Top 10 Chvrches Songs

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Our top ten Chvrches songs introduce us to a trio from Scotland known for their unique electro-pop sound. Although the band is relatively young, having been established in September 2011, Chvrches have made their mark in music thanks to their electrifying performances and distinctive blend of synth-pop and indietronica. Chvrches formed after former Aereogramme members Martin Doherty and Iain Cook decided to start a new musical project. After Aereogramme disbanded in 2007, Doherty toured with The Twilight Sad until 2012. Meanwhile, Iain Cook, inspired by Emeralds, purchased a synthesizer and began experimenting with soundscapes. Cook later met former Blue Sky Archives vocalist Lauren Mayberry when he produced an EP for the band.

Mayberry initially agreed to provide backing vocals but was quickly brought in as a full member of Chvrches. Cook, Doherty, and Mayberry began writing and recording extensive amounts of music in a basement studio. Mayberry proved invaluable to the band, crafting most of the lyrics and hooks. After hearing her vocal potential, Cook and Doherty promoted her to lead vocalist. Doherty revealed that the band’s initial goal was to release music online without thinking about performing live. However, their single “Lies” received significant airplay, forcing the band to prepare for the success knocking on their door. Despite initial anxiety about live performances, they built their confidence by playing two shows under the name Shark Week. Chvrches eventually gained recognition as a promising band, winning several breakthrough awards. Here are the top ten Chvrches songs from the band’s four studio albums.

# 10 – Bury It

Opening our top ten Chvrches songs is the ballad “Bury It” from the band’s 2015 album Every Open Eye. The song’s lyrics allude to rising above past mistakes and moving on to a more positive lifestyle. Chvrches did a remix of “Bury It” featuring Paramore lead vocalist Hayley Williams, which is included in the extended edition of the band’s second studio album. “Bury It” peaked at number thirty-one on the US Alternative Airplay chart.

# 9 – Forever

Featured on the band’s album Love Is Dead, “Forever” is inspired by Lauren Mayberry’s incident where she swore to hate someone forever. Mayberry’s bold real-life experiences, where she regrets nothing she does, including making this statement, shine through in the song. With the word “forever” repeated twenty-four times in the chorus, it’s clear that Mayberry doesn’t seek forgiveness from the person in question.

# 8 – Empty Threat

“Empty Threat” is one of the standout tracks from Chvrches’ sophomore album Every Open Eye. Composed by the band members, the song alludes to recommitting to a relationship after a previous decision to end it—a threat that wasn’t meant to be carried out. “Empty Threat” strikes a perfect balance between instrumentation and vocal performance. Mayberry’s outstanding vocals make this song a worthy inclusion in the top ten Chvrches songs. “Empty Threat” peaked at number seventy-nine on the Belgium Ultratip Flanders Chart.

# 7 – Lies

Chvrches’ album The Bones of What You Believe features an indietronica song titled “Lies.” The band has a significant history with this ballad, as it was their first song released. Described by many as a “godless hurricane of pop energy,” “Lies” alludes to an abusive relationship, with frontwoman Lauren Mayberry expressing her emotions from the perspective of the abuser.

# 6 – Miracle

A faux-EDM breakdown and booming percussion cut with sharp synth sounds are just some of the phrases that can be used to describe “Miracle.” This song brought together Chvrches and producer Steve Mac, culminating in its release on the band’s 2018 album Love Is Dead. Working with Steve Mac helped Chvrches create one of their best releases. Steve Mac has been instrumental in producing reputable songs for artists such as Ed Sheeran, The Wanted, Westlife, and Clean Bandit, thanks to his intuitive songwriting skills. In “Miracle,” the band’s vocalist sings about attempting to find a sense of belonging and hope in life. The song peaked at number twenty-nine on the US Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart.

# 5 – Recover

Number six on our top ten Chvrches songs is “Recover,” from the band’s album The Bones of What You Believe. Composed by the band members, “Recover” is an almost-perfect synth-pop ballad that explores the struggles of a tenuous relationship. The lyrics depict the narrator urging her partner to choose between leaving or loving her to resolve the dilemma of their relationship. “Recover” peaked at number ninety-one on the UK Singles Chart.

# 4 – Clearest Blue

Featured on the band’s second album Every Open Eye, “Clearest Blue” is one of Chvrches’ best songs and has been widely used in media. Written by Chvrches, the song is featured in the soundtracks of The Politician, Forza Horizon 3, and Horizon Pulse’s in-game radio station. This cry-dance-themed song is an upbeat synth-pop ballad with a melody that builds until it reaches a breathtaking climax. “Clearest Blue” peaked at number forty-three on the US Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart and also charted in Japan and the UK.

# 3 – Gun

Venice and Jamie Isaac were not mistaken when they each remixed the song “Gun.” With its brilliant major key and effortlessly catchy tune, the song has received significant attention among other tracks from the 2013 album The Bones of What You Believe. Despite its lyrics featuring dark, bitter, and violent imagery, the song’s fizzing splendor leaves you wanting to hear more from Chvrches. “Gun” peaked at number fifty-five on the UK Singles Chart.

# 2 – Leave a Trace

How do you deal with a friendship or relationship gone sour? While some people might seek to mend things or find closure, Mayberry suggests otherwise in “Leave a Trace,” an awe-inspiring ballad from the band’s 2015 album Every Open Eye. The song’s lyrics allude to a carefree attitude when things reach an irreparable point. Mayberry revealed in an interview that she is not friends with her exes, and she’s okay with that. “Leave a Trace” peaked at number seventeen on the US Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart.

# 1 – The Mother We Share

Featured on the band’s album The Bones of What You Believe, “The Mother We Share” explores the theme of sibling rivalry. Despite the song’s greatness in capturing this rarely discussed theme, Chvrches wrote and recorded the lyrics in just two days. The song was used for a Marc Jacobs commercial and has been covered by notable artists, including Soak, Half Moon Run, and JD Twitch of Optimo.