Pure Heroine
by Lorde
User Score
8.9

Universal acclaim- based on 1392 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,291 out of 1392
  2. Mixed: 45 out of 1392
  3. Negative: 56 out of 1392
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  1. All_ButTrU4
    Mar 14, 2021
    7
    This us a great debut from the new Zealand native. The dark pop songs and skilled lyricism create a purely original output that will stand the test of time and act as a precursor of the greatness that is to come. From the cross over hits to the scathing critiques of pop culture this is a zietgist of an entire generation. Favourites: 400lux,buzzcut season, world alone
  2. marcmyworks
    Nov 13, 2013
    9
    Probably the best album of 2013. Lorde's sound can not be matched as she proves at 16 she is a true original. Download: Glory and Gore, Team, Tennis Court, 400 Lux.
  3. Muddsjr
    May 8, 2014
    8
    To put it simply, Pure Heroin is rather too stripped down for it to be a total mind-blowing pop album, however what Pure Heroin IS in fact is an album of meaningful lyrics and great tunes at their own steady pace that Lorde decides to take. And at no point, does it overdo itself.
  4. Panchogul
    Sep 17, 2020
    7
    Es increíble que Lorde a su corta edad por aquel entonces haya hecho un álbum tan sólido y bien estructurado, sin embargo, ninguna canción logró capturarme del todo.
  5. adhamhany
    Jan 11, 2014
    10
    I can't believe i didn't hear this album until today.

    Very smart lyrics. The minimalist music gives room for Lorde to showcase her singing, which is a pleasure to the ears. Not to mention that, in its own right, the music itself is pretty gorgeous.

    Of course, some tracks are forgettable. But the majority here is amazing tracks. This is easily one of the best albums released in 2013.
  6. Wael
    Apr 22, 2017
    10
    I am now realizing, with 'Melodrama' coming up, that I haven't properly reviewed 'Pure Heroine'. Now, let me make it crystal clear: Lorde's debut LP is one of my top 3 albums of all time until now, and it's easy to say, very objectively, that it is one of the most well-done records in recent history. Lorde's earth-shattering minimal vocals sway back and forth to beautifully producedI am now realizing, with 'Melodrama' coming up, that I haven't properly reviewed 'Pure Heroine'. Now, let me make it crystal clear: Lorde's debut LP is one of my top 3 albums of all time until now, and it's easy to say, very objectively, that it is one of the most well-done records in recent history. Lorde's earth-shattering minimal vocals sway back and forth to beautifully produced alternative beats and all of that adds up to make a beautifully-crafted solid debut, all coming from an 18 year-old whose lyrics are deeper and more mature than anyone else's. 'I'm little but I'm coming for the crown', Lorde sings on highlight 'Still Sane', and it seems, that crown is already on her head to stay. 10.… Expand
  7. Mab_987
    Oct 27, 2013
    9
    I should put a little disclaimer here: this review is gonna be a bit positively biased, because as annoyed as I am by it basically becoming a selling point for her, she's 16. And considering both that I'm her age and that I'm an aspiring musician myself, I can't help but be particularly happy about her sudden success. And aside from that, her mainstream breakthrough single Royals isI should put a little disclaimer here: this review is gonna be a bit positively biased, because as annoyed as I am by it basically becoming a selling point for her, she's 16. And considering both that I'm her age and that I'm an aspiring musician myself, I can't help but be particularly happy about her sudden success. And aside from that, her mainstream breakthrough single Royals is easily one of my favorite pop hits of 2013. It basically talks about being sick of the annoyingly recurring themes of excess & wealth that have plagued a lot of pop & hip hop music on the radio over the last decade or so. But one other thing I appreciate about it is how this sentiment is handled. This song could've easily been nothing but preachy & obnoxious pseudo-hipster drivel. But weaved within this bashing of music lacking substance & relatability is an admission that she'd love to be able to live that kind of lifestyle, but is just annoyed by these people feeling the need to brag about their possessions in the music they're selling to the masses. And now we have her debut album Pure Heroine, which could be one of my top albums of 2013 by year's end.

    Royals combines a lot of Pure Heroine's best traits. One interesting thing going on consistently musically is how sparse the production is. On a good majority of the album there's nothing in the instrumental mix but an electronic beat, an atmospheric synth & occasionally some self-backing vocals with great harmonies. I get how on paper for some people this might result in an album that's boring, monotonous & void of variety. Fortunately though, things are kept interesting by incredibly catchy melodies & various tempo changes from song to song. If anything this kind of minimalist approach helps to emphasize the album's main appeal, the vocals & lyrics. But again that's not to say there's nothing interesting in what's surrounding it. Ribs has a very creative structure, starting with an ambient minute-long intro before going into a back-and-forth switching between speeds Lorde sings some of the verses in, which helps bring out a mix of emotions in the lyrics being repeated. The thing to pull it all together is Lorde's great voice, which manages to gets the ideas being expressed across effectively without the need for obnoxious belting or showing off, which are common crimes in a lot of music where the voice is the main attraction. Not only that, but nothing here is forgettable, and there's never a filler moment in this concise, 10-track, 37-minute listen.

