American rock pioneers of the 1960s bloc
Charli xcx has released Music, Fashion, Film, a 11-track project that blends electronic textures with guitar-driven moments. The artist has explained the release as a reflection on creativity, identity, and the pressures of fame, with responses to Brat and earlier projects.
A wave of new music sees artists blending genres and asserting creative independence. From Labrinth’s Cosmic Opera Act II to FLO’s Therapy at the Club and Shaboozey’s country-infused album, creators push for control over their work while embracing broader collaborations.
William Orbit, the London-born producer behind Madonna’s Ray of Light, has died at home on 23 July. His work spans Torch Song, Bassomatic, Beth Orton, Blur and All Saints, reshaping late-90s pop with electronic textures. Tributes have poured in from peers and artists who collaborated with him.
Barry Mitchell, Queen’s second bassist during the band’s formative period in 1970–1971, has died. Mitchell played 13 gigs before leaving the group and later reflected that he wasn’t enthusiastic about their music at the time. He subsequently played with Tiger and left a legacy celebrated by fans and fellow musicians.