Everyone’s worst nightmare is the singer of a band putting out a solo record and touring it. Or at least that’s what Lauren Mayberry joked about with the audience at Thalia Hall in Chicago. In celebration of her solo debut Vicious Creature, the famed Chvrches singer took to the intimate Pilsen venue to showcase her journey in all its glory. Taking a step back from the synth-pop trio, Mayberry put on a playful yet powerful performance, putting all of her talent, theatrics, and individuality on display.
Ahead of Lauren Mayberry, opening the night was Cult of Venus, an electronic artist whose almost gothic vibe signified emo dance night.
A solitary singer onstage with a keyboard and a guitar produced raving music to be enthralled by for a half hour. Cult of Venus welcomed all of us and commented on how joyous our camaraderie was despite living in the age of the apocalypse. The tone was set for a wonderful night.
At 9pm, the lights went out as a drummer and bassist took the stage and began the song “Crocodile Tears.” Mayberry skipped up to the mic with a vibrant energy, ready to take command for the night. She utilized a red telephone to begin, demonstrating her use of props in a literal sense for her songs. With a carefree stage presence and bass rhythms that could make your heart explode, she established what kind of show everyone was in for. “Change Shapes” and “Mantra” followed suit with an equally powerful performance.
Mayberry was bound to put on an incredible show due to Vicious Creature being an incredible album.
What made it so much more impressive was Mayberry’s ability to keep the performance fresh and engaging. Her voice was still as angelic as ever and her cheerful, unbothered attitude was infectious. It was impossible not to have child-like wonder about the show. Even her use of literal props based on lyrics was novel and incredibly fun! Most notably the red bullhorn she used while singing “Something In the Air.”
As a massive Chvrches fan, I was very much looking forward to this show. Lauren Mayberry is a phenomenal singer and a very talented lyricist. She commented on all of the Chvrches shirts she saw in the audience, saying that they’ll make another album soon. This Chvrches bit may have been exciting, but by the end of the night, I was completely convinced of Mayberry as a solo artist. Vicious Creature has a great mix of outright pop bangers and soft, intimate tracks. Hearing “Are You Awake?” and “Oh, Mother” were emotionally moving, while tracks like “Punch Drunk” and “Sunday Best” had the crowd dancing freely and having a blast!
Lauren Mayberry is extremely talented, and this show was further proof of that. As she has with Chvrches, she is very deserving of the same praise and respect as a solo artist.
All photos by Oscar De Leon
