Charli XCX Takes London’s O2 Arena by Storm with “Brat” Concert

At London’s O2 Arena on Thursday night, “Brat” wasn’t just a word, or the name of Charli XCX‘s wildly successful album — it was a way of life.

Rave-Ready Atmosphere

Looking out at the sea of people who packed the sold-out show, the key-lime green of the album cover was everywhere, as were rave-ready shades and phrases like “bumpin’ that” and “I’m so Julia.” All over the arena, attendees took photos with the camera flash on and strutted up and down stairs as if on a runway, clearly influenced by Charli’s unabashed confidence. Despite long queues for drinks and restrooms and the venue running out of wristbands for those on the floor, concertgoers were determined to have a good time — as long as they heard those club classics.

Energetic Performance

Charli delivered on this ASAP, starting the show with nihilistic anthem “365,” with opener Shygirl making an appearance to perform her remixed version. The energy in the room was electric, with the crowd jumping around and dancing uninhibitedly throughout the hour-and-45-minute performance. The set consisted of five acts, showcasing Charli in different fabulous outfits for each, alternating between the “Brat” album, its remixes, and older favorites. The show was a visual spectacle, with suspended scaffolding, viral TikTok dances, and surprise guest appearances, including Charli’s fiancé George Daniel.

Captivating Production

Although Charli was the sole performer on stage, the club-like design and clever camerawork kept the audience captivated. Various moments, like singing directly to the camera man and unique stage setups, added to the immersive experience. Guest appearances from Caroline Polachek, Robyn, and Yung Lean added to the excitement, showcasing the collaborative nature of Charli’s music and the sense of community among the fans.

Unforgettable Finale

As Charli closed the show with “I Love It,” the crowd experienced a full-circle moment, reminiscing on her earlier hits. The concert was not just a performance but a celebration of a culture and a feeling that transcended the music itself, leaving both Charli and the audience beaming with joy.

Charli XCX and Caroline Polachek perform at London’s O2 Arena. Henry Redcliffe

FAQs

Q: Were there any surprise guest appearances during Charli XCX’s performance?

A: Yes, Caroline Polachek, Robyn, and Yung Lean made surprise appearances, adding to the excitement of the show.

Q: How did the audience react to the finale of the concert?

A: The audience experienced a full-circle moment as Charli closed the show with “I Love It,” reminiscing on her earlier hits and celebrating the overall culture of the event.

Credit: variety.com