Solar Power

“Solar Power” is the third studio album by New Zealand singer-songwriter Lorde, released on 20 August 2021. It was co-produced by Lorde and American musician Jack Antonoff, marking their second collaboration after the critically acclaimed Melodrama (2017). The album represents a stylistic departure from Lorde’s earlier work, shifting away from her signature synth-heavy, dance-oriented sound toward a more acoustic and organic vibe. Described as indie folk and psychedelic pop, Solar Power leans heavily on acoustic guitar arrangements and minimalist percussion.

Lorde’s trip to Antarctica in 2019 was a major inspiration for the album, a journey documented in her June 2021 memoir Going South. The natural landscapes and isolation of the experience influenced the themes of introspection, escapism, and environmental awareness found throughout the album.

The title track, “Solar Power,” was released on a solar eclipse, followed by two other singles: “Stoned at the Nail Salon” and “Mood Ring.” The album achieved commercial success, debuting at number one in Australia and New Zealand and reaching the top 10 in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.

Lyrically, Solar Power touches on fame, the climate crisis, and reconnecting with nature. Lorde has described the album as her “weed album,” reflecting a relaxed, self-reflective period in her life. Despite this, Solar Power received polarised reviews—some praised its laid-back style, while others criticised its simplicity and perceived lack of emotional depth.

In a unique move, Lorde chose not to release Solar Power on CD due to environmental concerns, offering it digitally, via streaming platforms, and as a vinyl LP. Additionally, she released Te Ao Mārama, a Māori-language EP, as a companion project to the album.