A Head Full of Dreams
by Coldplay
  • Record Label: Atlantic
  • Release Date: Dec 4, 2015
User Score
6.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 461 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 275 out of 461
  2. Mixed: 121 out of 461
  3. Negative: 65 out of 461
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  1. Talhamid
    Dec 4, 2015
    10
    Now it is established: even if Coldplay come up with Sgt Peppers, critics will still hate them. Their lyrics are deeply scrutinized and their attempt at reinventing themselves on every album is seen as aping other bands. By contrast they go gaga over Taylor Swift. Oasis were forgiven through the biggest bad-album streak in history yet Coldplay, a band whose worst album IMHO (Mylo Xyloto)Now it is established: even if Coldplay come up with Sgt Peppers, critics will still hate them. Their lyrics are deeply scrutinized and their attempt at reinventing themselves on every album is seen as aping other bands. By contrast they go gaga over Taylor Swift. Oasis were forgiven through the biggest bad-album streak in history yet Coldplay, a band whose worst album IMHO (Mylo Xyloto) is still leagues better than the rest, are never given a chance. Good thing the general public disagrees. I can't praise this album enough; have a feeling in a few years time this will be regarded as one of the great albums. Neatly bookended by the title track (a track that reminds one of U2's triumphant start to The Unforgettable Fire, A Sort of Homecoming) and the closing track Up and Up, which is haunting, glorious, epic, and melacholy at the same time (with nothing less than a gleaming guitar solo from former scoffer Gallagher), and containing unexpected, shimmering melodies in between, this album works for anyone, Coldplay fan or not. So my message is: NEVER MIND THE BOLLOCKS, give this album a listen and you will love it. Guaranteed… Expand
  2. coldplayvideo
    Dec 15, 2015
    10
    This "Critic reviews" score is not well done, look at the 2 "Negative" reviews, nobady knows those magazines/websites, and take a look at the positive ones (Q Mag, Rolling Stone, NME, NYT, etc.). This album deserves a higher score, its a fantastic joyfull album. Beautiful melodies .
  3. Kelsier
    Jan 16, 2016
    10
    Loved the album a lot and it is according to me 2015's best release. Can't believe critics rated it so low.
    After a few listening s, it grows on you. I say don't go on what critics say and give the album a chance. Tracks like - Hymn for a weekend, A head full of dreams are amazing.
  4. eXadrian
    Jan 6, 2016
    7
    It is a more lighthearted album that is mostly forgettable. But there are a couple of songs that are good. One is the song "Hymn For The Weekend", which in my opinion is the best song on the album. Other songs that are good are "Adventure Of A Lifetime", "Army Of One" and "Everglow". "Up&Up" and the title song "A Head Full Of dreams" are alright but feel like they are a bit rushed. TheIt is a more lighthearted album that is mostly forgettable. But there are a couple of songs that are good. One is the song "Hymn For The Weekend", which in my opinion is the best song on the album. Other songs that are good are "Adventure Of A Lifetime", "Army Of One" and "Everglow". "Up&Up" and the title song "A Head Full Of dreams" are alright but feel like they are a bit rushed. The rest of the songs are bland and not very good, like they are just there to fill the gaps to make a full album.

