Lorde is back with her single What Was That?, a synth-pop track, marking the debut of her fourth album roll out. Produced by Lorde, Jim-E Stack and Dan Nigro, the single is on every paper headline. But was it is about?
What Was That? retraces the journey of a past relationship after a breakup: “And all the things we used to do […] We kissed for hours straight, well baby, what was that?”. Lorde expresses her battles, as she can’t do everyday tasks, being eaten up by her pain.
Furthermore, she explains her disappointment, for she believed that this relationship was for the long-term: “Since I was seventeen, I gave you everything. Now we wake from a dream”. The instrumental, composed of synths, and a drum kit, is minimal, putting the lyrics at the front.
Lorde’s vocal delivery is marked by her signature tone and phrasing. Her emotionality transpires with ease through her well-crafted lyrics, making us dive into her experiences. What Was That? Is a depiction of grief, and of a slow journey of recovery after a separation.
A beautiful track, to listen to!
Photo © Talia Chetrit
The Musician Insight 
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