Chvrches Members Launch New Project 'The Leaving' with 'Ultimate Buzz' Album

Martin Doherty and Jonny Scott forge a new creative path with their rave-inspired side project.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 11:43am

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Chvrches members Martin Doherty and Jonny Scott have formed a new collaborative project called The Leaving, set to release their debut album 'Ultimate Buzz' on April 24th. The album, described as 'rave-indebted' and 'forged in grief, rebuilt through friendship,' marks a departure from Chvrches' synth-pop sound as the duo explores more experimental electronic and emotional themes.

Why it matters

The Leaving's emergence reflects a growing trend among established artists to pursue side projects as a means of creative expression and personal exploration. This allows musicians to break free from expectations, experiment with new genres, and build a more intimate connection with fans.

The details

The Leaving was formed by Doherty and Scott during a period of personal difficulty, with Doherty experiencing the loss of his father and a sense of disconnection from Chvrches, while Scott navigated his own upheaval. This shared experience of grief led to the formation of the duo, whose music blends electronic elements with a raw emotional core. Early singles like 'Saved,' 'Pray,' and the recently released 'Fluoxetine' showcase this rave-inspired sound, a departure from Chvrches' synth-pop foundations.

  • The Leaving's debut album 'Ultimate Buzz' is set for release on April 24th, 2026.
  • Chvrches is reportedly 90% complete with their fifth album, indicating the band's continued commitment to their primary project.

The players

Martin Doherty

A member of the band Chvrches who is forging a new creative path with his collaborative project, The Leaving.

Jonny Scott

A member of the band Chvrches who is collaborating with Martin Doherty on the new project, The Leaving.

The Leaving

A new collaborative project formed by Chvrches members Martin Doherty and Jonny Scott, exploring a more experimental, rave-inspired sound.

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What’s next

Chvrches is reportedly 90% complete with their fifth album, indicating the band's continued commitment to their primary project.

The takeaway

The Leaving's emergence is part of a broader trend within the music industry, where artists are increasingly launching side projects to pursue different creative visions, experiment with new sounds, and build a more personal connection with fans. This allows musicians to maintain a diverse and fulfilling career while exploring new artistic territories.