We Are Story Tellers
Snow Patrol In Vancouver was a spectacle and perfect way to spend a Friday night. Kicking off the North American leg of the tour, the band celebrated the release of their latest album The Forest Is The Path with a sold-out show at Queen Elizabeth Theatre. The predominantly millennial crowd were treated with a dazzling display of sights and sounds. Admittedly, before stepping into the venue, I only knew two songs-“Chasing Cars” and “Run”. So for me, this show was more an exciting experience, like discovering a new band. However, I quickly realize how dedicated the group’s fanbase was. Between long merch lines, and audience members awaiting their seats, attendance was reaching the thousands. The energy was intense. As an announcement rung through the venue asking people to take seats, Vancouverites wouldn’t have to wait long to experience the night. Taking the stage at 8 was Irish Singer-Songwriter Sorcha Richardson.
As the lights dimmed, an anticipation filled the air. Suddenly, Sorcha Richardson’s name lit up the screen against a bold, fiery orange backdrop, signalling the start of something special. From the moment she stepped on stage, Vancouver was spellbound. With a guitarist by her side, she glided effortlessly through a stunning half-hour set with hauntingly beautiful melodies. If there’s one thing Snow Patrol has mastered, it’s picking openers. Back in 2012, during their Fallen Empires tour, they helped introduce the world to a rising English singer-songwriter named Ed Sheeran. Over a decade later, Sheeran is a global sensation, selling out stadiums and dominating charts. Now, with her introspective lyrics and a performance that felt raw and deeply personal, Richardson proved she could be on a similar trajectory. As she took a final bow to a roaring ovation, the excitement only grew. The night was far from over, Snow Patrol In Vancouver was about to take stage, and the city was more than ready.
With every seat filled and anticipation running high, Vancouver was ready for a night of nostalgic classics. The audience wouldn’t have to wait long as the room went dark and the opening notes of “Take Back The City” opened and was met with intense energy. As the song built to the band’s arrival, a glowing green heart illuminated the back drop, and accompanying, the city’s name. In a moment of pure exhilaration, frontman Gary Lightfoot, Guitarists Johnny McDaid and Nathan Connolly stormed the stage, igniting an electric eruption from the audience.
The 16-track set was a mix of fan-favourites “Open Your Eyes,” “You’re All I Have,” “Run,” blended perfectly alongside fresh additions “Talking About Hope,” and “The Beginning”. Snow Patrol’s signature alternative sound was elevated by stunning visuals that felt like living paintings. Notably through the night, the audience synergized with Gary Lightfoot. Time and time again, he stepped to the edge of the stage, engaging in a call-and-respond with the crowd. It led to a powerful moment during “Shut Your Eyes” where their voices merged as one. Guitarist Johnny McDaid was an absolute warrior, despite multiple hand injuries and surgeries in the past year, he seamlessly switched between guitar and piano without missing a beat. Between the stargazing ambience of Queen Elizabeth Theatre and the stunning visuals, Snow Patrol In Vancouver was captivating. But, the defining moment of the night came when the iconic opening notes of “Chasing Cars,” rang through. All in attendance were on their feet cheering, a sudden rush of nostalgia washed over every millennial in the room. Couples embraced, a vocal symphony united all and time stood still.
Closing out the show was one of the Snow Patrol’s anthems “Just Say Yes”. It was an upbeat finale that sent waves of euphoria throughout the crowd. As the final notes etched their way through fans souls, a seismic eruption of cheers shook both levels of the theatre. Walking into the night, I only saw Snow Patrol as that band with a few hits back in the day. But as the night came to a close, something shifted. As I found myself in line, buying a tour shirt, it hit me-the show wasn’t just about a nostalgic trip. it was something more, it was transcending.
On behalf of Hidden Beats, I’d like to thank Snow Patrol In Vancouver and their team for an sensational night filled with long lasting memories. If you’d like to catch any dates on their North American tour, feel free to visit here: https://snowpatrol.com/
Send us a message here
© Hidden Beats Corp. All Rights Reserved 2020