Snow Patrol has solidified its place in music history with their emotionally resonant anthems and heartfelt lyrics. For three decades, the band, fronted by the distinctive vocals of Gary Lightbody, has crafted songs that have soundtracked countless moments in our lives. From humble beginnings playing small gigs to headlining major festivals and arenas worldwide, their journey is a testament to the enduring power of their music. With over 10 million records sold and a highly anticipated new album, The Forest Is The Path, on the horizon, and a major UK arena tour set for 2025, now is the perfect time to delve into the heart of their discography and explore the essential Snow Patrol Songs that have captivated audiences globally. Join us as we rank 11 of their greatest tracks, celebrating the songwriting prowess of Lightbody and the band’s remarkable career.
11. Somewhere A Clock Is Ticking
(Final Straw, 2003)
“Somewhere A Clock Is Ticking,” a hidden gem from the breakthrough album Final Straw, has become a cherished staple in Snow Patrol’s live performances. Emerging as the penultimate track on the album, this song is a masterclass in slow-burn intensity. It unfolds gradually, building a shimmering soundscape that envelops the listener. For two decades, its haunting melody and evocative lyrics have resonated deeply with fans, making it a consistent highlight of their concerts and a testament to the depth of Final Straw beyond its hit singles.
10. Take Back The City
(A Hundred Million Suns, 2008)
“Take Back The City,” the electrifying lead single from A Hundred Million Suns, is a powerful anthem fueled by Gary Lightbody’s passionate connection to his hometown of Belfast. This track is a sonic piledriver, driven by a potent energy that mirrors the spirit of reclaiming and celebrating a city. Lightbody’s lyrics, referencing “broken records and words,” hint at social commentary, making it one of the band’s most politically charged songs, delivered with a signature glam-rock infused sensibility. It’s a rousing call to arms, wrapped in Snow Patrol’s anthemic sound.
9. An Olive Grove Facing The Sea
(When It’s All Over We Still Have to Clear Up, 2001)
From their sophomore album, When It’s All Over We Still Have to Clear Up, “An Olive Grove Facing The Sea” offers a glimpse into the raw, emotional core of early Snow Patrol. This song is a delicate and poignant lament, showcasing the band’s nascent gift for melody and emotional depth that would fully blossom in their later work. While it lacks the polished production of their mainstream hits, “An Olive Grove Facing The Sea” possesses a unique, fragile beauty and a sprawling musical landscape that hints at the epic soundscapes to come. It’s a testament to their early artistry and foreshadows the band’s melodic trajectory.
8. Wow
(Final Straw, 2003)
“Wow,” another standout track from Final Straw, showcases a more angular and raw side of Snow Patrol. Drawing inspiration from alternative rock pioneers like Pixies and Sonic Youth, “Wow” is a fuzzed-up, high-energy track that stands apart from the album’s more ballad-heavy singles. Its fiery and dynamic sound demonstrates the band’s versatility and their ability to blend indie rock sensibilities with their signature melodic approach. “Wow” remains a vibrant and powerful reminder of Snow Patrol’s rock roots.
7. Run
(Final Straw, 2003)
“Run” is undeniably the song that catapulted Snow Patrol into the mainstream spotlight. This soaring ballad, with its instantly memorable, skyscraper-sized chorus, became a global phenomenon. Achieving Top 10 status on both sides of the Atlantic, “Run” transcended its initial release, finding further fame through Leona Lewis’s cover in 2007 after her X-Factor win. Its emotional resonance has made it a go-to track for film and television, perfectly encapsulating lovelorn intensity and solidifying its place as a modern classic for evoking powerful emotions in cinematic moments.
A collage of album covers by Snow Patrol
6. Chasing Cars
(Eyes Open, 2006)
No discussion of the best Snow Patrol songs is complete without “Chasing Cars.” This quintessential arms-aloft ballad has become synonymous with the band and a defining song of the 21st century. Crowned the most played song of the 2000s in the UK and the most played song of the 21st century on UK radio, its impact is undeniable. Gary Lightbody himself described it as “the purest love song that ever written,” and its enduring popularity is further cemented by its unofficial association with the TV drama Grey’s Anatomy. “Chasing Cars” is a cultural touchstone, representing heartfelt emotion and sing-along anthems.
5. Chocolate
(Final Straw, 2003)
“Chocolate” perfectly encapsulates Snow Patrol’s ability to blend shimmering pop melodies with indie rock sensibilities. A beloved track from Final Straw, “Chocolate” is both catchy and deeply resonant. Despite its title, the song delves into the existential anxieties of early adulthood, capturing the poignant moment of self-awareness at 25. Lines like “this could be the very minute / I’m aware I’m alive” speak to a generation grappling with identity and purpose, making “Chocolate” a relatable and enduring fan favorite.
4. How To Be Dead
(Final Straw, 2003)
Opening Final Straw, “How To Be Dead” immediately sets a unique and intriguing tone. This track is an eccentric and somewhat quirky piece, beginning with a lo-fi, almost whimsical feel, recounting a trivial lovers’ quarrel and its lingering regrets. However, it dramatically transforms, building into a powerful and epic crescendo that embodies classic Snow Patrol dynamics. “How To Be Dead” showcases the band’s ability to blend introspective lyrics with dynamic musical arrangements, creating a captivating and unconventional album opener.
3. Set Fire To The Third Bar
(Eyes Open, 2006)
“Set Fire To The Third Bar,” a standout collaboration from Eyes Open, features a captivating duet between Gary Lightbody and folk singer Martha Wainwright. This tender ballad leans into a country-infused sound, with a production style more understated than Snow Patrol’s typical anthemic arrangements. Wainwright’s delicate and nuanced vocals beautifully complement Lightbody’s more expressive delivery, resulting in a soaring and emotionally raw confessional. A consistent live favorite, the song has seen various talented female vocalists, including Lissie, Minnie Driver, Lisa Hannigan, and even Cheryl Cole, take on Wainwright’s role on stage, highlighting its enduring appeal and collaborative spirit.
2. Open Your Eyes
(Eyes Open, 2006)
While “Run” and “Chasing Cars” often come to mind first when thinking of Snow Patrol’s epic sing-alongs, “Open Your Eyes” stands as a true testament to their anthemic mastery. Subtler yet equally impactful, “Open Your Eyes” builds to the band’s most triumphant and uplifting climax. Its emotional resonance has seen it featured in popular TV dramas like Grey’s Anatomy, ER, and Gossip Girl. Beyond television, it reached an even wider audience when it was adopted as the official theme song for Barack Obama’s victorious 2008 presidential campaign, underscoring its powerful message of hope and optimism.
1. Spitting Games
(Final Straw, 2003)
“Spitting Games,” predating “Run” but appearing on the same album, Final Straw, is arguably Snow Patrol’s crowning achievement. This track encapsulates everything that makes Snow Patrol exceptional. Its arrangement is both unconventional and utterly compelling, the melody is instantly captivating, and it possesses an infectious quality that lingers long after the song ends. “Spitting Games” showcases indie rock at its most heartfelt and expansive, solidifying its place as the best of Snow Patrol songs and a high point in the genre itself.
Explore more about Snow Patrol and their upcoming tour. Find tickets here
