Coldplay is a British alternative rock band from London. They have released nine albums since their formation in 1997, which have received generous attention worldwide. Coldplay’s sound is unique and almost indescribable, procuring them multiple Grammys, MTV Music Awards, and more.
I first started listening to Coldplay when I was only a toddler, thanks to my mom. I would sit in the backseat of the car singing along as she played her favorite CDs. Ever since then, my admiration for the band only grew, as I explored even more of their music. There have been many astounding releases by my favorite artists, but Parachutes, Coldplay’s first album, is one of the few I can truly say has no skips. Every single song is beautiful and captivating, I can easily listen to it all the way through.
Parachutes has somewhat of a somber tone, with evident themes of love and longing. Like many of their albums, it has a blend of moving choruses and dreamy, melancholic instrumentals. This album is particularly famous for its songs “Yellow” and “Sparks,” which are amazing of course, but the rest of the album deserves equal amounts of love. Here is a quick analysis of each song on the album and what I like about them.
This song expresses the bands struggle with fame and the pressures that come with it. It has melodic guitar and pleasant falsetto vocals by lead singer Chris Martin. I think the ending of this song is really unique, as it ends almost abruptly, compelling the audience to continue with the rest of the album.
“Shiver” is one of the more upbeat songs in this album. I really enjoy the catchy chorus of this song and it’s interpretation of unrequited love.
“Spies” describes the feeling of paranoia and the inability to find peace. I think this song provides a different theme to the album and delivers an almost haunting feeling to bewitch the audience.
Arguably the saddest song to ever exist. This love song about longing and regret will be tugging at your heart strings. “Sparks” is one of my favorites of the album and a go to song when I want to experience that gut-wrenching nostalgic feeling.
“Yellow” is one of Coldplay’s top hits, charting number four in the UK. It’s a beautiful song that captures the indescribable feeling of love. Another Coldplay classic and favorite of mine.
This one might just be my favorite of the album. “Trouble” portrays the regret of treating someone wrongly, and stirs up the most feelings in me through Martin’s passionate vocals.
Short and sweet. Only 46 seconds long (and I wish it was longer), but the soothing guitar and lyrics provide a pleasant and calming feeling. “Parachutes” symbolizes safety and security.
The instrumentals of this track are the most complex and unique of all on the album, it almost feels out of place. However in a way, this is a perfect change of pace needed for the album. It symbolizes the chaos and busyness of life.
The bittersweet lyrics of “We Never Change” exemplify the simplicities of life and love. This one is really mellow and charming.
Last but not least, this track invokes the feeling of hope with its uplifting chorus. I really enjoy the transition from the simplistic piano at the beginning to the tuneful and upbeat guitar.