    In the end the album is alright, but could have been better, they should have taken more time to add better songs to make this album great. However the few songs that are good make up for the bad ones.    … Expand
  5. Ricko
    Nov 20, 2016
    8
    After 7 albums, Coldplay deserve to be pleased with themselves, having produced 3 great pop rock albums in "Parachutes", "A Rush Of Blood To The Head" and "Viva La Vida or Death And All His Friends". What Coldplay should be less pleased about is that the most recent of their truly great albums was released in 2008, almost a decade (and three albums) ago. After the downbeat but likeableAfter 7 albums, Coldplay deserve to be pleased with themselves, having produced 3 great pop rock albums in "Parachutes", "A Rush Of Blood To The Head" and "Viva La Vida or Death And All His Friends". What Coldplay should be less pleased about is that the most recent of their truly great albums was released in 2008, almost a decade (and three albums) ago. After the downbeat but likeable "Ghost Stories", "A Head Full Of Dreams" goes back into Mylo Xyloto territory in terms of tone and texture, pop songs laced with production techniques and studio trickery to make them sound current and contemporary. The problem with this approach (and this can already be seen in Coldplay's back catalogue) is that this month's current sound, whatever it may be at the time, dates incredibly quickly. Coldplay's early material was timeless indie rock gradually progressing to stadium rock. The band's early singles still sound good to those of us who picked them up when they were released. Everything they've done post 2008 has followed a pattern of initially swamping the airwaves and then quickly disappearing, rarely to be heard of again. How often do you hear anything from Mylo Xyloto these days, a mere 5 years after it was released, in comparison to the likes of "Clocks" or "In My Place". I wouldn't go as far as to say they are now exclusively producing disposable pop but their music is beginning to take on many of that genres characteristics. The point here I guess is that rating "A Head Full Of Dreams" now, while it's still relatively fresh, could be a different prospect in a couple of years time. Reviewing it today I have to score it reasonably highly. It doesn't achieve the heights Coldplay hit in the first half of their career but it comfortably sits with what they've produced in the latter half. It's got 11 tracks with track 8 containing 2 songs. 2 of these are interlude type songs that add very little so what we're dealing with is essentially a 10 song album. Half of these tracks are excellently written and produced and while some may dismiss them as ear candy, there is no denying that the tracks are enjoyable. The rest of the material alternates between being average and good. Highlights for me include "Fun" with it's outro lifted from "Viva La Vida" and "Army of One/X Marks the Spot". I can see the Coldplay fans who got on board at the start with "Parachutes" struggling to really develop a love for this one and perhaps the Coldplay train is now beginning to run out of steam. Having said that, this is still an enjoyable album and one that I'm glad I bought.… Expand
  6. SomePersona
    Feb 8, 2017
    8
    This album is just so breezy and likable. It's a little painful to listen to with headphones (there's SO MUCH BASS), but listening to it openly (e.g. in the car) is a real joy. There always seems to be a period where a band evolves into a different genre, usually becoming more poppy. This happened to Rush, it happened to Queen, and now it's happening to Coldplay. It's just a period; theThis album is just so breezy and likable. It's a little painful to listen to with headphones (there's SO MUCH BASS), but listening to it openly (e.g. in the car) is a real joy. There always seems to be a period where a band evolves into a different genre, usually becoming more poppy. This happened to Rush, it happened to Queen, and now it's happening to Coldplay. It's just a period; the band will stay like this for a while and then go back to its roots. Rush went back to its roots in the nineties, twenty hundreds, and twenty tens (e.g. Clockwork Angels), and Queen would have gone back to its roots had Freddie Mercury not died. Coldplay's going to escape this pop period; they'll just be here for a while. While they're here, though, there's a lot to enjoy.… Expand
  7. KenanLV426
    Jul 2, 2017
    10
    A fresh, bright and colorful album by the world`s best band that brings back the Mylo Xyloto vibes. Very very underrated! Every track can be listened to on and on and on...
  8. ATOTHEJ
    Jun 19, 2017
    10
    I love this album so much. It is much better than Ghost Stories (in my opinion) and is right up there with Mylo Xyloto and Viva La Vida and Death and all his friends. Obviously it is hard to mix the new with the old, but I think Coldplay has really shown that by the end of the careers they will be remembered as one of the greatest live performance acts of this generation, bar none. I haveI love this album so much. It is much better than Ghost Stories (in my opinion) and is right up there with Mylo Xyloto and Viva La Vida and Death and all his friends. Obviously it is hard to mix the new with the old, but I think Coldplay has really shown that by the end of the careers they will be remembered as one of the greatest live performance acts of this generation, bar none. I have loved Coldplay since I was a child and with each new album release, it is more astounding each and every time (minus Ghost Stories, which was good but I think the weakest of all of their albums.)… Expand
  9. MasterOfMusic
    Oct 22, 2017
    10
    Good sounds, good lyrics, good rhythm, this album is one of the most brilliant. How always Coldplay does a good job and give us good quality. It qualification should be 100.
  10. MahdiBzs
    Sep 26, 2018
    10
    I Don'T Like Pop Rock Music But This Album Was The Best Pop Rock Album I Heard. It 'S Good For Coldplay To Go Past ,Anyway It Was A Good Album.
  11. cold_akhil
    Aug 12, 2018
    10
    Coldplay has always been producing magical music. Don't ignore these beautiful tracks, listen once and you'll love to listen them all again and again.
  12. sambuu
    Nov 12, 2018
    10
    First time i'm listen to head full of dreams, i'm thought it's just a waste album.But after few times listens whole album i changed my mind.Birds and Fun are my most favorite songs from head full of dreams.
  13. FirebreatherID
