Charli xcx and Troye Sivan’s Sweat tour review – a pop triumph
Madison Square Garden, New York – On an electrifying night that featured an array of special guests, Troye Sivan and Charli XCX took the stage, transforming the arena into a high-energy party that captivated the audience.
Earlier this year, their announcement of a joint headlining arena tour felt like a match made in pop heaven. Both Sivan, a vibrant pop sensation, and Charli, the dynamic British artist, are not only longtime friends but also collaborators with fresh music to share. They excel at crafting catchy tunes that celebrate nightlife, resonating particularly well with their largely queer fanbases. Together, they are set to elevate their status in the music world to that of arena superstars.
Then came Charli’s album “Brat,” an unapologetic and bold collection released in June, which quickly became the soundtrack of the summer. It resonated deeply with her devoted fans, propelling Charli to viral fame as tracks from the album found their way onto wedding playlists in cities like New York and LA. Fast forward to Monday night at Madison Square Garden, where the crowd showcased a striking mix of “city sewer slut” black and brat green—a color now internet-famous and even influencing political campaigns as we look ahead to 2024.
The concert, aptly themed “Sweat,” unfolded over a rollercoaster two-plus hours, delivering loud, vibrant pop that perfectly captured the duo’s distinct personalities. Still, it raised questions about the sometimes awkward dynamics of fame: when there are two powerhouse performers on stage, but only one is truly resonating with the audience at that moment. How can music designed for a club—intended for a hot, sticky atmosphere—translate to the sterile expanse of a massive arena? It felt almost incongruous to experience Charli’s music while seated. The long-time LGBTQ supporters mingled with newer fans, some of whom were only familiar with a handful of hits but were willing to invest thousands in tickets.
When does something edgy and self-reflective lose its cool factor as it gains popularity? Charli has touched on this anxiety in interviews and through her music, yet she appeared undeterred as she commanded the stage. The concert effortlessly intertwined Sivan’s polished tracks with Charli’s edgier selections, creating a festival-like pop atmosphere. “I never really saw this for myself, but bitch I proved them fuckin’ wrong,” Charli proclaimed before launching into “Sympathy is a knife,” a track that playfully calls out a fellow pop star, highlighting the competitive aspect of the industry.
After a flamboyant era characterized by extravagant productions, Charli returned to her roots: just a microphone, sleek black sunglasses, and an undeniable stage presence that invited the audience into a rave-like experience, hitting all the right notes for her passionate supporters. On the other hand, Sivan opted for a more restrained approach, incorporating gentle choreography and sensual moments as he delivered his hits with sophistication.
Although the show was marketed as a dual performance, it often felt like a Charli concert. The minimalist stage design resonated with her indie sleaze aesthetic, keeping Charli’s world at the forefront, especially when guests like Addison Rae made her live debut with “Diet Pepsi,” leading to the evening’s zenith when Lorde joined Charli on stage for a remix of “Girl.” Their performance represented a cathartic culmination of the “Brat” era.
As the curtains fell, the energy outside Madison Square Garden didn’t wane. Fans gathered for an impromptu mini-rave, staying immersed in the celebratory vibe. The party, it appears, is just getting started, with its momentum showing no signs of slowing down.