That Much Sunlight Shines Brightly

Snow Patrol’s latest effort, A Hundred Million Suns, is a successful capitalization on the sound they discovered with Eyes Open. While not completely identical, the similarities are inescapable and cause the album to feel like a continuation instead of an individual piece.

Experimentation with new effects and song structures are apparent and, for the most part, well-executed. One or two songs feel unnecessary and out of place, but the album will definitely not disappoint fans. Intense beats and lyrical guitar lines help bring Gary Lightbody’s vision of a cheerful record to life.

Common themes in melody and lyrics tie this album together well without becoming repetitive, making it an enjoyable listen, as well as a cohesive piece.

Abandoning the traditional pop form that most of their songs took, the final track on A Hundred Million

Suns, “The Lightning Strike”, is over fifteen minutes long and contains three parts.

Both impressive and daunting at the same time, every second of the song is worth listening to.

The balance between ballads and upbeat songs isn’t perfect, but once the second half of the album is reached, it doesn’t matter. Snow Patrol has decided on the direction that they’re taking, and they’re certainly taking it places.

4 / 5