Boombox

On August 20th, 2021, after a four-year retreat, Lorde dropped her highly anticipated third studio album “Solar Power,” and left people divided. It has a different sound and overall feel that was unlike anything we had seen from the New Zealand singer

The edgy teen social scientist that was left behind in her debut album “Pure Heroine” had themes of growing up in suburbia with friends and navigating the world around her. Whilst in her sophomore album “Melodrama,” we see a softer, heartbroken Ella trying to move on from a relationship gone sour. And then came Solar Power; a soft indie alternative album filled with organic instruments and a sense of peace.

The album is much more mellow than the last two projects and eras. What brings the album to life is the return of Jack Antonoff who has worked with Lorde on Melodrama as well as various other artists including Taylor Swift, The 1975, Lana Del Rey, Carly Rae Jepsen, and many more iconic artists. Jack brought smooth guitars and basses to make the album and its concept pop.

After Solar Power’s release in 2021, many fans and critics were disappointed with the album Lorde and Jack created. From what I’ve gathered, they were looking for a pop album similar to Melodrama with catchy lyrics, fun, exciting production, and a somber attitude throughout.

Personally, though, I think the album is a beautiful representation of what Lorde has been up to during her hiatus. The title track “Solar Power” is excellent to encapsulate the overarching theme of the entire album; healing and self-love. Getting away from the rest of the world and exploring yourself and who you are. Though there has been much love and appreciation for the album, the general thesis is that the album is not good or trash.

However, because the world we live in right now is so pale and depressing, that’s what people begin to want and tolerate in their media. When Solar Power was released it wasn’t well received because people weren’t used to such simplicity and they didn’t give it a chance.

Another reason why Solar Power underperformed and is underrated is the competing albums of the year. Sour by Olivia Rodrigo broke records and set in motion one of the biggest debuts of the 2020s. However, it is a breakup album and with that, it is naturally more sad and angry. Happier Than Ever by Billie Eilish is another good example of why the light-heartedness of Solar Power underperformed.

People were so used to the angst and heartbreak of other albums of the year that when they gave attention to Solar Power for the first time it didn’t stick out. Especially for a comeback album after four years.

Overall, the album might not be totally happy, but it is beautiful in its clever lyrics and simplicity. It explores themes of self-love and self-exploration. Solar Power by Lorde stands in pop perfection in that it brings you out of the chaotic world and into a place of rest and healing. Take your shoes off, put your phone in the bin, and enjoy the beach!