Charli XCX is the real rock 'n' roll star of Reading Festival

Liam Gallagher has just finished singing ‘Wonderwall’ on the main stage, eruptions of flares before him, the words ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll’ behind him but as Charli XCX bursts onto the dance tent, it’s clear who has the real star power. From the opening invitation of ‘Roll With Me’, Charli has the crowd in the palm of her hand. And today, that’s a lot of people to lead. The back to back swagger of ‘I Love It’ and ‘Break The Rules’ swing fast, already securing victory, but that doesn’t stop Charli from fighting. She’s got more to give and she expects just as much back. The scattergun cuts from ‘Number 1 Angel’ have had time to settle and find their place in Charli’s ever expanding world and today they cause just as much commotion. ‘Lipgloss’ remains the eternal riot of empowerment and parade while ‘Dreamer’ dances in the spotlight. “You might not know this one but just fucking bounce with me,” she encourages. Who can resist. The rollercoaster chirp of ‘Boys’ is dedicated to Drake (“what a cutie”) but is already an anthem for the masses. It’s what Charli XCX does best. In fact, it might be all she knows how to do. There’s an undeniable shine to today’s show, in your face, perfectly balanced and delivered with a pow, but it’s more than a quick run around of great hits. There’s a purpose to having the best time. Charli is very much in love with music and that energy, passion and desire to share drives her set skywards and gets the people going.