#96 – Pure Heroine by Lorde

Journey Through Apple Music’s Top 100 Albums: #96 – Pure Heroine by Lorde

Welcome back to our ongoing exploration of Apple Music’s Top 100 Albums of All Time! Today, we’re delving into album #96: Pure Heroine by Lorde. Released in 2013, this debut album catapulted Lorde into the spotlight with its distinctive sound and introspective lyrics. Let’s break down each track and share our thoughts.

1. Tennis Court

Lorde’s talent is undeniable, but listening to an album for the first time years after its release can lead to unintended comparisons. “Tennis Court” is a good song, but it sounds similar to much of the pop music that followed it. Rating: 7/10

2. 400 Lux

“400 Lux” is a cool track, though it doesn’t stand out particularly. It’s the kind of song I’d put on in the background while winding down or trying to sleep. Rating: 5/10

3. Royals

This mainstream hit is incredibly catchy and remains enjoyable. “Royals” offers a critique of the parasocial relationships we have with celebrities, reflecting on the dream of fanfare. It’s a smart, engaging song that still resonates. Rating: 7/10

4. Ribs

Another good song, “Ribs” doesn’t have a standout element that makes it jump out. It’s solid but not spectacular. Rating: 6/10

5. Buzzcut Season

I enjoyed how “Buzzcut Season” was put together. It has a lighter feel compared to other tracks, which I found refreshing. Rating: 7/10

6. Team

“Team” boasts the best flow and overall structure on the album. The beat is captivating and keeps you engaged from start to finish. In my opinion, it’s the best song on the album. Rating: 8/10

7. Glory and Gore

“Glory and Gore” had moments where I hoped for a beat drop, and it delivered a few times. It’s an enjoyable track with a good balance of intensity. Rating: 7/10

8. Still Sane

This track feels like it was made for a movie or TV show. It’s a slow, purposeful song that adds depth to the album. Rating: 6/10

9. White Teeth Teens

You can hear Lorde’s influence on contemporary pop music throughout this album. Elements from “White Teeth Teens” have clearly inspired artists like Billie Eilish and Olivia Rodrigo. I liked the added cymbal beat towards the end of the song—a cool touch. Rating: 7/10

10. A World Alone

“A World Alone” is a good end to the album. While the entire album is solid, it lacks any truly groundbreaking moments. This song is a vibe but not something I’d repeatedly listen to. Rating: 7/10

Overall Rating: 6.5/10

Pure Heroine is a solid debut album that showcases Lorde’s unique style and introspective songwriting. While it may not be groundbreaking, it has certainly influenced the pop music landscape. Join us next time as we continue our journey through Apple Music’s Top 100 Albums!