On the cusp of releasing their much-anticipated eighth studio album The Forest Hits The Path, Snow Patrol treated a packed crowd at Camden’s iconic KOKO to a truly special evening. With the venue’s rich musical history and intimate setting, it felt like the perfect backdrop for this exclusive show, where fans queued early to get a prime spot for the band's long-awaited return to the London stage.
There’s a palpable energy outside KOKO even hours before doors opened. Die-hard fans, many of whom have grown up with Snow Patrol’s timeless anthems, lined the streets of Camden, eager for a close-up experience. The atmosphere was buzzing, a testament to the band’s lasting connection with their audience.
Kicking off the evening was American singer-songwriter Sadie Jean. Drawing from her influences—Joni Mitchell, Taylor Swift, and Phoebe Bridgers—her ethereal voice and heartfelt lyrics captivated the audience. Performing tracks from her debut EP Simple Like 17, she held the crowd’s attention effortlessly, offering a glimpse into the future of a promising artist. It was a short but memorable set, and her warmth was the perfect prelude to the main act.
As Snow Patrol took the stage, the atmosphere shifted. The band opened with a deep dive into their back catalogue, much to the delight of longtime fans. Familiar melodies filled the room, but what set this show apart were the new tracks 'All' and 'The Beginning' from the forthcoming album. The standout moment came when lead singer Gary Lightbody acknowledged the special significance of ‘All’, “This is the first time this entire room has sung along to this one,” he said, clearly moved by the reception.
One of the night’s most poignant moments came when they performed 'These Lies', a song Gary said was influenced by the passing of his father. Despite its inclusion on the new album, this was the first time the band had performed the track live. The raw emotion in the delivery left the audience in awe, cementing it as one of the most special moments of the night.
With a new drummer and bass player in the mix, Snow Patrol’s lineup felt refreshed, and their chemistry on stage was undeniable. The rhythm section carried the weight of the classics effortlessly, breathing new life into fan-favourites. Tracks like ‘Chasing Cars’ and ‘Chocolate’ were met with deafening cheers, as expected. These songs have become soundtracks to many lives, and hearing them live, once again, delivered a flood of nostalgia.
For this reviewer, it was not just Snow Patrol’s stellar performance that left a lasting impression, but also the magic of KOKO itself. The venue's intimate size combined with its rich heritage created an atmosphere like no other, where every strum of the guitar and every word sung seemed to resonate deeply with the audience. It was my first time at KOKO, but I’m certain it won’t be the last.
For those who missed this unforgettable night in Camden, Snow Patrol's journey is far from over. The band is set to embark on a UK and European tour in 2025, hitting select venues. Fans will have another chance to hear their new material and relive the classics. For tour details, head over to www.snowpatrol.com/live and mark your calendars—because if this show is anything to go by, 2025 will be unmissable.
Words and Pictures © Julian Baird
