Almost as good as the first album. Takes some getting used to but very nice nonetheless.
May 28, 2008The latest in bands from the other side of the Atlantic to mine introspection and melancholy into gold, Snow Patrol go for the jugular on their fourth album. The sound is epic and emotional, from the playful name-checking of Sufjan Stevens on "Hands Open" to the gentle lullaby of "You Could Be Happy," Snow Patrol announce that they are more than eager to shoot for the big leagues. While they seem like a slightly less dour Coldplay or a more melodic Travis, lead singer Gary Lightbody has now proven he can be a capable frontman and stand apart from the pack.
That is evident from the compelling first single, "Chasing Cars." Echoing atmospherics easily capture a listener's attention and the hook is killer. It's the best thing on "Eyes Open." What holds the band back is the over-reliance on ballads. Granted, heartbreak has been Snow Patrol's stock in trade since their debut, but a few more kickers like "Headlights On A Dark Road" would have made this a more intriguing album. The ballad heavy second half can almost be forgiven by Martha Wainwright, who contributes a haunting duet with "Set Fire To the Third Bar."
Overall, a strong modern rock album by a band that has a strong identity if not an entirely separate sound. Having a title song that all but screams U2 doesn't make your band sounds any less derivative than all the other sub-Coldplays out there. Lightbody and company need to find something that offsets Snow Patrol from the glut of "Grey's Anatomy"/TV Show mood-setter bands to really race across - as they put it on the final song on "Eyes Open," across "The Finish Line."
April 9, 2008 |  | My favorite Snow Patrol CD |  |
Okay, I have to admit that I didn't even know Snow Patrol exisited until about a year ago when I met my husband. Yet still, this CD is a keeper! This is my jam CD when I'm cleaning the house or just lounging around. There really isn't a bad track on here. If you get this, whether you are a Snow Patrol fateful or newbie, you will not be disappointed.
February 18, 2008Eyes Open by Snow Patrol is the best. I heard them on HDMTV in concert and went and bought the CD. It would be music both the young and old can listen too together. Thanks Snow Patrol - now move on to concerts so we can see you in person.
February 6, 2008I absolutely love this CD!! As far as I'm concerned, there's not a bad song on it and that's very rare! I recommend this to everyone!
January 8, 2008More reviews at Amazon.com ...
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