With seven albums to their name, over 20 years as a band, and a significant lineup change last year, Snow Patrol have certainly faced some challenging times. However, they have emerged stronger, firmly establishing their place in the music industry.
Their evolution is evident with each release, and their new album, ‘The Forest Is The Path’, may very well be their finest work yet.
After a six-year hiatus since their last album, ‘Wildness‘, fans have been eagerly anticipating this new collection of songs, with the band sharing snippets along the way. Their patience has paid off, as this album is a beautifully crafted blend of melodies and thoughtful lyrics. ‘The Forest Is The Path‘ is rooted in reflection, self-discovery, and exploration.
Kicking off with their recent single ‘All‘ the lyrics explore the tension between genuine concern for others and the selfish motives that can often accompany those feelings.
The raw and vulnerable ‘This Is the Sound of Your Voice‘ seamlessly leads into the explosive energy of’Hold Me in the Fire‘, an exhilarating track that matches the dynamic essence of their earlier hits ‘Spitting Games‘ and ‘Chocolate‘.
After the album’s vibrant middle, the mood shifts to a darker, more introspective atmosphere. ‘Never Really Tire‘ is a piano-driven piece that showcases Snow Patrol’s ability to convey deep emotions with minimal instrumentation. Lightbody’s unsettling lyrics—“fuck your horizon, feeding time again…”—highlight themes of internal struggle and the disintegration of personal boundaries, serving as a potent reminder to cast aside ego and embrace self-love.
‘What If Nothing Breaks‘ resonates with anyone who has experienced unhealthy relationships, capturing the essence of the struggle and underscoring the message that sometimes, the only way to safeguard oneself is to walk away.
Ending the album with the title track ‘The Forest Is The Path‘ was a surprise with an ’80s power ballad aesthetic. The lyrics ‘trying hard not to understand because when I do, I have to choose.” It highlights the human inclination to shy away from difficult realities, despite our deep desire for clarity and guidance in our lives.
The whole album is fuelled with the symbolic exploration of intricate emotions and the decisions we encounter throughout our lives.
In summary, ‘The Forest Is The Path‘ is a deeply emotional and reflective album that embodies the essence of Snow Patrol’s artistry, making it a valuable experience for both devoted fans and those new to their music. The album’s examination of vulnerability and resilience resonates powerfully, reinforcing Snow Patrol’s significance in today’s music scene.
