It was released on 15 May 2009 as a free download on their website,[1] with physical copies being distributed in all of the succeeding dates from the Viva la Vida Tour.

[4] Regarding the limited release, Chris Martin stated that the purpose was to show gratitude: "Although it's live, it's supposed to be a real album, part of our canon.

[5] The band also noted that "playing live is what we love" and that the album is "a thank you to our fans", who are "the people who give us a reason to do it and make it happen".

[1] The material used was "recorded in over 101 locations", with producer Dan Green picking the tracks he thought were the best along with Coldplay's creative director Phil Harvey.

[3] Stephen M. Deusner from Pitchfork wrote a positive review for the album, noting that it "showcases a band much more comfortable and commanding on stage" in comparison to Live 2003.