Currently on her second solo tour in support of her debut solo album Vicious Creature, CHVRCHES vocalist Lauren Mayberry braved the brutal cold and high winds earlier this week to play Philadelphia’s Union Transfer. The night kicked off with an opening set from the enigmatic solo artist Cult of Venus, who played multiple instruments and handled vocal duties to successfully create the illusion of a full band. Reminiscent of Caroline Polachek with a touch of a club vibe, her sound fit well alongside Mayberry’s.
Mayberry took the stage next, joined only by her guitarist and drummer—but as Cult of Venus proved, you don’t need a big band to produce a big sound. She opened with an electric performance of “Crocodile Tears” and “Change Shapes,” both from her new album. Draped in a fur coat, Mayberry was all over the stage, dancing with a rotary phone, striking poses, and engaging with the crowd as she moved through the fog. A standout moment was her cover of The Verve’s “Bittersweet Symphony,” a song she’s been performing on this tour.
Much like her opener, Mayberry’s set was too short for her enthusiastic audience, leaving them eager for her next release. Whether it’s a solo project or a reunion with CHVRCHES, only time will tell. Check out photos from both sets below, and revisit our recent interview with Mayberry here.
LAUREN MAYBERRY
CULT OF VENUS
