Scottish synth-pop trio Chvrches have revealed that their latest musical contributions to the psychological drama Tell Me Lies, specifically their cover of The Postal Service’s "Such Great Heights" for the season three finale, were a passion project fueled by a genuine appreciation for the series. The band also offered a tantalizing glimpse into their upcoming album, describing its sound as possessing a "fun and ferocity that feels new."
The acclaimed band, comprised of singer Lauren Mayberry and multi-instrumentalists Iain Cook and Martin Doherty, provided a poignant soundtrack to the conclusion of Tell Me Lies‘ third season, which aired on Hulu and Disney+. Their rendition of "Such Great Heights" served as the emotional capstone to the show’s narrative arc, while a cover of Robert Palmer’s "Addicted To Love" opened the season, marking a significant artistic engagement with the series.
Chvrches’ Deep Connection to "Tell Me Lies"
Mayberry shared with Billboard UK that the band’s involvement with Tell Me Lies stemmed from a personal connection. A friend of Mayberry’s joined the show as a writer for its third season, initiating the collaboration. This personal link allowed Chvrches to infuse their work with an authentic understanding of the series’ tone and emotional landscape.
"It was such a treat to get to make music for the season premiere and the season finale of this show," Mayberry stated. "Bookending the insanity and the heartbreak of the season three arc was an honour." The decision to cover "Such Great Heights," a beloved indie classic, was met with both excitement and trepidation by the band.
The choice of "Such Great Heights" was particularly resonant for Mayberry, given her prior connection to The Postal Service. She had previously supported the band on their North American co-headline shows with Death Cab for Cutie in 2023. This personal history added an extra layer of significance to their interpretation of the iconic track.
The Artistry Behind the "Such Great Heights" Cover
Mayberry described the process of covering "Such Great Heights" as an exercise in balancing respect for the original with the band’s own artistic identity. "It’s always a challenge to find the balance of keeping certain aspects of the original that feel essential to the DNA of the song, and trying to bring your own sauce to it," she explained.
She emphasized that "Such Great Heights" is "basically a perfect pop song" and that the band aimed for a faithful rendition. The process involved a deep dive into the lyrics, contemplating their narrative and personal meaning. Mayberry noted that this close examination often reveals new insights, even in songs one knows intimately.
The band’s approach to covers is rooted in understanding the lyrical storytelling and emotional core of the original work. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that their reinterpretations resonate with both the source material and their own artistic sensibilities, making their contributions to Tell Me Lies particularly impactful.
A Look Ahead: New Music and Live Performances
The recording of the Tell Me Lies covers occurred concurrently with sessions for Chvrches’ forthcoming album. This suggests that the creative energy and inspiration drawn from their work on the show may have subtly influenced the new material. Mayberry expressed optimism about the direction of the new record, highlighting its novel qualities.
"There’s a fun and ferocity to it that feels new for us," Mayberry revealed about the upcoming album. This description hints at a potential evolution in the band’s sound, moving beyond their established synth-pop aesthetic into more dynamic and perhaps even aggressive territory. The band members are reportedly pleased with the progress and are eager for fans to experience the new music.
In addition to new music, Chvrches are slated to return to the stage. They will open for the pioneering shoegaze band My Bloody Valentine at London’s Royal Albert Hall on March 27. This performance is particularly significant as it marks Chvrches’ first live show in three years.
The Royal Albert Hall performance is a charity event for the Teenage Cancer Trust, curated by Robert Smith. Despite it being a "stripped back" set, the band intends to deliver a powerful performance. Mayberry assured that they would not compromise their signature sound, stating, "We can’t open for My Bloody Valentine on acoustic guitars, you know?" This commitment to their artistry and to supporting a worthy cause underscores their dedication.
The End of an Era for "Tell Me Lies"
The third season finale of Tell Me Lies also marked the conclusion of the series itself. Showrunner Meaghan Oppenheimer confirmed prior to the finale that season three would be the show’s last. She expressed pride in the planned ending, stating on Instagram, "This was always the ending my writing team and I had in mind, and we are insanely proud of it."
The show’s narrative, which often delves into complex and tumultuous relationships, resonated deeply with Mayberry. She found herself empathizing with the character of Lucy, despite her often "ill-advised decisions." Mayberry believes the season effectively depicted the long-term emotional damage that can result from such relationships, particularly during formative years.
The choice of the early 2000s for the college setting of the show felt particularly poignant to Mayberry, who was a university student during that period. She noted the stark contrast in societal discourse surrounding "toxic" relationships then compared to the present day. This personal reflection likely informed her performance and interpretation of "Such Great Heights," aiming to capture a balance of joy and melancholy inherent in The Postal Service’s music.
Chvrches’ Enduring Influence and Future Trajectory
Chvrches’ last full-length album, Screen Violence, was released in 2021 and achieved commercial success, reaching No. 4 on the Official U.K. Albums Chart. The album was noted for its horror-infused themes, demonstrating the band’s willingness to explore darker and more experimental sonic territories.
The band’s consistent evolution and their ability to connect with diverse projects, from television soundtracks to supporting legendary artists, solidify their position in the contemporary music landscape. Their upcoming album, with its promised "fun and ferocity," suggests a continued drive for innovation and artistic exploration.
The enduring appeal of Chvrches lies in their ability to blend sophisticated electronic production with emotionally resonant songwriting. Their covers, like the one for Tell Me Lies, showcase their versatility and their deep respect for musical history, while their original material continues to push sonic boundaries. Fans can anticipate a new chapter for the band, marked by both familiar strengths and exciting new directions. The anticipation for their next album, coupled with their return to live performances, signals a vibrant period ahead for Chvrches.