    May 22, 2016
    10
    Such an amazing album this album contains great songs like fun, Up&Up, hymn for the weeknd.
    But come on guys we want the old coldplay.
    Best songs: up&up, birds, fun, marks the spot and Army of one
  14. IsaacD90
    Dec 6, 2015
    10
    I've listened to Coldplay since "Yellow" and this is my favorite album since 'X&Y' and second favorite overall. But, this is the type of Coldplay music I like, slow, ballads, melancholy, pop-ish songs!
  15. Mannhorse
    Dec 5, 2015
    7
    Their past albums (A Rush of Blood to the Head, Ghost Stories) are still better than this one, but Hymn for the Weekend is amazing, and so are few other tracks. This record just feels too sugary and sweet sometimes.
  16. asdfasdfasdfas1
    Dec 7, 2015
    10
    Fantastic album. Is great and dreamy - Perfect for a cold, chill, snowy day with a cup of coffee. Different from their older albums, but still has the classic Coldplay charm attached to it.
  17. Ckallvinn
    Jul 8, 2016
    10
    Definitely the best album that Coldplay has ever produced. I listened to this album when it came out without really knowing much about Coldplay except their hit singles, and it became one of the best albums of 2015 and of the 21st century as a whole. The album has easily enough ups and downs to make it interesting, and the tracks each have enough diversity from one another that you don'tDefinitely the best album that Coldplay has ever produced. I listened to this album when it came out without really knowing much about Coldplay except their hit singles, and it became one of the best albums of 2015 and of the 21st century as a whole. The album has easily enough ups and downs to make it interesting, and the tracks each have enough diversity from one another that you don't get bored. All in all, A Head Full of Dreams is definitely the number one album for Coldplay.… Expand
  18. rewant
    Dec 4, 2015
    10
    This album is a full circle and back again to their roots(partially). This album envokes all emotions inside me, especially faith and hope...that everything's not lost.
    AHFOD-9/10 Sounds like vintage U2 but with a bit more melody and falsetto's. But this track proves that coldplay hasn't forgotten it's roots.
    Birds- 8.5/10 A decent track. Hymn for the weekend- 10/10 One word:    This album is a full circle and back again to their roots(partially). This album envokes all emotions inside me, especially faith and hope...that everything's not lost.
    AHFOD-9/10 Sounds like vintage U2 but with a bit more melody and falsetto's. But this track proves that coldplay hasn't forgotten it's roots.
    Birds- 8.5/10 A decent track.
    Hymn for the weekend- 10/10 One word: heavenly....
    Everglow- 10/10 yet another powerful ballad.
    Adventure of a lifetime- 9/10 the guitar riff proves it all.
    Fun- 7/10 Okay..
    Kaleidoscope- 10/10 It's weird how a 2 minute interlude can move you to tears.
    Army of One- 10/10 the beat drop is so cool! Amazing one.
    Amazing day- 9/10
    Colour spectrum-9/10
    Up&Up- 11/10 THE BEST! i can't define it in words, infact no one can.
    X marks the spot- 7/10 a bit of a letdown...but still better than hotline bling.    … Expand
  19. thedarklordya
    Dec 4, 2015
    9
    One their greatest albums and a true comeback for a very great band.
    Notable Songs
    -'Adventure of a lifetime' excellent pop song
    -'Hymn for the Weekend" featuring beyonce was one of the band's best ever songs
    -'Everglow' very moving ballad
  20. comeonhomeboi23
    Dec 7, 2015
    10
    Serene, uplifting, dream-lile, and colorful. The catchiest Coldplay album to date, yet there is something special about it. From Hymn to the Weekend to Everglow, this album is jam-packed with beautiful synths, harmonizing pianos, and wonderful production work. Welcome back, Coldplay!
  21. kevin3stacks
    Dec 5, 2015
    10
    This is a great album. Very enjoyable to listen to, sway and dance. look out for Birds, Hymn for the weekend, fun and amazing day. The production team do a great job on this one as well. Its definitely not the strongest album coldplay has but its worthy a spot in the discography
  22. chrisp1999
    Dec 4, 2015
    10
    Another new direction for Coldplay, and a excellent one at that. From the premiere of Adventure of a Lifetime, I knew that this would be something unexpected from Coldplay - an album that is just full of joy and one that makes you want to dance! It's a step towards pop, but that is no bad thing. They've made it their own as they seem to do with anything they try, and succeeded in that! IAnother new direction for Coldplay, and a excellent one at that. From the premiere of Adventure of a Lifetime, I knew that this would be something unexpected from Coldplay - an album that is just full of joy and one that makes you want to dance! It's a step towards pop, but that is no bad thing. They've made it their own as they seem to do with anything they try, and succeeded in that! I won't rank all the songs individually, but you can almost tell that this is what the band has been aiming for, with amazing bass lines, beautiful guitar lines, booming drums, and of course, those Chris Martin vocals we've come to love. Some might say it's a little bit cheesy at times, but I like that.… Expand
  23. Twisty
    Dec 6, 2015
    7
    I’ve just noticed that the covers of Coldplay’s albums (at least the last 4 ones), match really well with the overall sound of every project. Not saying I really like them, but the colours, forms and aesthetics define what the album will sound like. Viva La Vida had that Delacroix painting of the French Revolution that was epic as for example the homonime song, Viva La Vida. Mylo XylotoI’ve just noticed that the covers of Coldplay’s albums (at least the last 4 ones), match really well with the overall sound of every project. Not saying I really like them, but the colours, forms and aesthetics define what the album will sound like. Viva La Vida had that Delacroix painting of the French Revolution that was epic as for example the homonime song, Viva La Vida. Mylo Xyloto had a lot of colours and graffitis in the cover, same as I relate the sound, really colourful, with a lot of elements and maybe too much production, and the graffitis symbolize the more young, modern and changed sound of that CD. Then, Ghost Stories and the minimalist cover. The peaceful dark blue match with the more intimate, melancholic and calmed sound (except for A Sky Full of Stars, still