Lorde, the enigmatic pop sensation whose music captivates both the heart and mind, has recently delighted her loyal fanbase with the release of her new single “What Was That.” Following her last album, *Solar Power*, in 2021, the anticipation surrounding her return has been palpable. Longtime fans were able to reel in their excitement as the artist teased her comeback during a surprise performance at Washington Square Park, a setting as vibrant and alive as her melodies. This surprise appearance not only reignited the flame of her artistry but also beckoned an era dubbed the “Lorde summer,” as foretold by fellow artist Charli XCX at Coachella.
This new track possesses an alluring mixture of retro synth-pop energy reminiscent of *Melodrama*, while simultaneously hinting at Lorde’s artistic evolution. It’s a fascinating balancing act that showcases her mastery of blending personal narratives with universal themes. In an era where artists often lean heavily on collaborations and viral trends, Lorde remains steadfast in honoring her original essence while embracing change, making her output uniquely thrilling each time.
Raw Emotion: The Heart of “What Was That”
Stepping into “What Was That,” listeners are immediately invited into the inner workings of Lorde’s psyche. The lyrics serve not only as a reflection of her relationships but as an exploration of youth, longing, and fragments of love that linger well beyond their expiration. Lines like “I wear smoke like a wedding veil” paint a vivid, almost surreal image that makes us ponder the complexity of memories tied to love and loss. It’s a poignant reminder that our past connections, however fleeting, leave deep impressions woven into the fabric of who we are.
Critically, the song’s structure allows for emotional peaks and valleys that encapsulate the chaos of youthful passions. The chorus’ infectious energy—“MDMA in the back garden, blow our pupils up”—illustrates a carefree revelry that oscillates between bliss and pain, diving headfirst into the exhilarating yet precarious state of young love. Lorde’s ability to layer these dual feelings with vocal nuance and lyrical introspection captures the essence of the human experience in a way few artists can.
Teasing a New Chapter
With “What Was That,” Lorde doesn’t just revisit her past; she expertly teases a promising future. The artistry in this track is evident—not just in the lyrics but in the production choices as well. The synthy pop feel echoes back to her earlier work while simultaneously charting a path toward a fresh identity. This hybrid style speaks volumes about her evolution as an artist who refuses to be boxed in by a singular genre or label.
Additionally, by engaging in artistic conversations with other musicians—like her featured role in Charli XCX’s *Girl, so confusing*—Lorde demonstrates her versatility and willingness to collaborate. This openness hints that her upcoming work may reflect both the great, expansive soundscapes of synth-pop and deeper, quieter moments of introspection. The excitement surrounding this potential shift is electrifying; it signals a time for exploration and redirection, all encapsulated in Lorde’s unique narrative voice.
The Impact of Mental Health in Art
Amid the vibrant melodies and catchy hooks, there’s an undercurrent that speaks volumes about mental health—an aspect Lorde has not shied away from addressing in the past. Her willingness to confront these often-taboo subjects only adds depth to the already rich tapestry of her art. Lines that process emotional trauma and memory suggest a keen awareness of mental well-being, undeniably resonating with listeners navigating similar paths.
As she takes her audience on this emotional journey through sound, Lorde becomes more than an artist; she transforms into a confidante. Her music invites us to sit with our own feelings, compelling us to examine the relationships in our lives—both platonic and romantic—and how they shape our perceptions.
This openness is vital, especially in today’s landscape where mental health discussions are entering public discourse. As she continues to evolve, we must appreciate the vital role artists like Lorde play in making these conversations more prevalent and accessible. In this sense, her music transcends entertainment, acting as a catalyst for personal and communal reflection.
Touched with nostalgia and poised for reinvention, “What Was That” embodies the very essence of Lorde—a blend of visceral honesty, musical ingenuity, and the promise of something beautiful on the horizon. As fans dive headfirst into this new single, the anticipation for what’s next in this ongoing narrative grows, reminding us all that the journey is just as important as the destination.