Lorde, Perfect Places | Track Review 🎵

Lorde returns with “Perfect Places,” the third single from her sophomore album, ‘Melodrama.’

Early in 2017, alternative pop artist Lorde got off to a quick start promoting her sophomore album, Melodrama.  Single “Green Light” showed the Grammy-winner in a more commercial light, while “Liability” showcased her ballad chops.  After a lengthy period of time elapsed, the Kiwi musician restarted the promo campaign dropping single “Perfect Places.” It was certainly worth the wait.

“Perfect Places” features an excellent groove, though nothing too crazy. The record opens with a sense of mysteriousness initially, best explained by its suspect, party vibe.  This sentiment comes through loud and clear during the first verse as Lorde sings:

“Every night, I live and die
Feel the party to my bones
Watch the wasters blow the speakers
Spill my guts beneath the outdoor light.”

The second verse confirms the carefree, unapologetic party vibes. This verse, in particular, feels sexually-charged:

“Every night, I live and die
Meet somebody, take ‘em home
Let’s kiss and then take off our clothes
It’s just another graceless night…”

The production work is spare on the verses. This allows for Lorde’s voice to shine. Her raspy pipes remain as distinct as ever.  She and the accompanying production do an excellent job of building up to the chorus. The addition of synths and the peaks of the melodic line are pros.  The pre-chorus expectedly sets up a grand chorus.

“Are you lost enough?
Have another drink, get lost in us
This is how we get notorious, oh
‘Cause I don’t know
If they keep tellin’ me where to go
I’ll blow my brains out to the radio, oh.”

If “Perfect Places” comes off mysterious initially, the major key shines through on the chorus.  In addition to the brightness of the chorus, the vocal mix is a selling point.  The energy is electric:

“All of the things we’re taking
‘Cause we are young and we’re ashamed
Send us to perfect places
All of our heroes fading
Now I can’t stand to be alone
Let’s go perfect places.”

Final Thoughts

“Perfect Places” rolls on in its glory, more often than not.  The addition of rhythmic guitar gives the record an 80s sensibility, which is never a bad thing.  Lorde closes singing in her lower register, accompanied by piano.  Also, she drops the bomb – the f-bomb that is:  “Trying to find these perfect places / What the fuck are perfect places anyways?” All in all, she has another compelling record on her hands.  Melodrama should be intriguing, to say the least.

Lorde • Melodrama • Republic • Release: 6.16.17

Photo Credit: Republic