XXL cover

XXL

Mylène Farmer · 1995

19 min · 4 tracks · pop music

A pulsating blend of dark pop and dance music, layered with haunting vocals and intricate synth arrangements.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    XXL (single version) — This track serves as the flagship representation of the album, combining catchy hooks and atmospheric production that encapsulate Farmer's unique sound.
  • →
    XXL (Distorded dance mix) — The distorted dance mix elevates the original with an energetic reimagining that reflects the era's club culture, appealing to a broad audience.
  • →
    XXL (Extra Large remix) — This remix offers a fresh perspective on the hit, enhancing its rhythmic elements while preserving the haunting quality of Farmer's vocals.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100
Treeline
Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong production and distinct vocals but varies in cohesion across its remixes.

What we noticed

  • The single version of 'XXL' features a driving beat and layered synths that create a dense soundscape, while the remixes explore different rhythmic interpretations.
  • Each remix varies in tempo and arrangement, with the Distorded dance mix emphasizing a more aggressive bassline compared to the original.
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
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Established Mylène Farmer's reputation with a commercial hit and innovative sound.
Themes
dark club culture· French pop evolution· haunting dance beats
Moods
Ethereal· Dark
Career context
By the time 'XXL' was released in September 1995, Mylène Farmer was already a notable figure in the French pop scene, having achieved significant commercial success with her previous album, 'Anamorphosée.' This single represented a shift toward more dance-oriented sounds, showcasing her ability to adapt while maintaining her signature ethereal style. The release came during her peak popularity, marking her dominance in the French music charts.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 XXL (single version) 4:26
  • 2 XXL (Distorded dance mix) 5:22
  • 3 XXL (Extra Large remix) 5:03
  • 4 XXL (New remix edit) 4:28

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata