Blue Plate Special: Chvrches

Chvrches, a Scottish synth-pop band from Glasgow, formed in September 2011, features Lauren Mayberry, Iain Cook, Martin Doherty, and, unofficially since 2018, Jonny Scott. The band’s sound, primarily synth-pop, also embraces indietronica, indie pop, and electronic dance. Musically, Chvrches is praised for their accessible electro-pop sound, drawing comparisons to iconic acts like Depeche Mode and New Order. Their influences range widely, from David Bowie to The Cure, reflecting a deep appreciation for both the pioneers and contemporaries of electronic and indie music.

Their breakout came with the 2013 release of the Recover EP, containing hits like “The Mother We Share” and “Recover,” followed by their debut album, “The Bones of What You Believe.” Chvrches was named fifth on the BBC’s Sound of 2013 list, signaling their rapid ascent in the music world. They’ve collaborated with notable artists and contributed to various media projects, showcasing their versatility and broad appeal.

Before Chvrches, Cook and Doherty’s musical collaboration began in the early 2000s, transitioning through various projects before forming Chvrches with Mayberry, whose addition shifted the band’s dynamic with her becoming the lead vocalist. Their name choice, CHVRCHΞS, was to distinguish them in online searches, with no intended religious connotations.

Some of my favorites from their catalog:

Clearest Blue – from the album Every Open Eye (2015)

 

How Not to Drown (with Robert Smith) – from the album Screen Violence (2021)

 

Miracle – from the album Love is Dead (2018)

 

Recover – from the album The Bones of What You Believe (2013)

 

Never Ending Circles – from the album Every Open Eye (2015)

 

The Mother We Share – from the album The Bones of What You Believe (2013)

 

Good Girls – from the album Screen Violence (2021)