CHVRCHES present Screen Violence at the Paramount

We headed to the Paramount theater full of anticipation for the Chvrches show, something we’ve been waiting for more than a year. I know they came through Seattle last August right as their fourth record, Screen Violence, was released but we wanted to experience their own headlining set and production. We did catch their midnight set this summer at Madrid’s Mad Cool Festival and that amazing, but we always want more. The band consisting of Lauren Mayberry, Iain Cook, Martin Doherty, and Jonny Scott, was going to give us another night to remember.

Shortly after nine the lights dimmed and the theme from “Nightmare on Elm Street” was playing through the sold-out venue. When the intro was done the band took the stage starting with “He Said She Said,” as Mayberry established her dominance, mesmerizing every person there. Known for her constant spinning across the stage, the lead singer had everyone eating out of the palm of her hand during their performance.

As the set progressed and we heard a few of our old favorites and new additions people seemed to get louder. The sold-out crowd was enjoying every second and the charismatic Mayberry was leading their enthusiasm. Mayberry stopped many times to banter about things but the most notable one was before “Night Sky,” which she dedicated to a fan named Shane who recently passed away.

Highlights were “How Not to Drown,” “Bury It,” “Final Girl,” and “Never Say Die,” which the fans joined it to help with words, “Didn’t you say that, didn’t you say that?” Mayberry also had a couple of outfit changes, the most on point with the theme of the tour was her white Final Girl shirt that she changed for their spooky tune, “Final Girl.” The white shirt was covered in fake blood stains along with her hands after she returned for the encore adding to the character.

As they lead into “Asking for a Friend,” Lauren kept her bloody hands up to dry the blood before grabbing her mic to sing their first hit, “The Mother We Share.” The night ended in what seems so short, but wasn’t, with “Clearest Blue,” which everyone once again screamed, “It’s not enough, not enough, not enough!” which was also the sentiment as the show drew to a close. Being able to see their live progression since their first album has really been amazing. Every time they find a way to captivate more and to keep their shows intriguing and full of energy. Make sure to not miss their set if they come through your town!

Words and photos: @s.barkalakis