Description
Chvrches – Screen Violence – Opaque Red Vinyl Record
Chvrches’ Screen Violence (2021) is the fourth studio album by the Scottish synth-pop band, marking a darker and more introspective turn in their discography. Known for their infectious melodies, shimmering synthesizers, and lead singer Lauren Mayberry’s distinct vocals, Chvrches blends electronic pop with emotionally resonant lyrics on this album, exploring themes of fear, isolation, and trauma. Screen Violence was released during the COVID-19 pandemic and reflects the anxieties of living in a highly mediated, technology-driven world.
The album title refers to both the emotional violence experienced through the screen (social media, television, etc.) and the cinematic portrayal of violence in horror films, which has influenced the aesthetic and thematic direction of the record. Musically, Screen Violence stays true to Chvrches’ synth-driven sound but incorporates darker, more cinematic elements, blending nostalgia for 80s synth-pop with modern pop production.
Screen Violence leans into a darker, more atmospheric side of synth-pop compared to Chvrches’ previous albums. The synths are lush and cinematic, often creating an eerie, foreboding atmosphere that aligns with the album’s themes of fear and alienation. While the hooks and melodies are still catchy and anthemic, there’s a palpable sense of tension and melancholy throughout the album.
Chvrches have always drawn on 80s synth-pop, but Screen Violence takes it a step further with more overt nods to the dark, atmospheric textures of artists like Depeche Mode, The Cure, and John Carpenter’s film scores. These cinematic influences give the album a moody, immersive quality that feels both nostalgic and contemporary.
The production is sleek and polished, with layers of shimmering synths, punchy electronic drums, and Mayberry’s vocals cutting through the mix. There’s a balance between the bright, pop-oriented melodies and the heavier, more ominous electronic arrangements that create a sense of contrast and tension throughout the record.
Key Tracks
“He Said She Said”: The album’s lead single, “He Said She Said,” is a confrontational track addressing the pressures placed on women in society, with Mayberry’s lyrics critiquing toxic expectations. The song’s catchy, upbeat chorus contrasts with the darker lyrical content, making it one of the more radio-friendly tracks while still maintaining the album’s emotional depth.
“How Not to Drown” (feat. Robert Smith): This collaboration with The Cure’s Robert Smith is one of the standout tracks on the album. The song’s brooding atmosphere and moody production align with Smith’s gothic sensibilities, while the lyrics deal with themes of survival and resilience in the face of overwhelming pressure. The combination of Mayberry and Smith’s vocals adds an emotional weight to the track, making it one of the album’s most powerful moments.
“Final Girl”: A song that directly references the “final girl” trope from horror films, where the last surviving female character must face the killer. “Final Girl” blends upbeat, shimmering synths with darker lyrics about survival and trauma, creating an interesting juxtaposition between sound and content. The track reflects on the pressure of always having to be strong and resilient in the face of fear and adversity.
“Good Girls”: Another standout track, “Good Girls” critiques societal expectations of women and the idea of “playing nice.” It’s a defiant, high-energy song with an infectious chorus, combining pop sensibilities with a darker, more rebellious edge.
“Nightmares”: This track delves into the more unsettling and introspective side of the album, with haunting synths and eerie production that mirror the lyrics about fear, isolation, and internal struggles. The darker, atmospheric elements on “Nightmares” help create an unsettling, cinematic feel.
One of the central themes of Screen Violence is the feeling of isolation, both personal and societal. The album reflects on the loneliness and anxiety that comes with living in a hyper-connected world, where we’re constantly engaging with screens but often feel more disconnected than ever. Songs like “How Not to Drown” and “Nightmares” explore these themes with raw emotional honesty. Screen Violence tackles issues of gender inequality, particularly in tracks like “He Said She Said” and “Good Girls.” Mayberry’s lyrics critique the unrealistic expectations placed on women and the constant pressure to conform to societal standards. The songs reflect a feminist perspective, addressing the struggles and frustrations that come with navigating these pressures. The album also delves into themes of fear and trauma, often using horror movie references as metaphors for personal struggles. “Final Girl,” for example, uses the horror trope to explore resilience and survival, while “Nightmares” and “Violent Delights” tap into the emotional toll of facing one’s inner demons.
Lauren Mayberry’s voice is central to the emotional weight of the album. Her vocals range from delicate and ethereal to powerful and defiant, depending on the tone of the song. Mayberry’s ability to convey vulnerability and strength at the same time is a key element of the album, especially on tracks like “He Said She Said” and “How Not to Drown,” where her voice cuts through the dense, atmospheric production. The lush, layered synths create the backbone of the album’s sound. Synth player and co-producer Martin Doherty creates expansive, cinematic soundscapes that range from bright and poppy to dark and brooding. The synth arrangements are polished and complex, with subtle nuances that reward repeated listens. The electronic drums are punchy and precise, adding a modern, danceable edge to many of the tracks. The beats are often combined with atmospheric layers of sound, creating a sense of space and tension that mirrors the album’s themes of isolation and fear.
Released during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Screen Violence struck a chord with listeners who were dealing with feelings of isolation, fear, and anxiety. The album’s themes of alienation and the violence of media consumption felt particularly relevant in a time when many were spending more time online and in front of screens than ever before. Screen Violence was met with widespread critical acclaim for its darker, more mature sound and introspective lyrics. Reviewers praised Chvrches for their ability to balance pop sensibilities with deeper emotional content, and the collaboration with Robert Smith was seen as a highlight of the album.
Chvrches’ use of 80s synth-pop aesthetics places them alongside other artists who have drawn on this era for inspiration, such as The Weeknd and Dua Lipa. However, Chvrches’ darker, more cinematic approach sets them apart, positioning them as one of the more introspective and emotionally complex acts in the 80s revival movement.
Screen Violence by Chvrches is a dark, introspective album that blends the band’s signature synth-pop sound with heavier, more cinematic elements. Tackling themes of isolation, fear, and societal pressures, the album captures the anxieties of living in a technology-driven world, while Lauren Mayberry’s powerful vocals add emotional depth to the glossy, electronic production. With standout tracks like “He Said She Said” and the haunting “How Not to Drown” featuring Robert Smith, Screen Violence is one of Chvrches’ most mature and emotionally resonant records, offering a blend of pop accessibility and deep introspection.
Opaque Red Vinyl, indie record store exclusive
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Asking For A Friend
He Said She Said
California
Violent Delights
How Not To Drown
Final Girl
Good Girls
Lullabies
Nightmares
Better If You Don’t