don’t get the point of putting that EDM **** in that album, also it would had fitted better in this album). And we’re here with AHFOD, with a cover that breaks with the minimalism of the last one, and again adds a lot of colors that reveal the sound itself: more happy vibes, more lightful and danceful songs, a lot of synths and electronic elements… everything reminds a little bit to Mylo Xyloto, but this time with funk and dance. But the cover kinda reveals one of the problems of this: too much elements. There is an excess of production. Also it seems there is not a well defined direction in the album, a problem of combining producers of different genders on the same disc. Matter of fact, the only parts I really like are these kind of interludes. I think AHFOD is far from the level of Mylo Xyloto but, you know what? I don’t blame Coldplay after all. This album is conceived to be played and performed live. That’s why Ghost Stories didn’t have a tour. Songs like “Magic” or “Midnight” are not adequate to be played live at all. And this album is actually a right move in practical terms. It is an enjoyable album if you know, as I did, what you’re expecting to listen here. And I was prepared to listen another different Coldplay, moving even further than the sound of their first 3 albums. There are no good lyrics in this album cuz they don’t even care. Coldplay made this album for the temporary joy, not as a permanent reminder in this band’s legacy.… Expand
  24. SidNimmo1998
    Dec 4, 2015
    10
    This album has been amazing from the start from when we heard it, I find Adventure of a lifetime as a song which could always make you happy and same for the album it is just a great piece of thank you to the fans, hopefully Coldplay won't be gone for long because the music they produce is just out of this world, a true British band indeed.
  25. jonvlahiotis
    Feb 6, 2016
    10
    This new album by Coldplay is **** amazing. All the songs are catchy, fun and really inspiring. These critic review are so **** stupid; this deserves a way higher score. All the songs in this album are amazing and I will never get tired of it. This music is not only a new and exciting but it also still sounds like the Coldplay we have listened to and loved forever.
  26. lHarryl
    Dec 8, 2015
    10
    It's Coldplay, music turns into magic. What's so incredible about them is, they've never dono anything like the albuns before, such as Parachutes, Viva La Vida. It's pretty much a journey where they can print their own mark into anything. I'm glad Coldplay's still around.
  27. BanjoBeta
    Dec 7, 2015
    10
    One of the better albums of 2015.
    More of a pop album from Coldplay. But if merging Pop with alternative rock is a thing, Coldplay did it the best way possible.
  28. Goodwill
    Dec 4, 2015
    9
    Martin and the gang have a head full of dreams. These dreams are manifested in the tracklist being every type of song they've ever wanted to make. This culmination of the bands dreams accompanied by their friends and family is the definition of Coldplay in the most literal sense. This is admirable and, of course, very catchy.
  29. A7sus4
    Dec 7, 2015
    7
    Sounds nice from front to back. A good companion album for Ghost Stories which I also really enjoyed. The album actually does a nice job of sounding a little bit like all of Coldplay's previous soundscapes in different parts. Not disappointed at all.
  30. silverslimer
    Dec 5, 2015
    9
    Before purchasing the album today, I had read some reviews from critics. They all seemed to be fairly negative and I was wondering whether a purchase made any sense even though I had every other Coldplay album. Then, I watched "Adventure of a Lifetime" on Youtube and was immediately hooked to the sound. I just finished listening to the whole album: one 5-star song "Adventure of aBefore purchasing the album today, I had read some reviews from critics. They all seemed to be fairly negative and I was wondering whether a purchase made any sense even though I had every other Coldplay album. Then, I watched "Adventure of a Lifetime" on Youtube and was immediately hooked to the sound. I just finished listening to the whole album: one 5-star song "Adventure of a Lifetime", two 3-star songs, two deleted (the 1-minute tunes) and the rest 4-stars. It's actually quite strong and one of the better albums they've come up with. If anything, it's a very happy addition to their collection.… Expand
  31. FredinToronto
    Dec 12, 2015
    7
    It's almost impossible to find an album today with more than 1 or 2 good songs on it. Coldplay manages to give us 3 or 4 earworms. As Taylor Swift says, "haters gonna hate, hate, hate".
  32. payohday
    Dec 9, 2015
    8
    A lot of the negativity for this album seems to come from fans previous expectations. Coldplay has become an ever-evolving band who seem to change style ever album now. While I would say this album is not the new Mylo Xyloto, I still very much enjoy it. The songs are catchy, uplifting, and fun. Everglow has become one of my personal favorites by them. If you go in with an open mind, IA lot of the negativity for this album seems to come from fans previous expectations. Coldplay has become an ever-evolving band who seem to change style ever album now. While I would say this album is not the new Mylo Xyloto, I still very much enjoy it. The songs are catchy, uplifting, and fun. Everglow has become one of my personal favorites by them. If you go in with an open mind, I think you'll enjoy it.… Expand
  33. diegonelli
    Dec 11, 2015
    8
    I reaaaally liked this album, it's so fresh and catchy, and the songs have quiet and nice sounds. Obviously this album is better than their previous project ''Ghost Stories'' but not as good as ''Parachutes'', ''A Rush Of Blood To The Head'' or ''Viva La Vida''. 8 for me.
  34. Movie-Freak-KK
    Jan 9, 2016
    10
    SERIOUSLY ? 60/100 IN METACRITIC ? ARE YOU GUYZ NUTS ? Listen to track like Everglow, Hymn For The Weekend, Amazing Day, Fun, Up&up and Army Of One.Coldplay simply nailed everything, The vocal and lyrics are amazing !
  35. wildheart
    Dec 6, 2015
    7
    To appreciate this new Coldplay's album, you must definitely have in mind that the British band evolved a lot since "A Rush Of Blood To The Head" (to most, their best album to date) and "Parachutes". Following the disappointing 2014 "Ghost Stories", Chris Martin and his friends bring new material to the old and usual one on "A Head Full Of Dreams".

