As we do our best to stray away from a world of neglect and negativity, we need more art that tackles hard topics in order for them to become a normalized topic in real conversation. Masculinity from a feminine POV, gender identity, body image, personal trauma, are all hard topics that Lorde nails on the head in her 3rd album, Virgin. This album is beautiful in its pacing, sound design, and execution.

This album is comprised of eleven tracks, multiple of which have become sensations on social media. This album debuted at No. 1 on the UK album chart, Australia album chart, and even the New Zealand album chart, her home country. The album sold 71,000 album units in the first week.

The biggest takeaway fans have from this album; is the way Lorde is reinventing her style. She is more often known as a “party artist” and for creating music that doesn’t really dive into any real topics, therefore easier to digest, while virgin on the other hand is more creative and esoteric. The focus on identity and transformation creates a coherent backbone which connects to the cover, the name, and the boldness of the sound design.

Electronic musical instruments are some of the most difficult to master, but Lorde does it flawlessly. The emotional resonance comes from the original production with glitchy and abrasive sounds. Not everyone enjoys the sound and vibe of the album due to its loud and coarse nature, but the impact behind it and the way that it hits you once you get into it makes it so worth it. Lorde creates a space where relatability thrives, and people can feel a sense of community through a simple album.

Overall, Lorde is a genius artist that knows how to touch her audience with her words. She has come a long way from being a party artist and having little to no depth, to a beautiful arthouse type of album that makes people feel heard, related too, and emotionally understood.