?! I was most defiantly wrong!! Standing outside the arena waiting for the volunteers to arrive I sat and took in the noise and movement that such an amount of people have. From that point I instantly knew that this tour was going to be a whole different ball game.

In Spain I wandered around Altetico Madrid’s dressing rooms and experienced what some would call tropical showers. Such showers I was not prepared for in my English style shorts and flip-flops! But Spanish fans didn’t care, they showed me what being a true fan was about, standing all night in the rain, silencing it’s fall on the stadium with their cheers and versions of “nobody said it was easy”.

Nice was the city where I had my first taste of French onion soup! Which sparked my addiction to find soup that tastes as spectacular. Canned soup just doesn’t beat it! It was also the city where the wristband boys and myself found xylo men statues in the centre square. Each one of them changing in sequence and lighting up the night sky. If you haven’t already people, go and see these statues. Turin was the date when the ‘Coldplay cloud’, that had followed us from Porto through to Nice, started to part. The crew started became instantly happy, the truck drivers pulled out their picnic tables and set up a ‘bronzing camp’ (Rachel’s new word. The definition of bronzing camp – where Brits set up a sunbathing lounge complete with sun lotion swapping and cold cans of juice). Turin was also the city of surprises, when on arrival I was shocked into silence as the main Piazza opened up into a huge space, fenced off by beautiful classical buildings and outdoor eateries where people we laughing and eating just like a designer sunglasses advert. It was heaven. On sitting to eat I realised I had actually walked into a holiday concert where their own local star was performing and I was sat right in the middle of thousands of people. It was bliss.

Next was Switzerland, where I had the amazing opportunity of meeting a partner that Oxfam works with, the Clean Clothes Campaign. Such a meeting provided me with a deepening of my Oxfam knowledge and how we deliver our programmes. To top this, when I thought I couldn’t, I even got to try some Swiss patisserie in the shape of a vanilla slice! Yum!

From Switzerland we were on route home, I must admit it was strange going to bed in Switzerland to wake up in France, cross the channel on the ferry and then go back to sleep again to wake up finally in Coventry. They truly are submarine drives where I spend my time drawing in my travel journal, listening to new albums and watching a lot of cartoons to past the hours. This is the time I spent catching up on writing postcards I bought three countries ago and never posted, (they are still sat undelivered on my desk at home, sorry Mum).

This tour was very different to my first one in the US because it spanned such a mixtures of experiences. I really didn’t think I could fit some much culture, memories and people into three weeks. So as a way to finish, here are my best moments from the Europe tour:

- Racing up and down the arena on scooters, these venues are big places they need toy scooters to get around, well that’s my excuse

- Filming volunteer’s dressed up as peas and carrots, rocking out to Coldplay tunes

- Taking photos of my American colleague next to every fountain and quaint lamp post in Madrid

- Paddling in French sea on Nice’s seafront before our morning pick up call

- Being featured in a French newspaper

- Eating ‘real’ Italian pizza in Turin, sat in the stadium’s car park watching the trucks load out of the venue

- Watching the wristbands move like a neon ocean in Zurich

- Meeting a variety of Oxfam Great Britain volunteers in London

- Watching an American crew member have a conversation with a Geordie (person who lives in the Newcastle area) and knowing that they didn’t understand a word they were saying due to their accent, but nodding in politeness

- Arriving in my home town’s (Manchester) football stadium where I spent a lot of time with my Dad only to be arriving this time with the Coldplay crew

All that in three weeks, phew, now I’m sat at home in London packing my suitcase again to head back to the states for some East side adventures and I can’t wait. See you across the pond, Rachel. [Article ends]

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester, UK (10th June 2012):

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Coldplay round-up: Princess Of China US/UK chart update, MX album rises, graffiti backdrop gets coverage

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Coldplay made some significant strides in the online world this week as their newest video for the song Princess of China, featuring Rihanna, was released on June 2nd, writes Billboard this week. That causes Coldplay to make a big jump on Billboard's Social 50 chart, rising 30-22.

The Social 50 chart ranks the most popular artists on YouTube, Vevo, Facebook, Twitter and MySpace, using a formula that blends weekly additions of friends/fans/followers along with weekly artist page views and weekly song plays. Princess of China, the fourth single from album Mylo Xyloto, has so far peaked at No. 20 on the Hot 100. The song's featuring Rihanna happens to also hold the No. 1 spot on the Social 50 this week.

