Review: Eyes Open - Snow Patrol

It's been three years since we've last heard from our friends Snow Patrol and it's been a bit too long. 2003 saw the band release Final Straw which spawned some success with it's anthemic love song, "Run," particularly in the UK. Now, the group is back with Eyes Open, the perfect pop rock follow-up to its predecessor and one that's taking the U.S. by storm. Featuring production again by Jackknife Lee and a whole new set of heartfelt lyrical content penned by frontman, Gary Lightbody, the album showcases a rockier edge than previous efforts while still maintaining the Euro/Indie feel.

The rocker "You're All I Have" kicks off the party and finds Lightbody declaring his love. He then rolls his way through "Hands Open," pleading for the forgiveness of his lover. The next track is perhaps the most poignant and accessible tune on the album, that of "Chasing Cars." Already receiving ridiculous radio play, not to mention an addition to the "Grey's Anatomy Sountrack," the song is as simple and honest a love song as they come. Lightbody sings:

I don't quite know how to say how I feel
Those three words are said too much
They're not enough
If I lay here, if I just lay here
Would you lie with me
And just forget the world

These are the lines of simple love and the Coldplay-esque buildup of "Chasing Cars" only helps to sell it.

"Shut Your Eyes" follows, accompanied by a simple melody and even a choral breakout. "It's Beginning to Get Me" finds Lightbody lamenting a lover's argument to an U2-styled groove and "You Could Be Happy" brings things to a melancholy mood, letting Lightbody's voice take center stage over a simple palette.

"Make This Go On Forever" comes next and stands out as one of the album's finest offerings. Yet another heartfelt lover's argument, the track finds itself building ala' Sigor Ros and the chorus line soars with energy and power. Another choral backing aids the lyrics as Lightbody pleads with his lover: