Seated at a sidewalk cafe in Florence last fall, I realized something that Italy, Paris and Salt Lake City have in common - they all listen to Keane.

Despite language barriers, the band's drearily cheery sound is appealing even to those who don't understand the heartfelt lyrics.

Usually it's the soaring song "Somewhere Only We Know" sounding out over the radio waves. Not surprisingly, the song concluded Thursday night's set when the lauded British pop trio played to a well-attended crowd at Abravanel Hall.

The show was a year to the date since the release of "Hopes and Fears," an album front-heavy with delightful songs that will hopefully have an eternal shelf life.

The first few moments of the opening song "Can't Stop Now" were amazing due to the fact that such a rich sound can come from three simple instruments - vocals, drums and piano. At the center of the melodic music making is the flawless voice of cherubic Tom Chaplin who hits every note with envy-inducing perfection.

As introduction, Chaplin let out an emphatic and accented "Salt Lake City" to the throng of cheering fans raised to their feet. With typical British charm, Chaplin said, "It's great to meet you."

Due to flaws in the speaker system, an unwelcome hum accompanied most of the songs played, giving them a rougher edge than they should have had. Still, there was no stopping the rollicking piano of Tim Rice-Oxley on catchy tunes such as "Bend and Break" and "Your Eyes Open."

A trio of new songs were performed.

They are deeper and more mature than anything off the current album, as good as it is. "Nothing In Your Way" is a poptastic winner whereas the highly satisfying "Hamburg's Son" is achingly somber.

There's obvious talent here in all three, but the band's North Star is the urgent, emotive voice of Chaplin. Though "Hopes and Fears" is just a year old, a follow-up is eagerly awaited, especially after hearing the new songs. Judging by the diverse ages of last night's crowd, Keane has broad appeal.

Show opener Brendan Benson, on tour in support of "An Alternative to Love," showcased a talent for great change-ups and surprise riffs. His brand of gut-busting rock does what bands like Maroon 5 only wish they could.