Kendrick Lamar is leading the UK albums chart midweek update.

The rapper's third album 'To Pimp A Butterfly' was released recently in the country and the Official Charts Company have confirmed today (March 18) that it is No.1.

The record is nearly 3,000 units ahead of nearest rival Mark Knopfler, whose fellow new entry 'Tracker' is in at No.2.

If Lamar stays put come Sunday (March 22), the US star will have bagged his first UK No.1 album.

At No.3 on the midweek update meanwhile is Sam Smith's 'In The Lonely Hour', whilst Ed Sheeran's 'x' follows at No.4.

Completing the top five is Van Morrison's new effort 'Duets - Reworking the Catalogue'.

Marina and The Diamonds is a new entry at No.6 with 'Froot' and Bjork's 'Vulnicura' is No.10 after getting its long-awaited physical release.

Sleeping With Sirens' 'Madness' is No.20 whilst The Veronicas are a new entry at No.29 with their self-titled third record.

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