As part of the ten-year anniversary for their 2007 breakthrough record The Con, Tegan and Sara have announced a cover record The Con X: Covers, in which other artists cover each song on the original record.

In the first teaser release, boisterous Scottish synth-pop giants CHVRCHES have released a new hypnotic cover of the track “Call It Off.” CHVRCHES’ version is gorgeous, moody, and atmospheric. It also slows down and stretches out the song (the original version is around 2:20 and the cover is 5:06). Rather than Tegan’s vulnerable vocals, Lauren latches on to a reverb heavy sound, creating something meditative and lonely, but also something that hits you right in the heart.

Tegan Quin herself said about the cover:

“Lauren [Mayberry of CHVRCHES] was one of the first artists we approached for The Con X: Covers project. We are massive fans of CHVRCHES and the music they make. Lauren is an ally to the LGBTQ community and has been outspoken and political, so she fit the ethos of the project perfectly. CHVRCHES are in the studio making a new record, so we were touched they made the time to cover ‘Call It Off.'”

Of the differences between the cover and the original, Tegan added: “Their cover could not have been more unexpected and we think it’s beautiful. Our hope was that each artist would reinvent and reimagine each song, and they did not disappoint!”

The other artists who are part of The Con X: Covers include Ryan Adams, Grimes and HANA, Hayley Williams of Paramore, Bleachers, Kelly Lee Owens, Shamir, Cyndi Lauper, Shura, and others. The proceeds from the record will be going to the Tegan and Sara Foundation, which works in support of LGBTQ+ girls and women.

Check out the CHVRCHES cover and the original music video below.

Photo Credit: Raymond Flotat