Lead singer Chris Martin said the tracks were partly inspired by wondering what musicians across the universe are like.

There is one lengthy exception to the “more of the same, but worse” vibe that dominates the record: The 10-minute-long “Coloratura” retains Coldplay’s rock-pop origins, but intriguingly ventures into realms outside the band’s comfort zone

Martin says it best in “Higher Power”: “I’m like a broken record / I’m like a broken record /And I’m not playing right.”