The Leaving’s ‘Ultimate Buzz’: A New Chapter for Chvrches Members and the Rise of Side Projects
Martin Doherty and Jonny Scott of Chvrches are forging a new path with their collaborative project, The Leaving, and their debut album, ‘Ultimate Buzz,’ set for release on April 24th. This venture isn’t just a new musical endeavor; it reflects a growing trend among established artists to explore personal expression and creative freedom through side projects.
From Grief to Groove: The Genesis of The Leaving
The Leaving emerged from a period of personal difficulty for both Doherty and Scott although living in Los Angeles. Doherty experienced the loss of his father and a sense of disconnection from Chvrches, while Scott navigated his own personal upheaval. This shared experience of grief and the need for creative outlet led to the formation of the duo. Their music, described as “unfiltered” and “forged in grief, rebuilt through friendship,” demonstrates a willingness to explore vulnerable themes, a characteristic increasingly resonating with audiences.
A Rave-Indebted Soundscape
The Leaving’s sound is described as “rave-indebted,” a departure from the synth-pop foundations of Chvrches. Early singles like ‘Saved,’ ‘Pray,’ and the recently released ‘Fluoxetine’ showcase this evolution, blending electronic elements with a raw emotional core. This willingness to experiment with genre and sonic textures is a hallmark of many successful side projects, allowing artists to break free from expectations and explore new creative territories.
The Tracklist: A Glimpse into ‘Ultimate Buzz’
The nine-track album, ‘Ultimate Buzz,’ promises a cohesive exploration of their shared experiences. The tracklist is as follows:
- ‘Atmosphere’
- ‘Fluoxetine’
- ‘Pray’
- ‘Speak’
- ‘Sing’
- ‘Saved’
- ‘Cursed’
- ‘Creatures’
- ‘Ddust’
The Growing Trend of Musician Side Projects
The Leaving’s emergence is part of a broader trend within the music industry. Artists are increasingly launching side projects to pursue different creative visions, experiment with new sounds, and connect with audiences in new ways. This trend is fueled by several factors, including the desire for artistic control, the ability to explore different genres, and the opportunity to build a more personal connection with fans.
Consider the example of Damon Albarn, known for Blur and Gorillaz, or Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails, who has similarly contributed to projects like How to Destroy Angels. These artists demonstrate that side projects aren’t simply diversions; they can be vital creative outlets that enrich their overall artistic output.
What’s Next for The Leaving and Chvrches?
While focusing on ‘Ultimate Buzz,’ both Doherty and Scott remain involved with Chvrches. The band is reportedly 90% complete with their fifth album, indicating a continued commitment to their primary project. The ability to balance multiple creative endeavors is becoming increasingly common for musicians, allowing them to maintain a diverse and fulfilling career.
FAQ
Q: When is ‘Ultimate Buzz’ released?
A: April 24th.
Q: What genre is The Leaving’s music?
A: It’s described as “rave-indebted,” blending electronic and experimental elements.
Q: Are Chvrches still active?
A: Yes, Chvrches are still working on their fifth album.
Q: Where did The Leaving form?
A: Los Angeles.
Did you know? The album artwork for ‘Ultimate Buzz’ features a striking visual that reflects the album’s themes of emotional intensity and rebuilding.
Pro Tip: Pre-saving ‘Ultimate Buzz’ on your preferred streaming platform ensures you’ll be among the first to hear it on release day!
Stay tuned for updates on live performances and further news from The Leaving. Explore their music and join the conversation – what are your initial thoughts on ‘Fluoxetine’ and the upcoming album?
