Chvrches Return to the Stage: Debut New Track ‘Conman’ at Royal Albert Hall

A Triumphant Return to the Stage

After a nearly three-year hiatus, the Scottish synth-pop trio Chvrches made a highly anticipated return to the live stage on Friday night. The band, known for their atmospheric soundscapes and infectious melodies, chose the prestigious Royal Albert Hall in London as the setting for their comeback. The performance was part of Robert Smith’s Teenage Cancer Trust concert series, an event that also showcased the talents of Garbage, My Bloody Valentine, and Elbow.

The energy in the room was palpable as the band reunited, marking a significant moment for both the group and their dedicated fanbase. The hiatus, which began in 2023 following the success of their 2021 album Screen Violence, had left many wondering about the future of the band. However, Friday’s performance served as a definitive statement that Chvrches is not only back but actively creating new material.

Introducing ‘Conman’

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the debut of a brand-new song titled “Conman.” Addressing the crowd, lead singer Lauren Mayberry offered a rare glimpse into the band’s recent creative process. “I promise I’m not just inside watching telly all the time, we have been making a record,” she revealed, much to the delight of the audience. “And we thought, since this is a special night, we would play something off that record for you guys. So be kind to us, we’ve never played this in front of human beings before.”

The track itself, while still fresh, showcased the band’s signature blend of electronic textures and emotive vocal delivery. While the band has yet to announce an official release date for their upcoming project, the debut of “Conman” confirms that the creative gears are turning once again.

Exploring New Creative Paths

The return of Chvrches comes on the heels of a period of individual exploration for the band members. In 2023, Lauren Mayberry announced that she would be stepping away from the band to pursue a solo career. This journey culminated in the release of her solo LP, Vicious Creature, in December 2024, followed by an extensive tour in 2025.

Mayberry has been candid about the necessity of this creative detour. In an interview with NME, she explained the motivation behind her solo work: “There would be lyrics or concepts that I had come up with over the last couple of years and then thought that I couldn’t do in a Chvrches song. These are things that I just need to say from my point of view. Obviously I’m the narrator in Chvrches, but you’re still speaking on behalf of a group.”

This period of individual growth appears to have reinvigorated the band’s collective dynamic. As they look toward the future, fans can expect a sound that reflects both their shared history and the new perspectives gained during their time apart. With the debut of “Conman,” the next chapter for Chvrches is officially underway.