Charli XCX has released a new album, Music, Fashion, Film, after intending to take a break following the major success of Brat. Written quickly over several weeks, its 11 short, guitar-led songs reflect on the intense two years that followed her career-defining previous record and signal a deliberate move away from repeating its dance-pop formula.

Despite suggestions of a “rock reinvention”, Charli says the album is not a rejection of electronic or club music, which remains central to her artistic identity. Its title and imagery emphasise art, excellence and legacy: the black-and-white cover features musician John Cale, designer Marc Jacobs and director Martin Scorsese, representing the three fields named in the album.