Coldplay has a new unofficial fifth member since teaming up with Ash frontman Tim Wheeler during sessions for their latest album.
According to Contact Music Chris Martin and his band mates have been labouring intensely in their north London studio on the follow-up to their 2009 album 'Viva La Vida'.
Recently they were joined by Wheeler and a source said: "Chris has always had a soft spot for Ash. They were quite close in the early days and have shared a number of bills over the years.
"He admires Tim as a songwriter, especially his brilliant way with melodies, so he didn't think twice about asking him to get involved."
Ash had a string of hits including 'Girl from Mars' and 'Kung Fu' and Wheeler's input, along with producer Brian Eno's continued supervision, could produce a very interesting release.
Coldplay will also headline this year's Glastonbury festival.
