Charli XCX shares reflective new single 'Camera' with video directed by Aidan Zamiri and starring Vincent Cassel

Charli XCX has just dropped a new single called 'Camera', a reflection on her insecurities about embracing an acting career. The track is out now, accompanied by a video directed by Aidan Zamiri and starring Vincent Cassel. The video is a darkly comedic take on the pressures of the film industry, with Cassel as an actor struggling on a film set, while Charli directs from behind a massive studio camera. This one na levels - the creative vision is on point, and it's clear that Charli is pushing herself in a new direction.

'Camera' marks a departure from Charli's earlier work, a move away from the harder club sounds associated with 'Brat' towards something hazier and more personal. The track is a restrained, mid-tempo slice of guitar-led electronic pop, and it's clear that Charli is taking a more introspective approach to her music. The lyrics are a deeply personal exploration of her insecurities about acting, and the fears that come with stepping outside her comfort zone. Here's the thing - this is an album cut from a more refined Charli, one who's not afraid to experiment and explore new sounds.

The video, too, is a collaborative effort between Charli and director Aidan Zamiri, a longstanding collaborator who's worked on several of her music videos. Zamiri's brought his signature style to the project, and it pays off in spades. Vincent Cassel, meanwhile, is an actor known for his intense performances in films like 'La Haine' and 'Eastern Promises'. He brings a level of gravitas to the video, and his character's frustration is palpable. It's a clever move on Charli's part to cast someone as respected as Cassel in the video - it adds an extra layer of depth to the project.

'Camera' is just the latest preview of Charli's new album 'Music, Fashion, Film', which drops this Friday, July 24, via Atlantic. It's been a busy few months for Charli - she's been performing at intimate pop-up shows, including a recent Brooklyn gig where she debuted 'Camera' live. She's also been talking about her experiences in Paris with Madonna, where the pair appeared to put an end to speculation about a feud. Charli's found the experience "very inspiring", and it's clear that she's been influenced by her time with the Queen of Pop.

It's all building up to a big summer for Charli, with a headline debut at Reading & Leeds next month and a North American arena tour with Underscores in September. With 'Camera', she's shown that she's not afraid to experiment and take risks - and it's paid off in a big way. This is a new chapter for Charli, and it's one that's looking very exciting indeed.