What makes Focus / No Angel by Charli XCX notable?

This double single was instrumental in solidifying Charli XCX's status as a key figure in the hyperpop movement, receiving praise for its genre-blurring sound. Critics highlighted the tracks' bold production choices and catchy hooks, which helped set the stage for her subsequent critically acclaimed projects. Released in 2018, Focus / No Angel marked Charli XCX's first major project after her 2017 mixtape, Number 1 Angel. At this point in her career, she was transitioning from a mainstream pop star to an avant-garde innovator within the hyperpop scene, showcasing her evolution as an artist.

How many songs are on Focus / No Angel?

Focus / No Angel has 2 tracks, running approximately 6 minutes.

Focus / No Angel

Charli XCX · 2018

6 min · 2 tracks · hyperpop

A vibrant blend of futuristic pop and experimental sounds, encapsulating the essence of hyperpop's playful chaos.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Focus — The track opens with glitchy synths and a pulsating beat that immediately encapsulates the experimental nature of hyperpop while showcasing Charli's distinctive vocal style.
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No Angel — This song combines playful lyrics with a danceable rhythm, embodying the carefree yet subversive spirit of Charli's artistic direction during this period.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The single showcases bold production and playful chaos, marking Charli XCX's innovative approach in hyperpop.

What we noticed

Both tracks feature rapid tempo changes and layered vocal harmonies, creating a sense of urgency and playfulness.
The production employs glitchy electronic elements and unconventional song structures, typical of hyperpop's experimental nature.
Each track includes abrupt transitions that shift between different musical ideas, keeping the listener engaged.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single solidified Charli's status in the hyperpop movement, gaining wider recognition.
Themes: futuristic pop chaos· subversive dance anthems
Career context: Released in 2018, Focus / No Angel marked Charli XCX's first major project after her 2017 mixtape, Number 1 Angel. At this point in her career, she was transitioning from a mainstream pop star to an avant-garde innovator within the hyperpop scene, showcasing her evolution as an artist.
Stylistic neighbors: Sophie· Dorian Electra· Kim Petras