CD Reviews of...
Snow Patrol
Final Straw
By: Nicole Roberge
Snow Patrol, (Gary Lightbody- vocals, guitar, Mark McClelland-bass, keyboards, Johnny Quinn-drums, Nathan Connolly-guitars), the newest band hailing from the UK to be reaching US airwaves, is hitting hard with their release, Final Straw. The band is not doing anything new or innovative with this record, they just make good music with confessional lyrics so that you can’t deny their luminosity. Each song reaches a part of you differently and offers a connection not easily found on today’s store shelves. From the peppy Spitting Games to the rocking Tiny Little Fractures, this is an extraordinary album that is worthy of every music fan’s ears.
Opening with How To Be Dead, we are immediately introduced to the striking sound of the band, the limitless amorous and unique vocals of Lightbody. Lyrically, it begins with “Please don’t go crazy if I tell you the truth.” In essence, the album consists of little truths, chronic observations into life’s relationships, with its confessional lyrics sweeping through.
Chocolate is one of the most notable tracks on the album. It has a jubilant sound and is a sharp song lyrically, with driving drums throughout. In it, he sings, “With a name I’d never chosen I can make my first steps/As a child of 25/This is the straw, final straw in the/ Roof of my mouth as I lie to you/ Just because I’m sorry doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy it at the time.” Run is an inspired single, with the appropriate mix of a somber mood, climactic instrumentation and vocals, and moving lyrics
Grazed Knees is an adorable song, simple and elegant with light vocals and minimal guitar, sincerity encompassing the lyrics. It is a graceful model of the impact a song can have in a short amount of time.
Final Straw ends on a melancholy note with Same. It is a quiet and pensive song and the perfect way to end an album that has offered such reflection. A stunning band, they show musical ingenuity on this album and an incredible prowess for all that is genuine in music. Snow Patrol’s Final Straw is worthy of more praise than I could ever give.