Lauren Mayberry and Ally Coalition Support Local Nonprofits on “Vicious Creature” Tour

CHVRCHES frontwoman Lauren Mayberry returned to the Twin Cities last week with an intimate show at The Fine Line. Touring behind her debut solo album “Vicious Creature,” Mayberry has been using her platform to shine a spotlight in each city she visits.

Lauren Mayberry. Photography by Dylan Novacek.

Partnering with The Ally Coalition, an organization founded by Jack Antonoff that uses the power of music to uplift LGBTQ+ youth, Mayberry has been inviting local nonprofits to table at each of her shows. Her stop in Minneapolis highlighted The Bridge for Youth, a youth homeless shelter that empowers youth experiencing homelessness through safe shelter, basic needs, and healthy relationships.

Over the years, Mayberry has been a strong advocate for women’s rights and has been outspoken about supporting LGBTQ+ individuals. In addition to highlighting community nonprofits at her show, she helped secure donations for the Ally Coalition and their work to support queer youth.

Lauren Mayberry is an artist who truly lives into her values. Seeing her use her platform to spark positive change is wonderful to see. That is one of the many things I admire about her- she is unafraid to use her voice. That voice shines through on her debut album.

“Vicious Creature” is a confessional album that touches on topics of conspiracy theories, sexism in the music industry, self-actualization, and growth. Taking her sound to new places, this album is significantly different than a CHVRCHES record.

Listeners hear a blend of ballads, garage rock, and some 80’s flair. It is all tied together by Mayberry’s incredible voice and strong lyricism.

In a live setting, she doesn’t miss a beat. Over the years, Mayberry has grown as a stage presence. As she took the stage at the Fine Line, I feel like she was at her most comfortable, authentic self.

A trademark of her stage presence comes from her humor. Mayberry is incredibly charming with her humor and controls the room with her approachable personality.

Playing every song off the new album, along with one cover, the audience was engaged throughout the night. Fans were more so on the older side, with many likely getting tickets after hearing the single “Crocodile Tears” on The Current.

The energy in the room was very relaxed and intimate. The Fine Line was a perfect venue for the show. Although I would’ve liked to see higher energy from the crowd, the demographic definitely favored listening and appreciating.

This was my fourth time seeing Mayberry live, the first three being with CHVRCHES. Her solo material shined in this setting and made for one of my favorite times seeing her live. Some standout songs for me included “Sorry, Etc,” “Something In The Air,” and “The Mantra.”