Having written for Cher, Rihanna and the Backstreet Boys, Laura Pergolizzi, aka LP, knows how to pen a hit song, and her sixth studio album is the definitive proof.

The 15-track tour-de-force has a number of expert tonal shifts; one minute the singer is belting out danceable pop, and the next she’s switched to folk balladry. 

Though the record is in constant flux, LP’s vocals are consistently superb. Right from opener ‘When We Touch’, Churches is a compelling exploration of understanding, love and self-acceptance. The haunting ‘Rainbow’ brings to life the struggles of coming out and accepting oneself, while ‘My Body’ celebrates taking back control.

‘Safe Here’ is perhaps the most powerful track, a paean to surviving the dark times and finding peace. 
The record’s manifesto might best be summed up on the title-track, where LP sings, “My church is you, my church is love.”

Listen: ‘Safe Here’