Channeling audiences from two massive online fan bases (over 75 million combined fans on Facebook alone) the video was able to garner 7 million views in only seven days. That helped Coldplay rack up 14,732,000 views to its VEVO channel during the charting week. The success of the video created a positive impact on both artists' fan bases. Coldplay added just over 147,000 followers across Twitter, Facebook and Myspace to their overall fan base (a 7% increase) while Rihanna added 407,482.

Meanwhile, in the UK singles chart, Princess Of China is up fourth places to 4th in the charts, after it's eleventh week of release. More on the worldwide chart updates are at the PoC sub-forum now. [thanks Jack DC 93, Prospector, chommy_16]

This is the second time that Coldplay have have had 2 top 5 singles from an album: Paradise(1)-Poc(4), Speed Of Sound(2)-Fix You(4). And also the second with 3 top tens: ETIAW(6)-Paradise-Princess Of China, Speed Of Sound-Fix You-Talk(10). The Mylo Xyloto album is also up to fourth in the UK album charts.

Princess Of China up to 4th in the UK singles charts... and still rising after eleven weeks on the chart...

If you've been to the recent stadium tour concerts, you'll have seen the huge graffiti swathes covering the full stand behind the stage. Well, they come from a company called Service Graphics based in the NW of England who Print Week has written about as they complete their latest high-profile job with the production of a major backdrop for Coldplay's European 'Mylo Xyloto' Tour. Their article continues as follows...

The company, the large-format print and display division of St Ives Group, was tasked with producing a lightweight, waterproof and flame retardant print job to cover the stadium seating behind the stage. Printed on the company's NUR Expedio UV roll-to-roll printer, the backdrop comprises a range of different sized sections, the largest of which measures 20x20m.

Service Graphics opted to print the backdrop on acrylic coated Visiontex material, which was carried out at its Skelmersdale facility in Lancashire. According to the company, the key challenges during production included maintaining colour consistency coupled with the need for backdrop sections to match up.

Service Graphics sales director Scott King said: "We are thrilled to have been selected to provide graphics for such a high profile tour. It demonstrates the variety and quality of the products and services we offer and positions Service Graphics as a ‘best practice’ service provider."

Last month, Service Graphics produced what is claimed to be the UK's largest ever PVC print job, a 100mx37m banner commemorating the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. The banner, which was printed in 42 separate sections, was mounted on Sea Containers House, a 46m-high building located on London's South Bank. In its latest interim management statement, Patrick Martell, chief executive of Service Graphics parent St Ives, said point-of-sale business activity in general was described as "strong", but that margins are being driven down due to the ultra-competitive retail market.

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Emirates Stadium, London (4th June 2012):

Photos courtesy of propperbo66 @ Flickr (click for more!)

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

400,000 reasons to see Coldplay in concert: Chris Martin talks to Bauer Radio about the Xylobands

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Coldplay have revealed the cost of the Xylobands, with Chris Martin saying that illuminating their stadium audiences is costing the band £400,000 per gig. In an interview with Bauer Radio, Jonny told of the cost of the light-up wristbands, which incorporate LED lights and are controlled by an wireless signal. Whether it does actually cost that much is anyone's guess, but the full interview and exclusive Coldplay gig will be aired tonight from 8pm across 20 Bauer Radio stations in the UK. Visit coldplayindemand.com for more information, and head over to the Coldplay Live forum (Sunderland thread) for discussion on tonight's concert playback and interview.

"Every night, I think it's about £400,000," Chris told the show. "It looks amazing, it just makes everyone have a great time - most of all us - and it just feels so magical! So we're just immensely grateful for them."

He also added that the wristbands were reason alone to see the band's shows. "Even if you don't like our music now, I would say come to the show just to see that – wear earplugs, bring a book and when the lights come on, have a look!"

Meanwhile, ahead of the radio broadcast tonight, Will Champion said: "When we went into recording the album, all we went in with was an idea that we wanted to try as many different things as possible. We had never done any collaborations with anyone before so it was something we were open to. Chris had written that song quite a long time ago and he had always had it in his head that Rihanna was going to be singing the female part of the song."

Champion continued: "We questioned whether we should have anyone sing on our album because we hadn't done it before, is it cool to do that? Or is it cool to get somebody who's got such a huge profile to be the other half of the duet? Or should we get somebody that has a great voice that is completely unknown? We all love Rihanna and we came to the decision that if we are going to get someone to come and sing on it, it should be the best person and she's obviously an incredible artist. She was the original intention for the female part, so it just had to be her really!"

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Emirates Stadium, London (4th June 2012):

Photos courtesy of g-roosh @ Flickr (click for more!)

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Guardian blog: My Coldplay wristband has a life force of its own

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Further to our article published yesterday rounding up the media furore over the 'alien' Xylobands, the Guardian have responded with their own blog, headed by the caption, "Nine days after a gig, my Xyloband spontanously lit up. Are Coldplay trying to tell me something?" We're surprised the battery lasted that long, but it's definately not aliens. Let us know at the Coldplay forum if you can beat this record. Read on for their blog entry...

Nine days had elapsed since the Coldplay show. Throughout that time, the wristband sat on my desk and, to the best of my knowledge, there was no glowing. Well, why would there be? Our remotely activated wristbands – or, to give them their proper name, Xylobands – had served their purpose. At the gig, they flashed up in pretty colours. It looked amazing. Then the show finished and they went back to sleep. But on Sunday night, an odd thing happened. My one spontaneously lit up. But why?

It's not as if I didn't think there was a perfectly rational explanation: more that the perfectly rational explanation might involve every person whose Xyloband had lit up marching like dead-eyed supplicants back to the Emirates, whereupon Chris Martin and our new reptile overlords would command us to shed our earthly containers. So, it was with some relief on Monday that I: (a) woke up to a world that seemed unchanged; and (b) happened upon a quote from Clive Banks, co-founder of RB Concepts, which makes Xylobands. "There's no mind-control or tracking," he said.

Reassuring, yes, but by the same token, part of me feels there has long been something a little mind-controlly about the wristband as proudly brandished rock memento. It has become a "thing", hasn't it? Increasingly, people return from festivals and they keep their wristbands on in perpetuity. The wristband people are trying to tell us something. They're trying to tell us that they went to [insert other life-changing festival here] and returned as People Who Went To [insert other life-changing festival here].

But while all this may help explain the psychology of the rock wristband as artefact, it doesn't completely assuage the nagging fear that the next time my Xyloband flashes up, everything's about to go a bit, well ... a bit Doctor Who. According to Banks, "Our record transmission is 2km" – but on the evening that my one spontaneously lit up, Coldplay were 200 miles away in Manchester. How to explain that? "There might be some faulty units going off," he added. Perhaps he's right. In the words of one unkind Twitter respondent: "Why would Coldplay use wristbands to create an army of supplicants when their music does it so well?"

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Media reports: Coldplayers' flashing Xylobands are keeping fans awake at night

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Several articles have surfaced online today in the British media about Coldplay fans claiming that some Xylobands given out at concerts are keeping them awake at night. The Independent, The Sun and the Telegraph have all written a piece on this topic in the last few hours. You can discuss the articles (and of course whether you think they're even newsworthy) at the Coldplay forum now. Read on for the articles.. [thanks Tash]

The Independent: The coloured wristbands that turn stadiums into a spectacle of flashing lights are the real stars of Coldplay's shows, according to some. But fans have been spooked after the glow-in-the-dark devices suddenly began flashing of their own accord, days after the event. Producers of Xylobands, given free to two million gig-goers on Coldplay's tour, have moved to assure fans, who took wristbands home, that they have no sinister powers.

The Xylobands use ultra-low-power microcontrollers to receive and process wireless signals that trigger the wristband's LEDs to light up in sync with the music and stage lights show. They cannot be reactivated outside of the show – in theory. But a concert-goer named Denise wrote on the band's web forum: "My xyloband woke me up in the middle of the night and it's still glowing."

Another wrote: "Really weird, my dad's white xyloband just started flashing again." A Belgian fan added: "Mine is alive! It started flickering about an hour ago." A respondent said that the only way to stop the glowing was by jamming a pencil clip into the unit.

The band has invested in RB Concepts, the Devon firm which developed the devices. Although Martin said the cost of producing two million bands for the tour was excessive, the company has received hundreds of requests to use them, from weddings to US sports franchises. Clive Banks, who is the co-founder of RB Concepts, said that the "afterglow" is no cause for concern. "There's no mind control or tracking, they are just for fun," he said. The devices may be activated by their proximity to a Coldplay concert. "Our record transmission is 2km," Mr Banks said. "It depends on buildings but they have quite a range in a straight line. There might be some faulty units going off."

