In a new interview with Brazilian television network Globo, Chris Martin said that he’s hoping for a December 2010 release for Coldplay’s fifth studio album. He might want to check in with EMI, however, before making such statements again and causing fans to start joyously singing like Roman cavalry choirs—because the label seems to have a differing opinion on when the record will drop.

Martin stated that the album will be out “hopefully this Christmas.” And when asked whether it would be Coldplay’s final album, the singer planted tongue firmly in cheek and replied, “No. I think we have about 500 more. Seriously, we signed for a lot… We’re owned. We can’t do anything without asking somebody’s permission.”

But this morning it appeared as if Chris Martin didn’t have the permission to speak about the upcoming album. BBC 6 Music News tweeted the following: “Coldplay’s label EMI say reports the band are releasing their fifth studio album by the end of 2010 are not true.”

Tensions have been high at EMI, as the company has been struggling with major debt issues. Because of that, the label was forced to offer up another denial recently—of the rumor that it will sell London’s famous Abbey Road studios.

Perhaps instead of holding Coldplay back from releasing their upcoming album, cash-strapped EMI really ought to be pushing the band to get it out sooner.