Charli XCX's eighth studio album, "Music, Fashion, Film," released on Friday, is on track to debut at the top of the UK album chart. The album, which features chopped-up guitar samples and acid-burned melodies, has garnered largely positive reviews from critics.
The New York Times described the album as "proudly prickly [and] satisfyingly scuzzy," while DIY magazine called the 29-minute record a "candid, introspective triumph." If "Music, Fashion, Film" holds its sales pace, it will become Charli XCX's fourth UK number one album overall and her second of the year, following the soundtrack for "Wuthering Heights" in February.
In addition to the album, the singer released three "b-sides" on iTunes as part of a deluxe edition over the weekend. Initially hesitant to release them on streaming platforms, Charli XCX stated she "begrudgingly" complied after fan demand. She explained on Instagram that these tracks were created to complement the main album songs but felt they were becoming fan favorites, leading to her decision to make them available digitally.
Fans can expect to hear new material performed live as Charli XCX is scheduled to headline the Reading & Leeds festival next month.
The National Portrait Gallery has acquired a photograph of the artist, describing her as "one of the defining cultural figures of her generation."