    Yes, some ballads are classic    To appreciate this new Coldplay's album, you must definitely have in mind that the British band evolved a lot since "A Rush Of Blood To The Head" (to most, their best album to date) and "Parachutes". Following the disappointing 2014 "Ghost Stories", Chris Martin and his friends bring new material to the old and usual one on "A Head Full Of Dreams".

    Yes, some ballads are classic post-"Viva La Vida" Coldplay. Yes, the album doesn't have a lot of outstanding hit records on it. Yes, it might seem at first like everything sounds the same. To be absolutely honest, "A Head Full Of Dreams" isn't very surprising. Coldplay called some guests here and there and none of the collaborations (except maybe one - I'll talk about it later) really bring something to the record. But what makes "A Head Full Of Dreams" a much better album than the previous one is that it is a much more creative one. By adding funk and fun, colorful tones and significant guests (Gwyneth Paltrow, Barack Obama, Noel Gallagher ...) to their usual artistry, the band offers something really joyful and refreshing to their fans. Something you'll like to listen to for the next few months.

    The ballads "Amazing Days" and "Everglow" are typical from Coldplay but they prove that the magic still works. The emotional track "Army Of One" is the perfect indie pop song you'd expect from the band. The only real surprise might be the Beyoncé-assisted "Hymn For The Weekend", the proof that once in while Coldplay can create an unexpected and potentially successful hit record. On a "A Head Full Of Dreams", it is an unique and uplifting party anthem.

    So yes, "A Head Full Of Dreams" is an unsurprising album, and it will definitely be a huge disappointment to those still hoping for "A Rush Of Blood To The Head" 2.0, but Coldplay still manage to find some ways to be creative, and even though this creativity may seem minimal on most songs, it is obvious on some others - the best songs of the albums, and the few ones we'll remember.

