Lorde is making waves with her upcoming fourth solo album, titled “Virgin,” set to release on June 27. The singer-songwriter from New Zealand has already treated fans to the first single, “What Was That,” which includes callbacks to her earlier work, while the second single, “Man of the Year,” is scheduled to drop at midnight on May 29.
At a fan event in Auckland on May 27, Lorde revealed the complete track list, which features 11 songs, including titles such as “Hammer,” “Shapeshifter,” and “Favourite Daughter.” Notably, Lorde’s shift in production collaborators marks a departure from her previous work with Jack Antonoff. This time, she has teamed up with notable figures like Jim-E Stack and Dan Nigro, the latter known for his production work with Olivia Rodrigo.
Thematically, “Virgin” delves into personal experiences and growth, with Lorde describing it as somewhat of a breakup album that explores the complexities of her evolving identity. In her discussions about the album, she has referred to the songs as “rugged” and has highlighted the importance of embracing one’s true self in the lyrics, which touch on issues of body image and disordered eating.
The visuals accompanying the album are equally striking; the album cover features an X-ray of a blue pelvis, complete with details like a zipper and an IUD, symbolizing a bold exploration of the female experience. The music video for “What Was That” features Lorde traversing New York City, culminating in a vibrant gathering at Washington Square Park.
Exciting news for fans: Lorde will also embark on her Ultrasound tour starting September 17 in Austin, with multiple supporting acts like Blood Orange and Nilüfer Yanya set to join her throughout the tour.
With a fresh perspective and an evolution in her artistry, Lorde’s “Virgin” is poised to resonate deeply with listeners, reflecting a journey of authenticity and empowerment.