As if it were a test for the true Snow Patrol faithful, the day before the Newcastle show the region was covered in a layer of white. Though it had somewhat thawed before show time, a bitter wind still stung many peoples journey. Luckily for everyone who made the show, Gary Lightfoot and the rest of the band were there to turn up the heat.
Lights illuminated the stage and lasers pierced the darkness of the crowd, before the guitars struck; the band sparked and the first tune, I’ll Never Let Go, exploded into life. The massive backdrop which filled the back of stage flashed a kaleidoscope of imaged from the camera which recorded the action. Whilst a neon snowflake suspended from the ceiling broke apart and spiraled above the band.
As a front man, Gary Lightfoot doesn’t disappoint, he whipped up the crowd during their livelier tracks, dragging everyone up onto their feet in the seating areas. Immediately improving the atmosphere, which the band fed off in return. Just Say Yes, stood out, its slow deliberating synthesizer backed build up, drawing up to the crescendo in the chorus, when the crowd went crazy. However I think as an arena band I think they are at their best when the tempo slows and they play tracks such as Chocolate and Run, where the qualities of the bands vocals are laid bare. Gary has a great smoothness and tone to his voice, and the hypnotized crowd were held in the palm of his hand, while the emotion filled lyrics of, Set Fire To The Third Bar, stirred the heart of even the harshest cynic.
The set list was a perfect balance of their older songs for the long term fans, whilst never alienated their ever growing fan base, by playing their current hits and singles. This meant all of their major albums were featured, whilst new tracks were dropped in, never feeling out of place. Due in part to the bands obvious enthusiasm for the tracks. As well as of course, their distinct sound and brand of storytelling which flows effortlessly through every song.
As a set of musicians these guys really are something special, and the genuine gratitude they show to the fans that got them to where they are, just endears them further.
musicinfocus 