Four star

ONE couldn't help but imagine how Coldplay could improve on the success of genius creations Parachutes and the more recent Rush of Blood to the Head.

As Coldplay's Number One Fan, I'm sure I wasn't alone in my concern for the band following frontman Chris Martin's marriage to actress Gwyneth Paltrow, my apprehension increasing after the birth of baby Apple.

But Coldplay have done it again, proving their worth with yet another succession of glorious tunes which are brought to life with Martin's plaintive vocals.

In keeping with Rush's overall theme, the songs of X&Y aren't simply catchy singles so much as engaging and meticulously crafted tracks that fit seamlessly together.

But album number three shows a change in direction, revealing Coldplay's maturation from the earnest but simplistic studenty days of Yellow and Trouble.

The soft, thoughtful melodies of What If and Fix You give a sense of a contentment and acceptance which contrasts with the heartache expressed in former albums and resonates in the words I Won't Try to Fix You.

But Coldplay strike out confidently in X&Y - a confidence which few could deny them.

It was worth the wait.

CS