I want to start this of, on the off chance that the band read this, by saying that this was one of the best shows I have ever been to, and I’ve been to a lot of shows. It was incredible.
Chvrches are known for their electro/synth-pop sound which is rarely heard these days and they have mastered their craft. The Albert Hall was turned into a club with bright strobing lights, it was like being out in Prague! They came on stage to loud cheers and opened their set with Never Ending Circles – the crowd were eating out of the palm of their hands, clapping along to the catchy melodies and singing along to the lyrics delivered by the impeccable Lauren Mayberry who told the crowd that Manchester was a very special place to play and the audience were a special group of people.
They played a perfect mix of songs from both their first album, The Bones of What You Believe, and their new album, Every Open Eye. Every single song provided the opportunity for the Mancunion crowd to dance like they’ve never danced before however highlights of the set for me were Keep You On My Side, Under The Tide, Afterglow, and of course, The Mother We Share.
I have rarely seen a lead singer of a band command the attention of the crowd in such a captivating way as Lauren did on that Thursday night. Her voice was impeccable and she left the crowd wanting for more. The musicianship of the band was heroic; not a note was out of place and they sounded as tight as a band who’d been doing this for decades.
A truly amazing show from a band who I can’t wait to see and hear more of, I really hope there’s a space for them on the Parklife line up this year.
***
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Review by Jack McCabe | @JackMcCabeIMN