    This is clearly not a good "final" album, but something tells me it's not, so let's get to the facts : it's a very enjoyable and fun record. If you're a Coldplay fan or you just enjoy listening to colorful indie music, "A Head Full Of Dreams" will be the perfect album for your winter 2015-2016. But if you expect something musically outstanding and complex, you truly should forget Coldplay's name one and for all.    … Expand
  36. dalton_brewster
    Dec 12, 2015
    7
    "A Head Full of Coldplay"
    This is a way better album than Ghost Stories. But that isn't a phenomenal feet. Non the less it's like a Mylo Xlyto sequal. Highlight Tracks: Adventure of A Lifetime, Army of One, and Fun (Feat. Tove Lo)
  37. Richypaisano
    Dec 8, 2015
    8
    La verdad este disco en comparación con ghost stories se nota que Coldplay mejoró mucho la verdad disfruté mucho este álbum, buenos temas, buenas letras, la mayoría es muy bueno, mi canción favorita es Everglow
  38. itsmoregg
    Dec 13, 2015
    7
    I see the evolution in the band, but I saw some slippage. The album came good, with participation as Tove Lo and Beyonce, but I missed those holdings in the music itself.
    Much has been speculated saying that the last album, if I think they close this cycle very well. The album is not strenuous, calm music and lyrics that address the proposal.
    Of course, I could improve. But I liked these    I see the evolution in the band, but I saw some slippage. The album came good, with participation as Tove Lo and Beyonce, but I missed those holdings in the music itself.
    Much has been speculated saying that the last album, if I think they close this cycle very well. The album is not strenuous, calm music and lyrics that address the proposal.
    Of course, I could improve. But I liked these traits from other genres they brought. I confess that not enjoyed the last album of them, "Ghost Stories" and didn't expect much from "A Head Full of Dreams". But they did a good job. Congratulations Coldplay.    … Expand
  39. zackdunaway
    Mar 5, 2016
    10
    This album is lyrically genius. Like any album, it takes a while to grow on you. These songs are truly addicting. Best songs are definitely "Fun" "A Head Full of Dreams" and "Up&Up". The album's theme really does match the sound. Pop, colorful, fun.
  40. SumairB
    Jan 27, 2018
    8
    Going into this album, I had some expectations: it should be a bit livelier, more colourful and more visceral than their previous record, Ghost Stories (although the album's cover art pretty much gave me an answer beforehand), but I didn't want it to have the electronic excesses of Mylo Xyloto (it's a great album, but if they make a sequel, it won't be anywhere near as good as MX. ColdplayGoing into this album, I had some expectations: it should be a bit livelier, more colourful and more visceral than their previous record, Ghost Stories (although the album's cover art pretty much gave me an answer beforehand), but I didn't want it to have the electronic excesses of Mylo Xyloto (it's a great album, but if they make a sequel, it won't be anywhere near as good as MX. Coldplay took a risk and made a very experimental pop album, and it worked; that doesn't guarantee that a follow-up will).
    I was pleased by the production on a lot of these songs, and how organic they sound. You can tell that they've been made by real instruments, not by pressing a bunch of buttons on a computer. The album kicks off with an uplifting title track that was made for the arena; no wonder Coldplay opens all of their live shows with it. "Birds" has a lovely guitar melody, and is a pretty tune that bursts with colour on the chorus. "Hymn for the Weekend" brings a lot of energy, Chris Martin and Beyonce sound good together, but for me it falls a little flat due to the sub-par lyrics, and the whole song feeling like it's trying a bit too hard to make you want to dance.
    Things get very melancholic on "Everglow", a lovely piano ballad in which Martin sings about a constant source of light and positivity in his life. It's a poignant moment that you just want to soak up. "Adventure of a Lifetime" and "Fun" follow, two vibrant tracks with forgettable lyrics. The former, also the lead single, fizzes with energy and has nice guitar work while the latter, featuring Tove Lo, is a slightly slower pop tune about... well, having fun. They're decent tracks, but they feel more like B-sides from Mylo Xyloto, especially "Fun".
    The subdued pseudo-interlude (regular interludes don't last 2 minutes) "Kaleidoscope" has something very alluring about it; I can't quite put my finger on it. There's something about a dramatic reading of an introspective poem over a soaring piano melody that I like so much. Barack Obama sings "Amazing Grace" on this one, too! "Army of One" explodes with synth, powerful vocals which get chopped up in some parts, and booming percussion. I love it. The hidden track here sounds like it was placed there by mistake (it sounds completely different from the main track), but it just about works. It's a suitable comedown from the dizzying heights of "Army of One".
    Coldplay grab the 'gratitude' dial and turn it all the way up on "Amazing Day", a very pretty guitar-led tune which features the perfect concert sing-along moment in the bridge. Martin really delivers with his vocal performance here. The interlude "Colour Spectrum" is a calm medley of some of the previous tracks, although if you're going to have an interlude when there's only one track left, you need to be sure you're setting up one hell of a finale. That is exactly what "Up&Up" is. Coldplay save the best for last with a dramatic rock ballad, with lyrics on hope and optimism, a triumphant guitar solo from Jonny Buckland and a second one from guest Noel Gallagher. When Martin says it's "the song that they've been waiting to write for fifteen years", I don't doubt it. The eerie "believe in love" coda at the end does a wonderful job of bringing the album to a close.    … Expand
  41. sebastianglz
    Apr 27, 2016
    7
    'A Head Full of Dreams' may be lowest Coldplay album musically talking, but it show us they can do any genre. The lyrics and the emotions are well played, but making it more electro-based makes this album worthless than the others.
  42. savioeu
    Oct 4, 2017
    7
    They're probably the rock band that the pop fans like the most and this album it's going to increase this status, specially with the likes of Beyoncé and Tove Lo being guest artists. Some happiness is always good, even if the album has some depressive moments.
  43. GabrielRabelo
    Feb 5, 2016
    10
    Esse álbum fica no meu top 10 de melhores álbuns de 2015, porém, não é o melhor do Coldplay, achei meio que pequena a participação da Tove Lo em "Fun", os vocais da Beyoncé super combinaram com a música em "Hymn For The Weekend", achei a melodia das faixas ótimas, amei a arte do CD, mas eu só não dou um 10 por causa das, digamos, "poucas músicas", quando acabou a 11ª e última música euEsse álbum fica no meu top 10 de melhores álbuns de 2015, porém, não é o melhor do Coldplay, achei meio que pequena a participação da Tove Lo em "Fun", os vocais da Beyoncé super combinaram com a música em "Hymn For The Weekend", achei a melodia das faixas ótimas, amei a arte do CD, mas eu só não dou um 10 por causa das, digamos, "poucas músicas", quando acabou a 11ª e última música eu fiquei tipo, "tá, mas cadê o resto", não sei se a ordem das músicas estavam boas ou se "Up&Up" é uma boa música para encerrar o álbum, mas apesar dos apesares, gostei da maioria, por isso, um 9.… Expand
  44. whooosaah
    Mar 2, 2016
    8
    Another colorful album from Coldplay. They already trying to make colorful album like Mylo Xyloto, and the result was less than compelling. When they release AHFOD, i've got a bad feeling about it. But, i was wrong. Indeed, it's not the best from Coldplay, but it's way better than Mylo Xyloto (in my opinion). The songs are ear-catching, only Kaleidoscope, Birds, and Amazing Day that aAnother colorful album from Coldplay. They already trying to make colorful album like Mylo Xyloto, and the result was less than compelling. When they release AHFOD, i've got a bad feeling about it. But, i was wrong. Indeed, it's not the best from Coldplay, but it's way better than Mylo Xyloto (in my opinion). The songs are ear-catching, only Kaleidoscope, Birds, and Amazing Day that a little bit annoying to me. But overall, it's nice to see that finally Coldplay success to make a great colorful album. This is just my opinion, what's yours?… Expand
  45. Temuujin
    Dec 17, 2015
    9
    I would agree that it is not as good as we expected from Coldplay. It is absolutely not their best album so far. They are still capable of making a far better album than previous ones. On a scale of 10, I would give 8.5 for A Head Full of Dreams.
  46. CharlieBetterIs
    Dec 24, 2015
    9
    A Head Full Of Dreams é o melhor trabalho do Coldplay desde o Mylo Xyloto. O material não supera bíblias como A Rush of Blood To The Head, X&Y e Viva La Vida, mas é um ótimo trabalho e mostra toda a versatilidade do Coldplay. Nesse disco, é mostrado o lado mais pop da banda, sem perder o rock (que está extremamente camuflado, mas que dá para perceber se for muito atento).

