Snow Patrol
Hometown: Dundee, Scotland
http://www.snowpatrol.com/
Friday, May 26, 2006
Stubbs Bar-B-Q (Austin, Texas)
also: The Duke Spirit, Augustana

Hailing from Northern Ireland but formed while attending university in Scotland, Snow Patrol is currently touring in support of their fourth album, Eyes Open, released on May 1. Kind of a lesser known brit pop band, Snow Patrol's music is very similar in sound and genre to such bands as Coldplay and Radiohead, although their music isn't quite as depressing.

According to the band this was their fourth time playing Austin, and judging by the turnout they have attracted quite a local following. Based on the number of prom dresses in the audience it appears that all their work to get their music onto TV shows is paying off by attracting that all important young "O.C." audience.

Snow Patrol played a tight show, covering most of their new album, including of course "Hands Open" and "Chasing Cars," as well as songs from their previous releases. This was a night of squeaky clean brit pop fun and the audience really enjoyed the show.

Special thanks go out to George Ibbetson, Snow Patrol's road manager, for scoring me the camera pass and access to the VIP area. I wish I had brought my better camera setup for it. To check out show photos of Snow Patrol take a look at our photo gallery.

Opening for Snow Patrol was The Duke Spirit from London, fronted by the cute Liela Moss. Formed in the U.K. in 2003, this five-piece band has a fuzzy sound similar in texture and tone to the Pixies, and Liela's voice reminded me a little of Nico and Exene Cervenka. With more of a rough edge than any of the other bands in the showcase, they had a neat buzzy raspy sound, crossing straight ahead rock songs with a noise filled ethereal droning.

Augustana followed The Duke Spirit's set with a neat set. Formed in California, lead singer Dan Layus has a tremendous voice. At times the band's sound, and Layus' voice, were distinctly reminiscent of the bands Live and Counting Crows. They too appear to have developed a local audience, with many of their songs being greeted enthusiastically by the crowd.

Three solid shows, all audience pleasers.