From Chvrches to the Gothic, Lauren Mayberry Shines Brightly
February 4, 2025
Photos: Gerardo Federico
Last Saturday, the Gothic Theatre was abuzz with anticipation as fans gathered to witness Lauren Mayberry’s solo performance, part of her “Vicious Creature” tour. The lead vocalist of the synth-pop band Chvrches, Mayberry’s venture into solo artistry has been met with enthusiasm and curiosity, and the Gothic Theatre provided the perfect backdrop for an evening that promised both nostalgia and novelty.
As the lights dimmed, the audience erupted in applause, welcoming Mayberry to the stage. She emerged, exuding confidence and grace, adorned in an ensemble that was both edgy and elegant. True to her signature style, she sported her distinctive eye adornments, a creative touch that fans have come to admire over the years. This attention to detail in her appearance not only showcased her artistic flair but also reinforced her connection to long-time admirers who have followed her journey with Chvrches and now as a solo artist.
Opening the set with “Crocodile Tears,” the second track from her debut album “Vicious Creature,” Mayberry immediately captivated the audience with her powerful vocals and emotive delivery. The song’s 1980s-inspired vibe resonated deeply within the venue, setting a nostalgic yet contemporary tone for the evening.
Throughout the night, Mayberry showcased a diverse selection of tracks from her album, each highlighting different facets of her musical influences and personal experiences. “Change Shapes,” a bubbling pop nugget with a freewheeling payoff, critiques the need to change in order to fit in, while “Sorry, Etc” runs on brittle punk energy as Mayberry snarls: “I sold my soul to be one of the boys.”
A standout moment was her rendition of “Something in the Air,” with its catchy melody and introspective lyrics. The performance in front of an adoring audience added an extra layer of depth, with Mayberry’s strong vocals shining through, leaving that audience in awe.
In addition to her original compositions, Mayberry surprised attendees with a deeply heartfelt cover of The Verve’s “Bitter Sweet Symphony.” Her unique interpretation breathed new life into the classic, blending nostalgia with her contemporary style. The choice of cover not only showcased her versatility but also her appreciation for timeless music that transcends generations.
Between songs, Mayberry engaged the audience with personal anecdotes and reflections, creating an intimate atmosphere that made the large venue feel cozy. One particularly endearing moment was when she shared her initial confusion upon realizing that the Gothic Theatre is located in Englewood, not Denver. “For a second, I thought I was in the wrong city,” she quipped, eliciting laughter from the crowd. “But then I realized, Englewood is pretty much Denver, right?” endearing her even more to the audience with a down-to-earth nature and quick wit.
The evening progressed with a mix of high-energy tracks and soulful ballads, each delivered with passion and precision. The Gothic Theatre’s giant acoustics complemented Mayberry’s vocal range, ensuring that every note resonated beautifully. The lighting and stage design were minimalist yet effective, keeping the focus squarely on the music and the emotions it conveyed.
As the concert drew to a close, Mayberry expressed her gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support. “This journey has been incredible, and it’s all because of you,” she remarked, her voice tinged with emotion. She concluded the night with “Are You Awake?”, a somber piano-led track that takes a hard look at her life choices. Her friends have settled down—“Been counting their babies and their diamond wedding rings”—and her career expectations are heavy: “Hometown hero is a poisoned chalice choice,” she sings.
As the final notes faded, the audience erupted in applause, a testament to the profound impact of the performance. While the show was relatively short, it was undeniably sweet, leaving attendees with a sense of fulfillment and a deeper appreciation for Mayberry’s artistry. As fans spilled out into the cool Colorado night, there was a shared sentiment that this concert was a perfect way to kick off the weekend—a memorable evening that celebrated both the accomplished past and the promising future of this remarkable artist.
Don’t forget to check out my Instagram and TikTok feeds for videos – and don’t miss Lauren’s beautiful cover of The Verve’s “Bittersweet Symphony”!
