A band whose musical characteristics have shaped their career and success, it’s not hard to pick one of the Irish alt-rockers’ tunes when it comes on the radio.

But when it came to the quintet’s sixth album, there were murmurs of a reinvention —

Achtung Baby-style.

Sure, the dance-pop elements (as heard on the 2009 single Just Say Yes) have been amplified with the opener I’ll Never Let Go a buzzing pop tune complete with female backing vox.

Also, rather noticably, Fallen Empires isn’t as morose as previous SP efforts with tracks like the standout single Called Out In The Dark and the pacy In The End upbeat and almost joyous.

It’s still unmistakably Snow Patrol with ballads aplenty (The Garden Rules, the gorgeous New York) while This Isn’t Everything You Are is also a must-listen.

RATING: ★★★

IN SHORT: Evolving