If you're a Coldplay fan, you were probably as excited as I was to hear the first outstanding single from X&Y. "Speed Of Sound" is as good as Coldplay gets, sounding like an updated version of "Clocks."
What makes this release essential, though, are the b-sides. Sure, you may have already picked up the album, but you'll need "Things I Don't Understand" and "Proof." Both songs, without question, could have made the track list for X&Y.
"Things I Don't Understand" is an uptempo jam, very reminiscent of New Order's "Regret." In fact, it's probably one of their strongest b-sides to date, along with "One I Love" from the "In My Place" single. According to Coldplay.com, the track was scheduled to be on X&Y, but it was pulled at the last minute.
"Proof" is another ballad, and although it's not the best song they've ever recorded, it would probably be album material for most other bands.
If you're new to collecting Coldplay singles, this is one of the best to start with. "Things I Don't Understand" alone makes it a worthy purchase. I would also recommend checking out the singles from A Rush Of Blood To The Head, which all have excellent b-sides.
