Review of 'Vicious Creature' by Lauren Mayberry: Exploration of vocal talents beyond Chvrches, showcasing a new, self-assured sound from the band's frontwoman
Lauren Mayberry, the frontwoman of the popular synth-pop band Chvrches, is set to release her highly anticipated solo album, 'Vicious Creature', on December 6, 2024, under the record label EMI. The album, a departure from Chvrches' upbeat electro-pop style, showcases Mayberry's exploration of deeper, more personal themes and her artistic independence.
'Vicious Creature' marks a significant shift in sound, with a sonic range that is a stark departure from Chvrches' 2021 album, 'Screen Violence'. The new album is characterised by a bold voice, a rejection of the need to be perceived as "nice", and a willingness to express oneself more freely.
The album draws inspiration from a variety of artists, including Tori Amos, Fiona Apple, PJ Harvey, Kathleen Hanna, All Saints, Sugababes, and musicals like *Cabaret* and *Chicago*. These influences are evident in the album's exploration of darker, subversive sides of femininity and its thematic focus on sexuality and empowerment from a personal perspective.
The album features a mix of slower, more introspective tracks like "Anywhere but Dancing" and energetic, Britpop-inspired songs like "Something in the Air". "Are You Awake" is a tender piano ballad, while "Oh, Mother" reveals the soft center of Mayberry's voice. "Crocodile Tears" is a kitschy, New Romantic-inspired song with zingers about villainy and emotional response. "Mantra" features a foreboding, trance-like refrain with repeated lyrics. "Punch Drunk" and "Change Shapes" are fist-pumping and pouty songs with basslines reminiscent of late 2010s girl power pop.
However, 'Vicious Creature' can at times feel more like an ideas workshop than a bold artistic statement. Mayberry herself admitted to being caught off guard by mixed impulses, leading to some lagging moments. Despite this, the album is a safe space for Mayberry to express emotions she couldn't in Chvrches.
The album opener, 'Something In The Air', is a rousing cry against unnamed conspiracy theories spread by a British musician. "Sorry, Etc" and "Sunday Best" show influences from riot grrrl and sunny radio beats, but lack a contemporary edge.
Mayberry's new project is an exciting venture that leaves plenty of room for excitement about what lies ahead in her solo artistry. With 'Vicious Creature', she is on her own path of solo discovery, offering a unique and personal take on themes of sexuality, empowerment, and femininity.
"The sonic range of 'Vicious Creature' delves into various music genres, including a touch of electronic music, a hint of funk, and a pop sensibility that is reminiscent of girl power pop from the late 2010s. The album's thematic focus on personal emotions and experiences also mirrors the narratives found in books, particularly those centered around femininity, sexuality, and empowerment."
"Despite the album being described as an ideas workshop at times, Mayberry's exploration of her artistic independence extends to her music selections outside of Chvrches. This is evident in her sources of inspiration, which include Tori Amos, Fiona Apple, PJ Harvey, Kathleen Hanna, rock groups like All Saints and Sugababes, and even musicals such as Cabaret and Chicago."
"The impact of 'Vicious Creature' on the entertainment industry goes beyond just music. Mayberry's bold artistry and willingness to express herself more freely has the potential to influence pop culture and spark conversations about sexuality, empowerment, and femininity, much like books and other forms of media can do."
