Review: Chvrches

The queue for CHVRCHES early performance at Newcastle's o2 Academy is evidence of their popularity.

With doors at 6.30 pm, fans collate for the sold out performance for over an hour in advance of the entrance time to ensure they can bag themselves a spot at the very front of the humongous hall.

As they finally allow entry some 15 minutes after the scheduled door time, fans rush to the auditorium to be treated to a melancholic, yet strangely uplifting set from Sydney's Mansionair as they await the arrival of the deservedly hyped Glaswegian trio.

Arriving on stage promptly at 8.30, as to their pre-gig announcement, the very likeable trio are lost in an explosion of sound and light.

While for many this may cause issues, for the distinctive trio it is all par for the course. This is no fame hungry band wanting to have the limelight, they are three compelling musicians whose compositions will always take centre stage.

Having unveiled their long-awaited sophomore album Every Open Eye in September, the band have new material to showcase as well as delivering those firm fan favourites.

Although vocalist Lauren Mayberry notes their exhaustion, having only just kicked off the UK leg of their tour after an intensive schedule in the States, it is not reflected in their on stage presence - with Mayberry bounding around the stage in a very energetic display.

Although at times their material suffers from a samey sense of feeling, there is no denying that CHVRCHES are an act destined for arena style success.

Any set that boasts the trio of high octane pop nuggets We Sink, Empty Threat and Bury It is one that is destined to win over hearts and prompt a riotous singalong. However, it is with signature single The Mother We Share, which closes the evening, that the band hit their highest note.