In theory this should be a gem - two of the hottest artists of our time uniting for one epic track. In practice, Coldplay have certainly gone off the boil in recent times and Rihanna has stagnated with a string of complacent dancehall tracks.
So what of Princess of China? Surprisingly enough, the theory is put into practice, resulting in a track that takes the best of both artists: a collaboration that is their best work in years. Lyrically this is far from profound, detailing a break-up with fairytale imagery narrated by both sides of the coin: "I could've been a Princess, you'd be a King / Could've had a castle, and wore a ring / But no, you let me go". As ever, Martin prefers "oohs" and "aahs" to actual words, but this does allow for some sing-along hooks. It's the music that shines though - synth heavy for Rihanna, yet retaining some heavy guitar and drums to provide power and momentum as well as the signature piano, continuing the epic feel Coldplay have been striving for recently. It also stretches Rihanna vocally, both technically and emotionally - a bonus to hear considering she normally settles for lazy-sexy. The production may have a glossy sheen but it's a successful collision of two opposing music worlds.
Ultimately Princess Of China is a decent pop track that should satiate the appetites of both sets of fans. Perhaps there is hope for 'Mylo Xyloto' after all?
4/5
(NB. As below, the only videos available are of shoddy quality - I'm assuming this isn't representative of the final mix)
