To celebrate the release of Coldplay's fourth full length album, the hotly anticipated, Brian Eno-produced Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends we look deeper into the world of Coldplay with a one-hour special. MAX Masters takes a retrospective look at the bands' career from their humble beginnings to now through archival footage and new, exclusive interviews. Throughout the month MAX will also keep Coldplay videos on high rotation.

Coldplay are a London-based English rock band known for their anthemic arrangements and introspective lyrics that tug on the heartstrings. Vocalist/pianist/guitarist Chris Martin met lead guitarist Jonny Buckland at University College London in 1996 and began the long process of forming the band. With the addition of bassist Guy Berryman, and drummer/multi-instrumentalist Will Champion, the lineup was solidified in1998. Drawing on influential artists like U2 and R.E.M., the band produced two EPs before signing a five album deal with Parlophone Records.

Coldplay shot to fame with the success of their breakthrough 2000 single, Yellow and the accompanying album, Parachutes – which both landed at a time when UK fans were aching for grand rock with soul. The album earned the fledgling band a Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album. The band toured the world extensively in support of the album. Coldplay's next record, 2003's A Rush Of Blood To The Head was equally lauded by critics and fans alike, spawning several hit singles including Clocks and In My Place. Their third disc, 2005's X & Y became the UK's best selling record that year.

Their latest album, which Coldplay have been hard at work on since late 2006, is said to reveal a more experimental side to the four-piece. Produced by electronica innovator Brian Eno, the record takes it's name from a Frida Kahlo painting and was recorded in part in Barcelona, Spain.

Beyond their music, Coldplay are also advocates of a range of social and political causes, lending their support to Oxfam's Make Trade Fair campaign and Amnesty International, among other charity groups. The group has also performed at fundraising events including Band Aid 20, Live 8, and the Teenage Cancer Trust.