This review is late in coming, but not because of the quality of the show. I'm a semi-casual fan of Snow Patrol, mostly enjoying their radio hits and a few less well-known tracks. But I would recommend their live show to almost anyone who enjoys good synth-infused rock. They put on one of the best shows I saw in 2012, with a great mix of high energy songs you could dance to, and softer, melodic cuts.
I knew a good number of the songs they played, but even the ones I didn't I felt like I was able to connect with easily. There were few, if any, "misses" as far as I'm concerned, which is rare even for a really solid band. Basically, they write damn good songs, and what you hear on the radio is at once very indicative of the quality of their music, but also just a portion of the range they have musically.
I also really enjoyed the lead singer's stage presence. He clearly seemed to be enjoying himself, at times totally lost in the performance and so joyful in that. He had various interesting mannerisms, in particular a habit of "pushing" his hands to the crowd when an epic beat or rhythm change would happen, and I felt it actually added to the show overall. He was also quite funny and rather endearing in his stage banter.
Last but not least, though I have had my complaints about the sound at The Fox Theater in the past, this time I lucked out as it was really good. Snow Patrol has some very complex and intricate instrumentation, and vocals are key, both of which are areas where the Fox's seemingly limited mid-range and muddy bass tend to hurt the overall experience. But somehow it was all good this time around. From where I was standing, against the railing on the 1st elevated section above the pit area in front of the stage, the view and sound were equally good.
Overall I'd really recommend Snow Patrol live, certainly to fans, even casual ones, but also to anyone who is into this type of music or is just looking for a good show with really solid music throughout. I can't wait to see them again.