Chvrches has released “Overthinker,” the second single from the band’s upcoming fifth album, All the King’s Men, which is set to arrive Jan. 22 via independent label group Futures.
Driven by propulsive synths, “Overthinker” explores complicated family relationships and depression. While lead single “Roses” tackled social issues, the new track takes a more personal approach: “Should I lie to you, keep my thoughts from you?” sings lead vocalist Lauren Mayberry at one point. “Not sure how you raised such a chronic overthinker.”
Its release follows an invite-only, phone-free charity show at Assumption Studios — the converted church which served as the recording location for the new album — in Glasgow, Scotland, on Monday (Oct. 26). The band was joined on stage by Biffy Clyro frontman Simon Neil for three tracks, including a cover of Biffy’s 2007 single “Machines.”
The band debuted eight new songs from All the King’s Men on stage, alongside performing 2013 breakthrough hit “The Mother We Share” and 2015’s “Clearest Blue,” which enjoyed a second wind four years ago when it soundtracked a pivotal scene in Netflix’s LGBTQ+ comedy-drama Heartstopper. Chvrches will perform another intimate gig at London’s St Matthias Church on Thursday (Oct. 29).
All the King’s Men will mark Chvrches’ first album in almost six years. The Scottish synthpop trio — Mayberry, Iain Cook and Martin Doherty — went on hiatus after their 2021 LP Screen Violence, which featured “How Not to Drown,” a collaboration with The Cure frontman Robert Smith.
Chvrches will support the new record with an extensive North American tour beginning in February, followed by a run of shows across the U.K. and Ireland, wrapping up at London’s O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire on May 6. The full list of dates and further ticketing information can be found via the band’s website.
All four of Chvrches’ previous records have landed in the top 10 of the U.K.’s Official Albums Chart, with Screen Violence and 2015’s Every Open Eye both peaking at No. 4. The band’s biggest U.S. chart success to date has been as the featured artist on Marshmello’s 2019 track “Here With Me,” which reached No. 31 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Listen to Chvurches’ “Overthinker” below: