Charli XCX Delivers Energetic Performance at Malahide Castle

DUBLIN — British pop sensation Charli XCX performed at Malahide Castle on June 18, 2025, delivering an energetic yet somewhat restrained show to a sold-out crowd. The concert, part of her ongoing summer festival tour, showcased songs from her latest album, *Brat*, but left some fans yearning for a more climactic experience.

Charli XCX, born Charlotte Aitchison, has gained prominence for her unique blend of pop music that celebrates themes of ambition and self-empowerment. Her latest album, released in 2024, has been described as a vibrant exploration of modern womanhood. However, despite the album's acclaim, the performance at Malahide Castle did not reach the anticipated heights.

The venue, steeped in history with its 12th-century architecture, provided an atmospheric backdrop, yet Charli seemed to struggle to fully engage with her audience. "It’s so crazy to see all of these faces out here… I was kind of tired tonight, I was feeling a little low," she remarked during her set, acknowledging the challenges of her busy schedule.

The concert opened with the electrifying hit "365," followed by the shimmering track "360." While the set was punctuated with strong performances, it lacked the dynamism that fans have come to expect from Charli's shows. According to Dr. Emily Thompson, a musicologist at University College Dublin, "Charli's performances usually exhibit a vibrant connection with the audience, but this time, there was a palpable sense of fatigue, perhaps reflecting her hectic touring schedule."

The show featured favorites from her discography, including the 2017 track "Unlock It" from her critically acclaimed mixtape *Pop 2*. However, the absence of surprise guest appearances, such as her recent collaboration with New Zealand pop star Lorde at Coachella, left some fans disappointed.

Despite these shortcomings, the concert was not without its highlights. One particularly memorable moment occurred during her performance of the TikTok sensation "Apple," where Charli engaged with a young fan dressed as an apple, a moment that resonated with the crowd. The audience responded enthusiastically, showcasing their dedication to the artist.

Industry insiders have noted the significance of Charli XCX's contributions to the pop genre. Notably, music executive Sam Greene, Vice President of A&R at Warner Music, stated, "Charli has consistently pushed the boundaries of pop music, and her ability to connect with her fans is what sets her apart. Yet, production values and performance length could significantly enhance her live shows."

As the night wore on, the energy from the crowd grew, yet it remained unclear if Charli was truly feeding off that energy or merely going through the motions.

In conclusion, while Charli XCX's performance at Malahide Castle demonstrated her undeniable talent and star power, it also raised questions about the demands of a rigorous touring schedule and its impact on artists. As she prepares to play next at Ormeau Park in Belfast, fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see if she can reclaim the exhilarating energy that has become synonymous with her performances.

This concert serves as a reminder of the balance artists must navigate between their artistic aspirations and the physical toll of constant touring. With the music industry always evolving, Charli XCX's next steps will be critical in shaping her legacy in pop culture.