By LELA JENKINS – Features Writer
Alternative pop singer Lorde brings a unique sound to the music industry with the release of her new album, Pure Heroine, on Sept. 30.
16-year-old New Zealand singer Ella Yelich-O’Connor, stage name Lorde, has recently added a new voice to the alternative pop industry with the release of her first full-length album, Pure Heroine.
Released Sept. 30, Pure Heroine features 10 tracks of modern techno beats paired with the fresh, dynamic voice of Lorde herself. Each track has several overlays of Lorde’s strong voice, creating a fresh reverb unprecedented in its genre. The techno beats also range from slow and smooth to more steady and fast-paced, all of which have a deep bass resounding through the heart.
Lorde was first introduced to the music industry with the release of her EP The Love Club and with her hit single “Royals”, which topped Billboard charts. Lorde’s mature voice, singing of a life without luxury or love, surprised the ears of millions across the nation. Described by some as a mix between the voice of Adele and Ellie Goulding, Lorde’s voice combines soul with just the right amount of eccentric quirks.
In Pure Heroine, Lorde continues to sing about this theme of fighting for a place in society and its importance in her life. In songs like “400 Lux” and “White Teeth Teens” Lorde sings to a steady, electric beat simply stating the difference between her life and the lives of wealthier people.
Lorde’s life, as explained through her in-depth lyrics, has been much like any teenager’s. She struggles with feeling important as she does everyday things as she hangs out with her friends, constantly having a life of luxury on the back of her mind.
The contrast between the qualities of Lorde’s voice and the clear themes of her music create a distinct, modernistic harmony to the ears of America.The life Lorde sings of is effortless, revolving around friends and family, while her voice is dulcet and powerful, filled with emotion. Common pop songs on America’s radio stations might speak of lust or a night out at the club, but Lorde’s songs go deeper as she questions her and her friends place in society.
Lorde is a prodigee with an unprecedented sound and fresh, alternative voice. She sings of issues any teenager could relate to yet maintains the sound of much older artists in the same genre. Lorde’s sound consists of a voice that is just what America’s pop radio stations have been craving, as well as a meaning any young adult can find themselves relating to.
