Rating:

Coldplay have always been a band full of surprises, from the complete change in sound for 2008's Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends, to writing a cheery song or two for their latest album; Mylo Xyloto. But it has to be said that the announcement that the stadium-fillers were going to be playing a gig at UEA's 1,500 capacity venue as part of Radio 1's Student Tour is certainly one of the more surreal surprises. Ever since the gig was announced pure hysteria has surrounded it, proven by the many people who queued for over 24 hours just to get tickets.

Opening the night was Radio 1 DJ, Zane Lowe, whose show, along with Coldplay's, was being broadcast live on Radio 1. His hour long set did a great job of warming up the crowd, particularly when he played segments of his interview with Coldplay's Chris Martin from earlier on in the day. Zane Lowe was also joined by his Radio 1 colleagues Fearne Cotton and Greg James, the latter guest instigating chants of "UEA is wonderful".

Merely seconds after Zane Lowe had left the stage the lights were dimmed and anticipation filled the room. Emerging onto what was possibly one of the smallest stages they've played on for a long time, Coldplay launched straight into new album opener Hurts Like Heaven, complimented by a back drop that was inspired by Mylo Xyloto's artwork . Following this, the crowd were treated to older favourites in the form of Yellow, Clocks, Fix You and Viva La Vida. The newer songs slotted into the set brilliantly with Charlie Brown and set closer Every Teardrop is a Waterfall forcing joyous energy amongst members of the crowd.

Returning to the stage for a 3 song encore, front man Chris Martin announced to the crowd that Radio 1 were no longer broadcasting the gig but they were going to play on anyway. The encore included more obscure tracks in the form of Green Eyes and Shiver along with another Mylo Xyloto track; Us Against the World.

It was clearly visible from the faces of the band that they were having an amazing time, feelings that were certainly reciprocated by the crowd. Coldplay managed to prove during their fairly short set (just under an hour and a half) that they're still a band on top of their game when it comes to their live set. The UEA hosted what was always going to be a very special evening and Coldplay certainly did not disappoint.

To find out more about BBC Radio 1's Student Tour visit bbc.co.uk/radio1