Coldplay just released Atlas, and being the first of the few to have a listen since it's release, let's start the review straight away. Lyric video for Atlas. So Atlas is apparently the first track to be released from The Hunger Games: Catching Fire Soundtrack, undoubtedly one of the fan favorite movies go-to this fall when it hits theaters November 22. That's not the notion, but rather the ethic which has comprised and was built into Atlas, that Coldplay has done has left me swooning over their ability once again. Let's start with the beginning. Atlas opens up to soothing piano plays before Martin, the lead singer, says it slowly yet tensely, 'Some saw the sun; Some saw the smoke; Some heard the gun; Some bent the bow,' it all slowly forthcoming yet being intricate, and somewhat also reminiscent of old Coldplay days (before Mylo Xyloto to be exact). The track then sets up for it's mighty big leap of faith; the chorus which is destined to hit the peak all fans are expecting. And before it reaches there, Martin expresses 'caught in the fire; Say 'oh'; We're about; To explode.' Before the epic snare drum sound eclipses it and the vocals soar, going 'Carry your world; I'll carry your world,' before doing a refrain twice, and going on with the song. I felt this was a good way to picture the scenario when you first listen to the song. There were some issues, but it was all confined under one space: the chorus. So Coldplay are known for some of the best catchy hooks in their entire career. I'm not saying that this chorus in Atlas wasn't catchy, but while Martin's voice is memorable, I had wished the chorus to be of something more. It wasn't as exciting as I thought it would be, considered the amount of work being laid before it's pavement stockpiled into this abrupt yet sudden change of tone. It was big, yes, but it was tense and felt like it wasn't enough. Lyrically, it possess it's strength well and holds it down over the song. But the chorus to me, was the biggest letdown in my opinion. Not only was it not sufficient, while it was strong, it did not prove anything that the verse could not do on it's own. Other than that, the piano, drums and vocals all worked for me. But slight adjustments to it could've been far, far better done, and Atlas would've been one of the best week-ending singles you'll hear yet. Don't hold that thought down though, as Atlas jaunts you on a journey, especially during the verses. If you listen hard enough, you might get some lyrical tidbits that you'd never expect, coming off The Hunger Game's sophomore movie due November. Some far away Ratings:
Originality: 8/10 - Coldplay has an amazing agglomeration of classics, and Atlas might sit up on the porch alongsides Viva La Vida and even Lost!. Sound: 7/10 - Despite the flaws bridging in to the overall side of the song from the chorus, it still holds it's place simply well. Lyrics: 9/10 - It's really metaphorical and should take some time to understand and delve into further. Overall: 24/30 - Atlas is jarringly good. While the chorus may seem to disappoint in my favor, give it a few more listens. It will grow on you. It's tense yet soothing; undeniably rich in depth and rewarding if you stayed until the end. It's ultimately a re-collective soul-searching experience the song provides. I will be playing it for days - Coldplay is one of my favorite UK bands anyway! Be sure to catch Jennifer Lawrence in The Hunger Games' sequel on November 22 and mark that date down on your calendar.
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AuthorBenny Ong: Just your regular guy who likes soccer more than most people, and also a little downtime is pretty nice. Archives
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