Number 1 Angel cover

Number 1 Angel

Charli XCX · 2017

37 min · 10 tracks · hyperpop

A kaleidoscopic blend of glitchy beats and emotional vocals, weaving together themes of youth and longing in a hyperpop landscape.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Dreamer Start here — Opening the mixtape, this track encapsulates Charli's signature blend of futuristic production and catchy melodies while exploring themes of yearning and escapism.
  • →
    3AM (Pull Up) — This song captures the late-night vibe with its pulsating beat and confessional lyrics, reflecting the intimate moments of youthful spontaneity.
  • →
    Lipgloss — With its infectious hook and playful energy, this track stands out as an anthem of self-empowerment and carefree nostalgia, representing Charli's vibrant personality.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The mixtape blends experimental production with emotional vocals, marking a distinct shift in Charli XCX's artistry.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features high-energy tracks with glitchy production, while the second half shifts to more introspective themes and slower tempos.
  • Vocals often layer harmonies and effects, creating a dense soundscape that emphasizes emotional delivery over traditional melody.
  • Several tracks incorporate abrupt transitions and unconventional song structures, challenging typical pop formats.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady, consistent energy levels
  • short, immersive listening sessions
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • vibrant, upbeat mood enhancements

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This mixtape marked a significant artistic shift and wider recognition post 'Boom Clap'.
Career context
Released on January 1, 2017, 'Number 1 Angel' served as Charli XCX's first mixtape during a time of artistic redefinition following her mainstream breakthrough with 'Boom Clap.' This project showcased her shift towards a more experimental sound, setting the stage for her future work in the hyperpop genre.
Stylistic neighbors
Sophie· Dorian Electra· Kim Petras

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Blame It on U

    The chorus shifts between vulnerability and defiance, revealing a complex emotional landscape that navigates love and betrayal.

    By juxtaposing contrasting feelings within the same melodic line, the song highlights the duality of relationships, showcasing Charli's lyrical depth.

Tracklist

  • 1 Dreamer Start here 3:58
  • 2 3AM (Pull Up) 3:59
  • 3 Blame It on U 3:47
  • 4 Roll With Me 3:21
  • 5 Emotional 3:53
  • 6 Ily2 3:16
  • 7 White Roses 3:33
  • 8 Babygirl 3:53
  • 9 Drugs 3:49
  • 10 Lipgloss 3:54

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata