As Charli XCX ramps up for the release of her third studio album, the British singer-songwriter has become a force to be reckoned with. Charli XCX is the type of artist whose push into the spotlight can be tracked, starting with a list of songwriting credits including Ryn Weaver’s “Octahate,” a feature spot on Iggy Azalea’s viral hit “Fancy” and a surprise smash on “Fault In Our Stars” soundtrack with “Boom Clap,” Charli XCX’s fame has been a steady rise upwards.

Her edgy style, knack for hook writing and undeniable sense of confidence made her follow up to her lesser-known debut “True Romance,” “Sucker” so much better than a typical pop record.

Finally in a comfortable spot within the industry, Charli XCX’s ability to experiment with a variety of sounds has only expanded. Queue the release of her Extended Play, “Vroom Vroom.”

Under a newly self-created label, Vroom Vroom Recordings, Charli XCX’s latest endeavor is a rhythmic electronica culmination, driven home by pop-inflections courtesy of Charli XCX’s one of a kind personality. The EP excels, on multiple levels, as Charli XCX further elaborates her brand and personality. Each of the tracks off of “Vroom Vroom” is entertainingly appealing, even if there is some absence of meaning. “Vroom Vroom” pairs Charli XCX’s gritty synth-pop sound with music destined for a nightclub to create something that is truly amusing.

The namesake and lead single off of the EP, “Vroom Vroom” best exemplifies Charli XCX’s sugary bad girl persona. Reminiscent of Alison Wonderland, the track is a thumping, snare-filled banger that could make even the most exhausted listener feel wide-awake.
Fueled through jolting electronic beats, other tracks like “Paradise” and “Secret (Shh)” are just as good. “Paradise” is a blissful culmination of ballad-like melodies courtesy of featured vocalist Hannah Diamond with zipping synths that are sure to win over audiences across the board. “Secret (Shh)” is more along the lines of typical pop music, but is still a nice conclusion to the EP’s short playtime.

The EP’s best track can be found with the swirling “Trophy.” Most similar in style to “Sucker,” Charli XCX’s “Trophy” is a chanting hip-hop driven track with all of the flash of a strobe light. It’s the type of track that can amp up its listener, the type of song that holds so much potential for a remix and the type of melody that drips with high levels of intoxicating promise. If this is a new dimension of Charli XCX’s sound, it’s a welcomed one.

Overall, Charli XCX’s provides a look into the young artist’s future. “Vroom Vroom” is great fun, with great tunes that only seek to entertain, rather than move the listener. But, with all of the emotive, monumental tracks produced daily, this EP is certainly stands out. And with nowhere to go but up, Charli XCX should experience continued successes with “Vroom Vroom” only adding to her extensive repertoire.

Rating: 4 out of 5