Colorado State Radio

KCSU FM

KCSU FM

Colorado State Radio

KCSU FM

Livestream
Upcoming Events
Follow Us on Twitter

Review: CHVRCHES — The Bones of What You Believe

The Bones of What You Believe album cover

In synthpop trio CHVRCHES’ debut album, The Bones of What You Believe, listeners can find a departure from the catchy-with-no-substance tracks that are often produced by the genre. The album, released September 24, is filled with lyricism and emotion that make the tracks come alive. Combine this with frontwoman Lauren Mayberry’s nuanced, sprightly, and at times almost aggressive delivery and the unique melodies created with the help of band members Iain Cook and Martin Doherty, and you’ve got an unstoppable battalion of epic pop anthems.

Fans will recognize CHVRCHES’ previously released material – “Recover,” “Lies,” “The Mother We Share,” and “Gun.” These tracks are some of their best, but other standouts include “We Sink,” and “Night Sky.” A unifying trait of these gems is the presence of Ms. Mayberry’s sugary, nimble voice married with rushing electronic melodies that make the songs pulse with life, propelling forward in an ethereal trip. The band stumbles a time or two, mainly when one of the male counterparts attempts to take on the role of lead singer, such as in “You Caught the Light,” and “Tether.” These tracks are also both downtempo, a pace that doesn’t really suit the energy of the band. However, it’s admirable that they went for some diversity, even if the listener feels like they should just stick to what they’re best at. Regardless, The Bones of What You Believe is a successful start for CHVRCHES. This reviewer certainly hopes that there’s more where that came from.

My favorite track: The Mother We Share

My least favorite track: Tether

Sounds like: Florence + the Machine, Passion Pit, The Naked & Famous, M83