    Pontos altos:    A Head Full Of Dreams é o melhor trabalho do Coldplay desde o Mylo Xyloto. O material não supera bíblias como A Rush of Blood To The Head, X&Y e Viva La Vida, mas é um ótimo trabalho e mostra toda a versatilidade do Coldplay. Nesse disco, é mostrado o lado mais pop da banda, sem perder o rock (que está extremamente camuflado, mas que dá para perceber se for muito atento).

    Pontos altos: Up&Up, Amazing Day, Birds
    Pontos baixos: Colorum Spectrum, Fun, Everglow    … Expand
  47. Deivide
    Jan 2, 2016
    9
    "A Head Full Of Dreams" with production Digital Divide, Rik Simpson, Stargate. The result is a risky album that hour makes us have good of nostalgia and old alternative rock band, other makes us want to dream and travel through the dreams of Chris Martin and also land in a world never seen before and shout for all to hear that the trip was amazing. Amazing Day ...
  48. ellytheverypro
    Apr 24, 2016
    7
    the best guitar solo that coldplay have ever done (perhaps the ONLY solo) was done by another artist (Noel Gallagher). hooray.

    they have gone full pop and mainstream - however the songs were quite catchy. wouldnt mind listening to this during a long boring car trip
  49. alejandro970
    Dec 24, 2017
    8
    Maybe has not all the magic of A rush of blood..., but songs like Hymn for a weekend gives it a kaleidoscopic touch thatr makes it enjoyable. Fans will appreciate.
  50. 100tifiko
    Dec 31, 2017
    8
    No pienso comparar los discos anteriores con este, ya que ni hace falta, son muy diferentes, pero eso no quita que el sello de calidad Coldplay sigue estando y hace de este album muy disfrutable.
  51. HyanHythalo
    Jul 26, 2017
    10
    It seems to be exactly what it is. Many people say that an artist's album cover can describe exactly the songs it contains in it, this is the case of a full head of dreams, colorful, cheerful, and brings a message, like all Coldplay albums. It's scary to a point, when you're accustomed to the band's old-sounding, but with time you'll go to accepting this phase of Coldplay and so enjoy yourIt seems to be exactly what it is. Many people say that an artist's album cover can describe exactly the songs it contains in it, this is the case of a full head of dreams, colorful, cheerful, and brings a message, like all Coldplay albums. It's scary to a point, when you're accustomed to the band's old-sounding, but with time you'll go to accepting this phase of Coldplay and so enjoy your new jobs. 10/10… Expand
  52. musicreviews7
    Aug 4, 2017
    7
    Not one of Coldplays most glorious releases, still far better then most of the music that is produced nowadays. It's like they've adapted the mainstream sound of pop but there's still that lovely feeling of warmth and intimacy like always in Coldplays music.
  53. Stefffan
    Aug 8, 2017
    10
    Sure, this isn't "old Coldplay" but is certanly great. They are following modern music, which is normal thing, but you can feel that "Coldplay feeling" in every song. Deserves much better reviews and score.
  54. MacsMusic
    May 9, 2018
    7
    AHFOD is an attractive, highly-enjoyable album. This is mostly due to the consistently interesting, original modern melodic pop-rock music, which works very well throughout the album. The music on this album is warm, interesting, engaging, and very pleasant for the most part. The music works very well with the vocals and the optimistic, warm lyrics. "Head," "Hymn," "Adventure," "Army" andAHFOD is an attractive, highly-enjoyable album. This is mostly due to the consistently interesting, original modern melodic pop-rock music, which works very well throughout the album. The music on this album is warm, interesting, engaging, and very pleasant for the most part. The music works very well with the vocals and the optimistic, warm lyrics. "Head," "Hymn," "Adventure," "Army" and "UpandUp" all sound great in their own ways. "Everglow" has great piano-pop infused music, and "Birds" has a warm, pleasant energy to it.