Fans speculated that the bands had become activated after locking into a particular radio frequency. "They operate on different frequencies in different jurisdictions so we have to get permission to transmit," Mr Banks said. "We have to meet the health and safety requirements. We don't want to interfere with any emergency services."

The Xylobands were designed by Jason Regler of RB Concepts, who approached the band after seeing them play at Glastonbury. There is some hope for fans disturbed by their glowing bands. "They have a battery and a finite life span," Mr Banks said.

The Telegraph: The glow-in-the-dark devices created for the band’s live performances – known as Xylobands – usually die after the concerts. However, fans have reported that the bands, which have been given out for free to more than a million fans, have started flashing again of their own accord several days after the event. In theory the bands, which create a dramatic effect at Coldplay gigs, cannot be reactivated after the shows end. However, fans have been writing on the group’s web forum page about them doing just that. One concert-goer called Denise wrote: “My Xyloband woke me up in the middle of the night and it's still glowing." Another added: "Really weird, my dad's white Xyloband just started flashing again." A Belgian fan added: "Mine is alive! It started flickering about an hour ago."

It is believed the only way to stop the glowing is to jamming a pencil clip into the band. The Xylobands use ultra-low-power microcontrollers to receive and process wireless signals that trigger the wristband's LEDs to light up in sync with Coldplay’s music and stage lights show. Clive Banks, who is the co-founder of RB Concepts (the company behind the bands), told The Independent that the "afterglow" is no cause for concern. "There's no mind control or tracking, they are just for fun," he said.

The devices may be activated by their proximity to a Coldplay concert. "Our record transmission is 2km," Mr Banks said. "It depends on buildings but they have quite a range in a straight line. There might be some faulty units going off."

The Sun: Coldplay fans have been left wearing a mysterious "alien" glow after turning up at packed concerts. Radio frequency wristbands are handed out at the shows so the whole arena lights up at once during big numbers. But days later fans are reporting how the “Xylobands” are still going off unexpectedly. Around two million of them have been given away over the course of the tour. Fans have been so spooked that Xylobands makers have tried to assure concertgoers that they have no sinister powers. Fan Sarah Roberts, 24, from Dartford, said her band was flashing a day after seeing the band at the Emirates stadium in north London. She said: “It was glowing in my bag a day later but this time there was no music. It’s a little bit eerie. Maybe it was aliens.” Rebecca Treadway tweeted: “My Coldplay xyloband is alive! started glowing last night...spooky.” And Lee Hickmans added: “My Xyloband is FINALLY running out of battery. It’s the light equivalent of a dog whining after hurting its paw.

The company behind the bands has to get permission each time they are used because of the radio signals involved. They are careful to ensure frequencies don’t clash with those used by the emergency services. Inventor Jason Regler reassured music fans: “They have a battery and a finite life span.”

The bands should not work beyond 1.2miles. Co-founder of RB Concepts Clive Banks added: “There's no mind control or tracking, they are just for fun. There might be some faulty units going off."

Is this happening to you? (please don't lose any sleep over it though...)

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Manchester review 1: Coldplay delight 50,000 crowd at the Etihad Stadium (9-10 June)

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

The home of the Premier League champions Manchester City was taken over by Coldplay last night, writes the Manchester Evening News today, in a review article of Coldplay's Manchester shows on Saturday and Sunday night (9-10 June) at the Etihad Stadium. Catch up on the latest tweets, pictures, videos from the shows at the Coldplay Live forum here (9th - Saturday) and here (10th - Sunday) now. Read on for the M.E.N. review...

The band, led by front-man Chris Martin, played the first of two gigs at the Etihad Stadium. The second takes place tonight. Thousands of fans turned up to the Blues' ground to see them perform at the venue for the first time. The band's last Manchester gig was a Lancashire County Cricket Club.

Their recording career began in Manchester when they signed a record deal at the In The City festival. Read Rhiannon McDowell's review below, and share your experiences of the gig in the comments at the foot of the page...

Just in case you are wondering about the fireworks, screams, and 50,000 voices ringing out from Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium at the weekend – Coldplay were in town. The hugely successful British band, made up of lead singer Chris Martin, guitarist Guy Berryman, bassist Jonny Bucklandand drummer Will Champion, played in Manchester as part of their Mylo Xylo UK stadium tour, promoting their latest album.

The pressure was on after tickets sold out within 90 minutes of release and a second date was added to the Manchester leg. But the boys, who have racked up an impressive back catalogue of hits, delivered the goods with arguably the most colourful and entertaining stadium concert of the year. Not only did they give a hugely energetic performance of hits such as The Scientist, Violet Hill and Paradise, but the crowd was constantly entertained with fireworks, confetti cannons and 50 enormous air-filled balloons fired into the crowd.

Perhaps the most impressive sight was the array of multicoloured wrist bands issued to each audience member and flashed in time with the music. The bands came in pink, green, red, orange, blue and white, and were radio controlled to flash upon the band’s command. A truly awesome spectacle was when Chris Martin casually ordered: “Put your hands in the air - watch this,’ before lying back to enjoy 50,000 multicoloured stars light up the darkened arena.

It was the perfect way to make each and every member of the audience feel part of something amazing. Support acts Rita Ora and Robyn warmed up the excited crowd early in the Saturday evening before the band appeared on stage to give a rapturous opening performance of Mylo Xyloto and Hurts Like Heaven.

The most impressive songs were those accompanied by the pyrotechnics and flashing bands, such as God Put a Smile on Your Face, Charlie Brown and Paradise. But Chris Martin did a fine job when he took to the middle of the arena to perform Up In Flames and Warning Sign on his own.

Another special moment was when members gathered one by one on a tiny stage at the back of the stadium to perform Speed of Sound. The night ended with the band back on the main stage for a firework spectacular and rousing performances of Clocks, Fix You, and Every Teardrop is a Waterfall.

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Etihad Stadium (9-10 June 2012):

Photos courtesy of bpmharris @ Flickr (click for more!)

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Sunderland review 2: Record crowd wowed at Stadium Of Light (7th June)

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

The home of Sunderland AFC truly became the Stadium of Light on Thursday evening as a record crowd in excess of 55,000 people - all wearing spectacular light-emitting wristbands - was wowed by music giants Coldplay, writes the SAFC website today (official site of Sunderland FC), in a review article of Coldplay's show on Thursday night (7th June). Catch up on more on the latest tweets, pictures, videos from the shows at the Coldplay Live forum now. Read on to see what the hosts made of the spectacle...

The multi-award winning Coldplay, supported by critically-acclaimed female vocalists Rita Ora and Robyn, kicked off Sunderland's trio of summer concerts in sensational style, with Bruce Springsteen and the Red Hot Chili Peppers set to follow on 21st and 24th June respectively. Thursday's event, accentuated by spectacular pyrotechnics and special effects, has been hailed a runaway success by event organisers, with the record crowd - magnificent throughout despite pouring rain - in fantastic spirits.

Sunderland AFC's commercial director, Gary Hutchinson - the man responsible for securing performing artists at the Stadium of Light - said: "Coldplay's performance has to rank as one of the best musical spectacles we've seen at the Stadium of Light so we're thrilled to have brought it to the people of the North East...

"Since we started concerts at the stadium in 2009, there has been a huge amount of hard work by key agencies behind the scenes to help us to continue securing the biggest and best performers. It simply underlines why the region is now a firm fixture on the music industry map and that bodes very well for forthcoming years."

Local authorities have also spoken of the event's successful safety and logistical operations, with crowds largely unaffected by scheduled strike action on the Tyne & Wear Metro network. Sunderland City Council's Ken Scott, chairman of the Safety Advisory Group, said: "We experienced the biggest show seen at the Stadium of Light and I'm delighted to say it went exceptionally well. The weather conditions didn't dampen spirits and the crowd generated a great atmosphere. "Despite some initial concerns about the potential difficulties for fans arriving and departing the stadium we did not experience any issues and all queues cleared within an hour of the band leaving the stage - which is actually quicker than previous concerts."

Chief Inspector Sean McKenna of Northumbria Police commented: "Concert-goers were extremely well-behaved and they had clearly heeded the advice issued prior to the show, which was very pleasing. They showed patience and understanding and worked with stewards and police to ensure that everyone got away as quickly and safely as possible.

"The bus service provided by Nexus assisted concert-goers and the traffic management system also worked very well. Naturally we experienced some congestion but that is to be expected given the crowd numbers. All in all it was a very successful event and a great evening."

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Stadium Of Light, Sunderland (7th June 2012):

Photos courtesy of nikkinakkinoo @ Flickr (click for more!)

