The games are approaching. The most ruthless and inhumane tournament is about to embark on its 75th bloodbath. The second installment of "The Hunger Games" film series is only three months away, and as the days dwindle down, more and more details provide fans with a clear picture of what they're getting themselves into. While Katniss Everdeen and her District 12 counterpart Peeta remain the center of attention, there are other components to the film that are equally important.
In most recent news, Lionsgate and Republic Records announce that Coldplay will release their first track titled "Atlas" from the "Catching Fire" soundtrack on August 26. The release marks the first time Coldplay has ever recorded an original song for a motion picture.
"I have great respect and admiration for Coldplay, and we are thrilled with how well they have connected to the themes and ideas within the film," said director Francis Lawrence. "Their unwavering passion and excitement for the project elevated the collaboration even further, and we can't wait to share the music with audiences around the world."
"We are so honored that Coldplay, one of the iconic rock bands of our generation will perform the first song out on the new soundtrack," said Lionsgate's Head of Film Music Tracy McKnight. "Knowing that Chris Martin is a fan of the books makes this even more meaningful. The Coldplay single underscores the stature of recording artists we've assembled for this powerful soundtrack."
The first "Hunger Games" soundtrack, The Hunger Games: Songs from District 12 and Beyond, won a Grammy Award for Best Score Soundtrack and dominated the charts. With Coldplay on board for the "Catching Fire score, the film is already on track for a repeat Gramy.
The song will be available via iTunes and other digital retailers on August 26.