It’s official - Kylie Minogue does not know how to take a break. Just over a month after her three-part docuseries KYLIE premiered on Netflix alongside original song ‘Light Up,’ the singer is back, this time collaborating with Northern Irish indie three-piece Snow Patrol on their latest single, ‘These Alarms’.

Initially a part of the band’s eighth studio album, ‘The Forest is the Path’ (2024), the original demo remained untouched for over a year, filed away under just one word - “Kylie.” Frontman Gary Lightbody knew from the start that the song did not feel complete without Minogue’s vocals - so the band refused to release it until they had secured the collaboration. 

‘These Alarms’ is full of the kind of effortlessly fresh instrumentation and production that only Snow Patrol can achieve. It weaves itself in perfectly with the band’s latest releases, but there is also something distinctly Minogue about the track. Its timeless pop quality coupled with an undercurrent of disco feels sonically reminiscent of Minogue’s late 2010s era, defined by albums such as ‘Golden’ (2018) and ‘Disco’ (2020). 

Vocally, the single is nothing short of stunning. Lightbody’s voice blends naturally with Minogue’s, leaving nothing in ‘These Alarms’ feeling forced or over-manufactured. It is simply two artists sharing their passion for creating the most seamless track they can, whilst playing perfectly to each of their individual strengths.  

The song’s messaging and lyricism are simple but effective. It’s about taking comfort from the little things (“I don’t want the world from you / I just want something true”), and remembering to persevere and be there for each other when times get dark (“don’t give in to loneliness / when everything is such a mess / just hold me in your arms”) - a message that feels especially poignant in today’s social climate. 

Perhaps the best quality of ‘These Alarms’ is the genuineness behind the entire collaboration. From fairytale origin story to final vocals and production, every part feels just as authentic as the message delivered by the track. A better collaboration between these two timeless artists could not have been asked for.

              Rachel Furnish

@rachelfurnish047

Image: ‘These Alarms’ Official Single Cover

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