Description
Snow Patrol – Fallen Empires – Double Vinyl Record
Fallen Empires is the sixth studio album by the Northern Irish-Scottish rock band Snow Patrol, released on November 11, 2011, through Fiction and Interscope Records. Known for their introspective lyrics and emotive alt-rock sound, Snow Patrol took a creative leap with Fallen Empires, experimenting with electronic elements and broader, more anthemic soundscapes. This album reflects themes of introspection, change, and resilience, while incorporating new textures and instrumentation, which marked an evolution from their earlier, more acoustic-driven style.
Following the success of Eyes Open (2006) and A Hundred Million Suns (2008), Snow Patrol wanted to create something different with Fallen Empires. They recorded parts of the album in Los Angeles and Malibu with longtime producer Jacknife Lee, who encouraged the band to explore electronic and dance influences. The result is a sound that combines their characteristic lyrical depth with ambient, electronic, and indie rock elements, giving the album a richer, more dynamic feel.
The album’s production is expansive, with layered synths, programmed beats, and textured guitars that lend a sense of urgency and atmosphere. Fallen Empires reflects Snow Patrol’s evolution as they sought to stay relevant while expanding their musical palette.
Key Tracks
\”I\’ll Never Let Go\” – The album opens with this upbeat, electronic-infused track, signaling a shift in Snow Patrol’s sound. The song’s steady beat and anthemic feel set the tone for the album’s new direction.
\”Called Out in the Dark\” – The lead single and one of the album’s most popular tracks, this song features an infectious beat, danceable rhythm, and lyrics that explore themes of self-discovery and acceptance. It stands out for its catchy melody and experimentation with synth-driven pop.
\”The Weight of Love\” – A more introspective track, \”The Weight of Love\” combines delicate piano melodies with contemplative lyrics, highlighting the band’s emotional depth.
\”This Isn’t Everything You Are\” – With heartfelt lyrics and a soaring chorus, this song is one of the album’s most powerful moments. It speaks to themes of hope and resilience, offering a message of comfort and encouragement.
\”The Symphony\” – This track brings in choral elements and a layered, cinematic feel, adding to the album’s grandeur. The song explores themes of self-worth and inner strength, with a chorus that builds to a powerful crescendo.
\”Fallen Empires\” – The title track is atmospheric and evocative, blending ambient sounds and rhythmic beats with lyrics about transformation and renewal. Its hypnotic feel makes it a central piece of the album.
\”New York\” – A slower, emotionally charged song that reflects on love and longing. The simplicity of the piano and Gary Lightbody’s raw vocals make it one of the more intimate tracks on the album.
\”In the End\” – A track that combines energetic beats and contemplative lyrics, \”In the End\” offers a sense of closure and acceptance. The catchy chorus and upbeat tempo make it a fan favorite.
\”Those Distant Bells\” – With its ambient feel and reflective lyrics, this song captures the album’s introspective side, highlighting the themes of distance, change, and memory.
\”Lifening\” – A deeply personal track, \”Lifening\” explores themes of gratitude and the simple pleasures of life. Its acoustic arrangement and honest lyrics make it a poignant addition to the album.
Fallen Empires delves into themes of change, resilience, and the journey to find peace amid life’s complexities. The lyrics reflect both personal introspection and broader observations about humanity and connection. Musically, the album’s expansive production combines electronic beats, lush synths, and choral arrangements with the band’s signature guitar work and Lightbody’s expressive vocals. Producer Jacknife Lee’s influence is evident in the album’s bold approach to sound, pushing the band to explore a more modern, ambient style.
The album was a departure from the acoustic-driven feel of their previous work, with more emphasis on rhythm and texture. The choral and electronic elements add layers to the songs, creating a sound that’s atmospheric and cinematic.
Fallen Empires received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised the band’s willingness to experiment and evolve. While it didn’t achieve the commercial success of Eyes Open, the album was appreciated for its ambitious sound and lyrical maturity. Fans embraced tracks like \”Called Out in the Dark\” and \”This Isn’t Everything You Are\” as fresh yet true to Snow Patrol’s emotional core.
The album’s experimentation laid the groundwork for Snow Patrol to continue exploring diverse sounds and styles, solidifying their place as a band willing to grow and adapt. Fallen Empires has since gained appreciation as a transitional album that pushed their artistic boundaries.
Fallen Empires marks an important phase in Snow Patrol’s career, capturing their evolution and commitment to exploring new musical territory. Its themes of change and resilience resonate, making it a thoughtful, introspective record. For listeners, the album offers a mix of anthemic energy and introspective ballads, reflecting the duality of growth and reflection. In many ways, Fallen Empires stands as a testament to Snow Patrol’s ability to balance innovation with the emotional storytelling that has always defined their music.
Gatefold Jacket
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
I\’ll Never Let Go
Called Out In The Dark
The Weight Of Love
This Isn\’t Everything You Are
The Garden Rules
Fallen Empires
Berlin
Lifening
New York
In The End
Those Distant Bells
The Symphony
The President
Broken Bottles Form A Distant Star (Prelude)
