Just when you thought brat summer was over, English singer-songwriter Charli XCX released the third version of her chart-topping album “Brat,” titled “Brat and it’s completely different but also still brat.”
The original “Brat” album took the internet by storm this past summer with viral dances and the phrase “That’s so brat.” As fans wondered how Charli could top the success of the original and deluxe versions, this new release offered something entirely fresh.
“Brat and it’s completely different” features a new artist on every track, from Ariana Grande to Coraline Polachek. Each collaboration feels intentional, as Charli reinvents the songs with updated lyrics and new perspectives, making this more of a ‘sister’ album than a typical album of remixes.
It’s important to note the different contexts in which the albums were released. The original “Brat” album came out in June, when Charli’s popularity was still rising from most of her recognition pre-Brat came from mainstream hit singles, while this latest version arrived in October, with Charli now at the peak of her fame. The growth in her status reflects the distinct energy between the two albums.
One standout track from the remix album is “Sympathy is a knife,” originally about the toxic cycle of supporting someone who feeds into your insecurities. The new version, featuring Ariana Grande, shifts the focus to media judgment and public sympathy. Given Grande’s personal experiences in her spotlight, her voice adds layers of meaning to the track.
Fans noted that Grande doesn’t belt out high notes or deliver powerhouse vocals on the song, as she normally does on her own tracks. This restraint feeds into the song’s theme of resisting public expectations, making her performance all the more impactful.
Another reimagined track is “Everything is romantic.” The original version is playful and glamorous, celebrating the highs of partying and love. In the new version, featuring Caroline Polachek, the tone is more introspective. The lyrics shift from carefree:
“Bad tattoos on leather-tanned skin,
Jesus Christ on a plastic sign,
Fall in love again and again,
Winding roads, doing manual drive”
to reflective:
“I knew that you would relate,
I feel smothered by logistics,
Need my fingerprints on everything,
Trying to feed my relationship,
Am I in a slump?
Am I playing back time?
Did I lose my perspective?
Everything’s still romantic, right?”
The song now captures a longing for the excitement of the past, showing how much has changed.
Charli’s ability to reimagine a remix album is what sets “Brat and it’s completely different” apart. It’s a true game–changer. While there are many notable differences between the two albums, it’s definitely worth a listen-not for the artist, but for the artistry behind it.
With over 18 million streams on Spotify within four days of its release, the album has already earned praise from fans and fellow artists alike. It’s a testament to Charli’s artistry– and yes, it’s still very brat.