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

Sunderland review: Coldplay 'rain supreme' at the Stadium Of Light (7th June)

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Coldplay continued their World Tour with a one night stop at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light, and with incessant rainfall, a rather wet 50,000 fans were rewarded with one of the best live shows currently on the road anywhere in the world. writes the What Culture today, in a review article of Coldplay's Sunderland show on Thursday night (7th June). Catch up on more on the latest tweets, pictures, videos from the shows at the Coldplay Live forum now. Read on for the What Culture review... we'll have some more articles coming soon!

It was fitting that Coldplay brought the show to a close with Every Tear is a Waterfall as tears and waterfalls were served up in equal measure in Sunderland as the cold and rain set upon the waiting 50,000 Northerners present, challenging even the toughest stereotypes who favoured t shirts and short skirts over waterproofs normally favoured by hardy explorers. But frankly by the end of the night no one could have cared less.

With Rita Ora and Robyn offering support, gazebos were a necessary on-stage prop to protect equipment as they warmed up the crowd, engaging the crowd with their biggest hits and distracting from the increasing dampness. The R&B/Jazz/Dance/Electro/Pop sound both offer wasn’t necessarily something the average Coldplay fan would have been interested in but both were entertaining and worked to involve everyone.

With the rain offering no respite the crowd kept in good spirits while waiting for the night’s entertainment to arrive. As the stage hands desperately tried to brush the water off the stage until the last moment, eventually the tarpaulins covering the instruments went off, the lights went down and the “put your flashing wristband on now” signs disappeared.

With the Back to the Future theme score welcoming them on, the band leapt onto the stage and got things flying with Hurts like Heaven, the stage lights going into overdrive and incessant fireworks meant there was a sensory overload that had everyone bouncing around in instantaneous glee. A kaleidoscopic light show dazzled as the radio controlled wristbands sparkled like multi-coloured stars creating an arena of light and sound that completely swept you away.

Chris Martin when not needed on piano and guitar duty cavorted down the runways down the middle of the crowd and to the sides, literally rolling around to the enchantment of the near by fans and covering every available inch of stage. A phenomenal opening somehow got even better as confetti canons launched thousands of butterflies onto the crowd, the rain ensuring everyone was plastered in multi-coloured paper Mache for the rest of the night. Next up about 50 huge multi-coloured balloons were thrown to the crowd to bounce around creating a joyous and playful atmosphere that crackled with excitement and delight.

Slower songs like The Scientist brought a more minimalist AV approach as the last of balloons disappeared down the back of the crowd and the band worked their way through their older tracks before moving to the end of the central walkway for a semi-acoustic set, the highlight of which for the younger fans was new single Princess of China, featuring a video cameo of Rhianna on the big screens. Having worked their way through the sing-along, arm waving part of the show, they moved back to the main stage and upped the tempo with more wristband featuring songs, the darkening stadium meaning the effect became increasingly mesmerising.

With the crowd still bouncing after Charlie Brown, eventually the torrential rain started to have an effect and prompted a change of piano as Chris Martin played the opening chords ofParadisethat admittedly sounded a touch gurgled.

The crowd filled time with an unprompted “woh oh oh” Violet Hill chant as the crew worked rapidly to wheel out dryer equipment. New piano in situ, the show got back underway. The band disappeared for the customary break before the encore and took everyone by surprise when they appeared on a smaller stage at the rear of the stadium to the pleasure of the fans at the rear, each band member entering separately to build up to a full rendition of Us Against the World and then Speed of Sound.

Finally the band returned again to the main stage and brought the night to a close, the energetic Clocks making full use of the last of the wristbands’ batteries and producing a hypnotic light show when coupled with the lasers that created a wall of light above the standing fans that stretched back across the stadium. The emotional Fix You followed with the increasingly hoarse and wet crowd matching the band in giving their all and being dazzled by yet more fireworks at the crescendo before the closing track brought the house down. All the lights were turned on full for one last time, the five massive circular video walls dancing with images of the band and graffiti as the pyrotechnics lit up the sky again and again to bring an incredible night to a close.

The crowd, soggy of foot and sore of throat, applauded and cheered what was an incredible performance as the band took their bows. The rain and local train strikes could quite easily have put a dampener on things, literally, but this was a spectacle of the highest measure that embraces all your senses and delivers more than was expected from even the most loyal of fan. A fantastic night from a fantastic band.

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Stadium Of Light, Sunderland (7th June 2012):

Photos courtesy of nikkinakkinoo @ Flickr (click for more!)

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]