Out of the woods: Snow Patrol play it safe on ‘comeback’ record The Forest is The Path - with the odd encouraging sign of sonic evolution along the way

Seven years after their last album, Snow Patrol return with a record that's both familiar and frustrating.

The Forest is The Path is a safe, middle-of-the-road effort that sees the band retreading old ground without taking any real risks.

There are a few moments of sonic evolution, such as the use of electronics on "Life on Earth" and the more experimental "Wild Horses," but these are few and far between.

For the most part, The Forest is The Path is a by-the-numbers Snow Patrol album, complete with soaring strings, anthemic choruses, and earnest lyrics about love, loss, and redemption.

It's a formula that has served the band well in the past, but it's starting to feel a bit tired on this record.

That's not to say that The Forest is The Path is a bad album. It's just not a particularly exciting one.

If you're a fan of Snow Patrol's previous work, then you'll probably find something to enjoy here.

But if you're looking for something new and innovative, then you're likely to be disappointed.

Highlights:

• "Wild Horses" is a standout track that showcases the band's experimental side.
• "Life on Earth" is a beautiful ballad that features some of Gary Lightbody's best vocals.
• "The Fireside" is a soaring anthem that will please fans of the band's classic sound.

Lowlights:

• The album is too long and could have benefited from some editing.
• The lyrics are often clichéd and uninspired.
• The band doesn't take any real risks on this record, which makes it feel like a missed opportunity.

Overall, The Forest is The Path is a safe and uninspired album from Snow Patrol.

It's a record that will please fans of the band's previous work, but it's unlikely to win over any new converts.