Wuthering Heights a perfect pivot for Charli XCX, says co-writer

Wuthering Heights a perfect pivot for Charli XCX, says co-writer

Finn Keane, a songwriter closely associated with Charli XCX, has described working on the soundtrack for the film adaptation of Emily Brontë’s *Wuthering Heights* as an ideal artistic shift following their successful album *Brat*. Having collaborated on many previous projects—including the Grammy-winning track “Von Dutch”—Keane noted that the darker tone of the soundtrack provided a refreshing contrast to the energetic electro and dance vibes of *Brat*, which had sparked a vibrant cultural trend in 2024.

The idea for the *Wuthering Heights* soundtrack first came to them while touring the remix album for *Brat*. What began as a consideration of one song soon evolved into the decision to create an entire album, fueled by Charli XCX’s enthusiasm and inspiration. Keane explained how the pair would use any spare time during their tour to write and record new music, sometimes working in hotel rooms or studios. Their goal was to explore a new sound far removed from the dance floor, delving into orchestral and gothic elements that amplified the haunting atmosphere of the film.

To achieve the desired aesthetic, the soundtrack incorporated classical instruments recorded at Abbey Road Studios, with Keane himself contributing by experimenting with the violin—despite not being an expert player. “There’s a lot of me playing a really cheap, small violin,” he admitted, describing his scratches and raspy notes as intentionally raw additions to the score. They also drew inspiration from legendary Welsh musician John Cale, who lent his voice to “House,” the album’s lead single, enhancing the emotional impact of the music.

Keane emphasized how this project differed from the *Brat* album, aiming to craft songs that felt simultaneously like strong standalone tracks and integral film scores, deeply tied to the narrative’s emotional core. He praised the film itself as visually stunning and darkly beautiful, encouraging viewers to experience it in a cinema setting—and with a warning: “Go see it in the cinema, just don’t go with your parents, take a date.” The film premiered in UK cinemas on 13 February, with Charli XCX’s accompanying soundtrack released the same day

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