ColdPlay

The British Invasion Returns! Coldplay has soared up the modern rock charts since coming to America in July and hitting it big over Christmas with their hit-single, "Yellow." Coldplay has managed to do what other chart-toppers fail miserably at, creating sentimental pop melodies that are both beautiful and carefully constructed.\nParachutes flows gently and methodically through 10 tracks of distinctly British pop. But far from being another Radiohead or Oasis rip-off, Coldplay has a sound they can call their own. A plesant mix of acoustic and electric guitars, along with the occasional classical piano, the music puts listeners in a comfortable limbo between enthusiasm and relaxation.\nWhile "Yellow" is a standout track on Parachutes, it is fairly atypical of the album. A gentle love song filled with heart-warming acoustics and up-tempo electrics, "Yellow" is both sweet and subtly depressing. It is this contrast that gives the song its true power. "I came along / I wrote a song for you, and all the things you do / and it was called 'Yellow,'" sings Chris Martin.\nOther songs like "Don't Panic" and "Trouble" exemplify the power of this album. On both tracks the cool piano and quick electric guitar hits catch the listener. Each seperate element is in no way exceptional, but each is pure in its musical sense and, when combined, they create a sound of ambience and soft beauty.\nLike many British bands, it is the lead singer's distinctive voice that helps add energy to the songs. Martin's vocal range and British accent compliment the music, striking a delicate balance between chaos and artistic mastery. \nWhile Coldplay may lack the artistry of Radiohead or the marketing power of Oasis, they make up for it with pure musical simplicity. Their music is rarely too complex, but multiple layers and soothing sounds make Parachutes a catchy and relaxing masterpiece.