- Emily Worth
Lorde releases third studio album ‘Solar Power’
On Aug. 20, 2021 Ella Yelich-O’Connor, better known to us as Lorde, released her third studio album entitled ‘Solar Power’; 46 minutes and 22 seconds inside the mind of this New Zealand native.
Lorde’s first two albums gained her a reputation. A reputation of being the sad, angsty young girl that many of us could relate to. It is clear that the “Royals” singer has grown quite a bit.
On track 12- titled “Oceanic Feeling,” she sings, “now the cherry black lipstick’s gathering dust in a drawer, I don’t need her anymore.” This is a clear reference to the edgy look and persona O’Connor donned during her ‘Pure Heroine’ era, which she has grown out of in the past eight years. She now presents herself to us as a mature woman who is learning to grow through her struggles.
Lorde fans have grown accustomed to slow, sad songs. Not to worry, “Stoned at the Nail Salon,” “Fallen Fruit,” “The Man with the Axe” and “Big Star'' will satisfy their craving.
However, if you’re looking for something more upbeat, this Lorde album has many choices for you. The title track “Solar Power,” “California,” “Secrets from a Girl (Who’s Seen it All)” and “Mood Ring” are great to dance to. Don’t let the initial vibe of these songs fool you – Lorde still manages to pair deep, thought provoking lyrics with these tunes.
That is part of her magic as an artist. There is always something to think about when listening to her music.
“Mood Ring” is confirmed to be a commentary piece on cultural appropriation and how spiritual practices such as meditation, burning sage, and the use of crystals are becoming more popular- without users being aware of the history, significance, or ethical issues of these practices.
“California” discusses the toxic society that you are thrust into when you become famous. “It got hard to grow up with your cool hand around my neck” is a reference to the star’s experience transitioning from a teen to an adult in an industry that is known for exploiting young artists.
While most of her material is inspired by her own life, it is still very easy for listeners to relate to her lyrics. Especially after experiencing a global pandemic. A time which caused many of us to spend a considerable amount of time alone and self-reflecting.
As a result, a lot of us are different people than we were before the pandemic and can relate when Lorde sings about her personal growth, as well as the people she knows that have changed.
That is one of the reasons this album came at such a great time. As a human race we are constantly changing our perspective and growing as individuals. This album is full of advice and insight about becoming an adult in the modern world.
Overall, this album flowed together beautifully and I am looking forward to seeing what else Lorde does in this era of her career.
