Lorde Announces "Ultrasound" World Tour and New Album "Virgin"
After a four-year hiatus, the acclaimed alt-pop artist Lorde is back with a bang, announcing her highly anticipated new album, "Virgin," and a sprawling world tour, "The Ultrasound Tour," set to captivate audiences across North America and Europe. The news has sent waves of excitement through her dedicated fanbase, eager to experience her evolved sound and dynamic stage presence once again.
The "Ultrasound Tour" is slated to begin on September 17th in Austin, Texas, marking the start of a 21-city North American leg. Fans across the continent will have the opportunity to witness Lorde perform her new material and beloved classics in cities like Nashville, Toronto, St. Louis, Minneapolis, and Las Vegas. The tour will then culminate in a final North American performance in Seattle on October 22nd, before Lorde embarks on the European leg of the tour.
Tickets for the North American shows will be available through a presale starting on May 14th at 10 a.m. local time, followed by a general on-sale on May 16th at 10 a.m. local time, both accessible through Lorde’s official website. Given the artist’s immense popularity and the anticipation surrounding her return, fans are advised to secure their tickets promptly to avoid disappointment.
Adding to the excitement, Lorde will be joined by a stellar lineup of supporting acts for the North American leg of the tour. Blood Orange, known for their experimental R&B and soulful soundscapes, will bring their unique energy to select dates. Japanese House, the indie-pop project of Amber Bain, will also grace the stage, offering their dreamy melodies and introspective lyrics. Chanel Beads, an emerging artist known for blending experimental electronica with infectious pop sensibilities, will add another layer of sonic diversity to the tour. Finally, Empress Of, whose synth-pop anthems and empowering messages have resonated with audiences worldwide, will complete the impressive roster of supporting acts. These collaborations promise to create an unforgettable concert experience for fans, showcasing a diverse range of talent within the indie and alternative music scenes.
The European leg of the tour will feature Jim-E Stack, a renowned producer known for his innovative electronic soundscapes and collaborations with various artists, and Oklou, a French artist celebrated for her ethereal vocals and avant-garde pop productions. These additions further solidify the tour’s commitment to showcasing cutting-edge talent and providing audiences with a diverse and immersive musical experience.
In addition to the tour announcement, Lorde has unveiled details about her upcoming album, "Virgin," scheduled for release on June 27th. The album marks a significant departure from her previous work, signaling a bold new direction in her artistic journey. "Virgin" is expected to showcase a more pronounced pop sound, contrasting with the indie folk-pop vibe of her previous album, "Solar Power."
The first single from "Virgin," titled "What Was That," has already made a splash, hitting No. 1 on Spotify and marking Lorde’s first time topping the platform’s chart since her breakthrough hit, "Royals," over a decade ago. The song, produced by Jim-E Stack and Dan Nigro, showcases Lorde’s signature songwriting prowess and her ability to craft captivating melodies with introspective lyrics.
The music video for "What Was That" offers a glimpse into Lorde’s artistic vision for the album. The visually striking video follows Lorde as she walks and bikes through the vibrant streets of New York City, eventually culminating in a frenzied gathering of fans in Washington Square Park. The video captures the energy and excitement surrounding her return, as well as the deep connection she shares with her devoted fanbase.
Lorde’s previous album, "Solar Power," released in 2021, explored themes of nature, spirituality, and her life in New Zealand. The album’s introspective lyrics and mellow soundscapes resonated with many listeners, but "Virgin" is expected to showcase a different side of Lorde’s artistry, embracing a more energetic and experimental pop sound.
Her most recent tour, a worldwide jaunt in 2022-23, supported the release of "Solar Power" and saw Lorde performing to sold-out crowds across the globe. Fans who attended those shows were treated to a mesmerizing visual experience and a setlist that blended her new material with beloved classics from her previous albums. The "Ultrasound Tour" promises to be an even more ambitious and immersive experience, showcasing Lorde’s growth as an artist and her commitment to pushing creative boundaries.
Lorde’s return to the music scene is a significant event for both her fans and the industry as a whole. Her unique blend of introspective lyrics, captivating melodies, and experimental soundscapes has solidified her place as one of the most influential and innovative artists of her generation. With the release of "Virgin" and the launch of "The Ultrasound Tour," Lorde is poised to embark on a new chapter in her career, captivating audiences with her evolved sound and dynamic stage presence. The anticipation surrounding her return is palpable, and fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to experience her artistry once again. The "Ultrasound Tour" promises to be a celebration of music, creativity, and the enduring connection between Lorde and her dedicated fanbase.
