Following the release of their latest album Wildness in May 2018, Snow Patrol are back on the road after a 7 year hiatus. Saturday 26th January was their only, and sold out, night at The O2 Arena in London.
They opened the show in spectacular style with three classic tracks; Take Back the City, Chocolate & Crack the Shutters.
The band then went onto perform their two singles from Wildness: Empress & Don’t Give In. It was an exciting moment after hearing these songs loads over the past 7 months and to finally hear them performed live was a magical moment and their live versions did not disappoint.
Also, a Snow Patrol gig wouldn’t be a Snow Patrol gig without an ultimate sing-along. The crowd were in fine voice singing along to Open Your Eyes, Run, Shut Your Eyes & Chasing Cars
The most impressive part of the show was when they performed Life on Earth, the first track on their new album. The fact it took lead singer, Gary Lightbody, 5 years to write, meant he wanted to share the artistic detail put into the song and make sure that the 4 minute song was worth the half a decade of work. Not only did the song sound incredible, the graphics of the Earth illustrated the song perfectly.
They also played some well loved, powerful and beautiful tracks including Make This Go On Forever, The Lightning Strike & You Could Be Happy (which always reminds me of the foam party scene in Gavin & Stacey).
The final track before the encore was the upbeat, guitar heavy, You’re All I Have. After the encore they played What If This Is All the Love You Ever Get?; a graceful piece of music performed on piano and sung by Gary Lightbody. It is a splendid and moving song but a surprise choice as the penultimate track of the night.
The closing track was of course the most positive and exhilarating Snow Patrol song of them all, Just Say Yes.
The atmosphere was outstanding and Gary Lightbody was blown away and touched by the turn out and reception they received after being absent for so long.
In addition, a mention to their amazing support act, Kodaline. An Irish rock quartet who arrived onto the music scene back in 2013. Their set mostly consisted of tracks from their debut album In a Perfect World including Brand New Day, Ready, One Day & my personal favourite High Hopes. So we were lucky enough to watch two incredible bands for the price of one.
Perfect way to begin my 2019 live music campaign!
I went to see Snow patrol at Arena Birmingham and thought they were great. Also loved seeing Kodaline as well as I have been a fan of them pretty much since 2013. Great night 🙂