New Coldplay Album Inspired by Graffiti Artists and Anti-Nazi Resistance Movement

Posted on Nov 26th 2010 6:54AM by Andrew Kerr
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Andreas Rentz, Getty Images

Chris Martin has identified New York graffiti artists and an anti-Nazi resistance group as contributing influences on the next Coldplay album.

The follow-up to 'Viva la Vida' is, according to Martin, about freedom of expression and was inspired by those who have spoken out amidst "negative surroundings."

Speaking in Q magazine (via the Guardian), Martin revealed his respect for those who make a stand, especially given his own self-confessed conformist ways. He said, "The ideas come from graffiti art of the 70s in New York, where people were expressing themselves with paint. I've spent a lot of my life playing it a bit safe or conforming to something, even though I didn't agree with it. So I have respect and admiration for people who don't."

Martin also singled out the White Rose movement, the group of German students who rallied against Hitler's regime but ultimately lost their battle at the hands of the Gestapo.

The singer continued, "It's about being free to express yourself among negative surroundings. Being able to speak out or follow your passion, even if everybody seems against it."

Currently putting the finishing touches to the record in a London studio, Martin described the album as "group-y" and "guitar-y" and that with the help of producer Brian Eno, the four-piece had been "trying some risky things."

Adding to the expectancy that surrounds the new album, the singer said, "In five years we'll be in our late 30s. You have to have your best work done by then."