    Lyrically, this album is nearly as impressive, and occasionally bad. "Hymn" has pretty terrible lyrics, along with (to a lesser extent) "Fun," and the second half as "Army." Still, the lyrics are rarely downright offensive or hard to listen to. Lastly, the vocals on this album are solid, and blend very well with the music and lyrics.

    AHFOD us an engaging, vibrant, warm, occasionally magical album in terms of music. It is not terrible lyrically, but it's not very interesting or original. All in all, I really do enjoy this album.    … Expand
  55. NolanLundgaard
    Mar 27, 2020
    8
    A Head Full of Dreams by Coldplay: 7.07

    A Head Full of Dreams: 1 :) Birds: 1 :) Hymn For the Weekend: 1 Everglow: 1 Adventure of a Lifetime: 1 :) Fun (feat. Tove Lo): 1 :) Kaleidoscope: 0.5 Army of One: 0.5 (AoO=1, T=0) Amazing Day: 1 Colour Spectrum: 0.5 Up & Up: 0.75 9.25/11 ~ .841 -> 7.07 Coldplay’s A Head Full of Dreams is a really good album. About ⅔ of its songs    A Head Full of Dreams by Coldplay: 7.07

    A Head Full of Dreams: 1 :)
    Birds: 1 :)
    Hymn For the Weekend: 1
    Everglow: 1
    Adventure of a Lifetime: 1 :)
    Fun (feat. Tove Lo): 1 :)
    Kaleidoscope: 0.5
    Army of One: 0.5 (AoO=1, T=0)
    Amazing Day: 1
    Colour Spectrum: 0.5
    Up & Up: 0.75

    9.25/11 ~ .841 -> 7.07

    Coldplay’s A Head Full of Dreams is a really good album. About ⅔ of its songs are outstanding (A Head Full of Dreams, Adventure of a Lifetime, etc.) but it also has some weird instrumental ones. I guess it’s pretty cool that they were included, but at the same time they kinda distract from the good stuff. Plus, the surprise track they included at the end of Army of One (which I really liked) was absolutely horrible and seemed like no effort was out into the making of it, lowering the score that Army of One would have gotten. Besides that, I don’t have any complaints. A Head Full of Dreams is a great album, and makes me excited for the new Coldplay stuff that’s coming out next month! Highlights: A Head Full of Dreams, Birds, Hymn For the Weekend, Everglow, Adventure of a Lifetime, Fun (feat. Tove Lo), and Amazing Day.    … Expand
  56. MathButera
    May 28, 2019
    10
    The best album of them... they just inspiring me to be better person and love everything.
  57. Arnego
    Sep 14, 2019
    10
    Coldplay and I is I is I is I a masterpiece lot of to the get go on a trip to down the and я ну ну раноше раньше было все равно в час и
  58. Whyhelder
    Sep 24, 2020
    7
    Their least good album. I feel like they just made it for touring. They made it thinking of the tour - u can feel it in the whole album. It’s great though bc it’s the complete opposite from their previous one (darkness and sadness X happiness and colorness).
  59. FrancyCiak
    Jun 5, 2022
    10
    For me, this is the best Coldplay album with Ghost Stories!!! This album is so underrated...

Awards & Rankings

14
#14 Most Discussed Album of 2015
14
#14 Most Shared Album of 2015

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
60

Mixed or average reviews - based on 27 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 27
  2. Mixed: 17 out of 27
  3. Negative: 2 out of 27
  1. DIY Magazine
    Dec 16, 2015
    40
    Instead of its wide-eyed optimism rubbing off onto others, this album has the effect of canned laughter bouncing off the walls. It’s a hundred nutritional yoghurts being mushed into bland liquid nothingness.
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  2. Drowned In Sound
    Dec 14, 2015
    30
    The head feels weighed down with unresolved torment, the smile forced and awkward, the colours garish and messily-applied.
    Read full review
  3. Clash Music
    Dec 11, 2015
    40
    It’s clear that Coldplay retain their thirst, their passion for making music--it’s merely a shame that it results in such polite noises.
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