Absent from the alternative music scene since 2009, Snow Patrol is back with its newly released and long- overdue album, “Fallen Empires.”
Hailing from Northern Ireland, this indie rock band has come a long way. Breaking out of its cocoon, Snow Patrol released this sixth album and collectively decided on a brighter musical direction. Bagging the familiar style heard in its hit single, “Chasing Cars,” listeners may notice the band puts away its previous melancholy feelings for a fresh, upbeat sound.
Throughout the album’s featured single, “Called Out In The Dark,” lead vocalist Gary Lightbody maintains the same rich vocals present in past releases. The consistency of the vocals will give loyal Snow Patrol fans a sense of reassurance. However, it is the only original component the band has not altered.
“Called Out In The Dark” eases into the new, optimistic character of the band. The drumbeat delivers a memorable rhythm worthy of foot-tapping and head-bobbing.
The bridge picks up the tempo of the song, leading into a synth-rich chorus with encouraging lyrics: “This is your life/ This is your time.” The style brings the band closer to the vocally subtle, yet instrumentally radiant style of Two Door Cinema Club, another indie rock band.
Emphasizing a transition from acoustic to electronic, “I’ll Never Let Go,” is a fine example of Snow Patrol’s ability to combine subtle bass lines behind its dominant beat. The flexibility of Lightbody’s vocals continues to be highlighted throughout the dynamic track.
Just in time for the frigid winter weather, Snow Patrol provides some musical sunshine capable of ridding any cloudy mood.