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. Imagine
my surprise, then, when I walked into Coldplay's concert last month
to encounter this very feeling. I have never really been into Coldplay
and I didn't know much about them aside from their singles. For those
of you who have not been blessed with knowledge of this band, they are
a mix of Oasis' guitar rock, U2's vocals, and Radiohead's eclectic feel.
Out of all these they are most defined by lead singer Chris Martin's
incredible voice and stage presence. His voice rings with vibrant tones
and utter passion. He brought the entire auditorium to life with it,
a rare event in entertainment today. He also had a very personal interaction
with the crowd, from facetious quips to earnest emotions, so that everyone
had a unique experience.
Another feature the
show had going for it was the brand new venue - The Convocation Center
at the University of Miami. The innovative stage featured projections
of the band members on the back wall of the stage, broadcasting their
every move. There was also one of the best light shows I've ever seen
at a concert covering the entire stage and audience with light. These
factors, combined with the small venue, made for a really powerful show.
The setting was really an integral part of the show because it was so
pleasant. Located on the UM campus, the Convocation Center took me only
fifteen minutes to get to, has tons of parking, and, with seven thousand
seats, is a much more manageable concert than the amphitheatres where
large bands usually come. No two hour drives, no long lines to get in
the door…no hassle. I really hope that high profile bands continue to
come to the Convocation Center, because it really is a much more enjoyable
place to see a concert.
With almost six
million copies of both their albums sold, Coldplay is enjoying great
success. Their current American tour should help spread popularity and
knowledge of them to a more widespread US audience. In short, I hope
so, because they are a phenomenal band who I would like to see again
and again and again. If you are not into them, or have never heard them,
I highly suggest that you pick up either of their albums (2000's Parachutes
or 2002's A Rush of Blood to the Head) or see them in concert. It is
what I would call "perfection."
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