The follow-up to any hit debut album is by no means an easy feat. Choosing to base her second release around the concept of a house party and the events that follow throughout the night, some might argue Lorde had her work cut out but most will agree that the young musician pulled it off without a doubt.
'Melodrama' charts the highs and lows of a big night. From the opening bars of 'Green Light' to the final throes of 'Perfect Places', Lorde has covered it all and it's an album that will resonate with many.
Opening track, 'Green Light', is euphoric to the core. The first cut to be released from the album, the pressure was on but this was a track built to thrill. It sees the record burst into life and it'll have you kicking and screaming, before the second track has even begun.
Continuing the brilliance on 'Sober', the track is polished, dramatic and devilishly charming - all descriptions that could easily fit Lorde herself. "We're King and Queen of the weekend/ain't a pill that could touch our rush/but what will we do when we're sober" sings the star on the chorus that serves as a timely reminder that the 20-year-old is no longer the same teenager who shot to fame on 2013's 'Pure Heroine'.
Lorde quite clearly has a knack for memorable, festival-friendly verses too. On 'The Louvre' she states: "They'll hang us in The Louvre/down the back, but who cares-still The Louvre". The track is indicative of Lorde branching out and trying bold new tactics and it paying off tenfold.
One of the album's finest moments comes in the form of 'Writer In The Dark'. A deliciously bitter anthem for those who need it, it's honest, universal and almost lullaby-like at times. The track also succeeds in blending sweet melodies with pop hooks that results in a spine-tingling moment or two.
The sad but grand 'Supercut' is also up there as a high point amongst an album brimming with highs. The sub-five minute number tells off Lorde recalling memories of a past relationship that have been condensed into a highlights reel. It's realistic and something that so many listeners will be able to relate to, after all the element of universal connection is what Lorde has always done best. Standout lyric, "In my head I do everything right" shows how selfish and flawed humans can be at times too.
Arguably one of her greatest tracks to date, Lorde completely triumphs on album closer 'Perfect Places'. It's a song that makes you want to dance in places, weep in others and grab your friends for one giant hug. It's a major bop that recalls the end of a night, feeling a little woozy and when you're at your most honest. "What the fuck are perfect places, anyway?" Lorde asks. What a superb question.
A strong contender for album of the year, 'Melodrama' proves that anyone can try their hand at writing a pop song, but few have what it takes to make a good pop tune; Lorde is, of course, one of the talented few and this album is one to be treasured.
Words Lauren Wade
