Snow Patrol gained mainstream success in the United States with its 2004 album “Final Straw,” a fantastically layered work of art that produced hits like “Chocolate” and “Run.” “Eyes Open” is the Irish quintet’s fourth album and follow up to “Final Straw.” Unfortunately, this release fails to measure up to band’s last album.
“Eyes Open” begins with “You’re All I Have,” the first single for listeners in the UK. Like many of the songs on the album, it is catchy but takes a while to grow on its audience. The next track, “Hands Open,” is the first U.S. single and is a rockin’ but generic tune. This seems to be the case with pretty much all of the songs on “Eyes Open.” It’s an album filled with songs heavily reminiscent of hits of the ’90s (think Gin Blossoms and Semisonic) that lack the energy and punch of previous Snow Patrol releases. In “Chasing Cars,” lead singer Gary Lightbody sings, “If I lay here, if I just lay here,” and a listener can’t help but answer “I will fall asleep.” The rest of the album maintains that train of thought – boring, slow song after boring, slow song. “Make This Go On Forever” lives up to its name, going on for more than five minutes barely gaining any momentum or vigor. The only breath of fresh air comes when Martha Wainwright lends her mysterious and distinctive vocals in “Set The Fire To The Third Bar.” It’s the only song that stands out on the album, and that’s thanks to a guest vocalist. “Eyes Open” is a disappointing release from a talented band that can do so much better.