    Lyrically the main 2 themes being portrayed are biting social commentary & vivid thought processes in dealing with newfound fame. With the former, it's tackled from a few different angles. Aside from Royals & the similarly themed Team, there's tracks like Buzzcut Season and Glory And Gore, which talk about the mainstream news media's 2 opposite problems: covering pop culture & celebrity gossip instead of the real problems in the world, and exaggerating & exploiting these problems to the point where people watching either become paranoid pessimists or don't take these issues as seriously as they should. They're messages that contradict each other on the surface but make sense when you really think about it. On the more personal side of things you have tracks like Tennis Court, Still Sane & A World Alone, which detail Lorde coming to terms with her seemingly out-of-nowhere popularity. Now in most cases for me this would be questionable, since how can you talk about your big-time success on your debut album? But you have to think about the context; in New Zealand Royals was already #1 back in March, making her a very big deal in her home country by the time this album was being written. There's talk of getting on planes to tour, dealing with the pressures of scrutiny & criticism, and fearing that she'll end up just another trashy egotistical pop star. One other track worth specifically mentioning is White Teeth Teens, which details O'Connor's disinterest with being one of the perfect popular kids. Fortunately though, like “Royals”, it avoids the typical pitfalls of that kind of message. It doesn't portray these people as one-dimensional villains, but as just a different class she tried to & later gave up being a part of. And all of these themes get the messages across clear while never resorting to illiterate spoon-feeding.

    I can really say nothing negative about this album. It keeps a consistent & distinct sound while never letting tracks bleed together, the lyrics are sincere, on-point & relatable, and the best part is that her song is #1, which is just another sign, if not the defining one, of balance finally being restored on the pop charts in terms of quality. If you're into these traits & have an appreciation for great pop music with some electronic influences, listen to this ASAP.

    Top 5 tracks: Royals, Tennis Court, Still Sane, A World Alone, Ribs
    Score: 94/100    … Expand
  8. FruitJuice
    Jul 18, 2017
    8
    great album........................................................................................................................................................................
  9. jotaeseche
    Nov 18, 2013
    10
    I seriously cannot believe that a teenage girl has such a mature and strong personality and attitude in front of the world. In a stream full of "performers", nonsense songs and viral videos that reach thousands of millions of views in few days, Lorde is not afraid to say that she doesn't want to belong to that world. And she really do mean it, that's the best part. Her songs contain suchI seriously cannot believe that a teenage girl has such a mature and strong personality and attitude in front of the world. In a stream full of "performers", nonsense songs and viral videos that reach thousands of millions of views in few days, Lorde is not afraid to say that she doesn't want to belong to that world. And she really do mean it, that's the best part. Her songs contain such incredibly rough and realistic meanings, combined with minimal and precise music that makes everything smoothier and calmer. Her voice is so out of this world, as well as her variations. This is talent. This is an artist. This is Lorde: (hope to be) the next new true legend of music!… Expand
  10. Dsros96
    Oct 29, 2018
    10
    The fact that this album was written with a few songwriters and being so young only makes it better. An impressive debut.
  11. asjklasjklas
    Oct 17, 2013
    7
    Lorde has seemingly became an overnight success (at least in her home country, Australia, and North America) and that's neither deniable or shocking. Lorde attains the gift of being merely short of seventeen and being more mature than many musicians in the industry decades older than her. The New Zealander's calm vocals and beyond her years songwriting skills as well as Joel Little's chillLorde has seemingly became an overnight success (at least in her home country, Australia, and North America) and that's neither deniable or shocking. Lorde attains the gift of being merely short of seventeen and being more mature than many musicians in the industry decades older than her. The New Zealander's calm vocals and beyond her years songwriting skills as well as Joel Little's chill production help solidify Pure Heroine as an anthem for the youth that's neither tamed nor rebellious. The lead single, "Royals", calmly defeats that idea that not all teenagers are 'trippin' in the bathroom' or 'trashing the hotel room' and has since made Lorde the first solo New Zealander to reach the number-one spot on the Billboard charts. Although Pure Heroine primarily treads on new wave, "Ribs" reassures that Lorde can step into more mainstream synthpop territory without contradicting her completely natural vibe whilst "Team" channels a more vintage Motown sounds. Pure Heroine's only weakness is that it's too short and sweet. But that taste we get in our headphones only teases and anticipates us even more for whatever this upcoming unintentional A-list songstress has to offer. Make no mistake: Lorde is NO one-hit wonder and we'll hear more from her very, very soon.… Expand
  12. andyn823
    Jun 5, 2020
    9
    Pure Heroine is beautiful and honest. This album represents Lorde's teenage life and teenage love. I love this album. The lyrics, the sound, the production... all are amazing.
  13. AnalyDewa
    Nov 26, 2013
    10
    At just 16 years old, Lorde has all the credibility Lana Del Rey wished one day or spend. No need to dress with vintage image and scream desperate for his men in their tracks. Lorde slaps in the face of the music industry in ''Royals'' and sports in rhyming ''Tennis Court''. Definitely, Lorde is the future of music.
  14. LilScience
    Sep 4, 2020
    10
    Lorde chega como um novo estilo 'dark' e assim movimenta a indústria ganhando seu primeiro grammy, Pure Heroine é pura cultura, ela nos leva ao novo mundo da música sem ligar pra luxos e dinheiro pois como a própria diz 'isso não é pra sempre', faixas favoritas: Royals, Tennis Court, Team, White Teeth Teens e The Love Club.
  15. hornysoul
    Sep 24, 2018
    9
    "Pure Heroine" é um trabalho muito bom feito por Lorde e pelo seu produtor e uma "pequena" prova do talento de Ella Marija Lani Yelich-O'Connor. As letras de Lorde são pensativas, maduras, agradáveis e inteligentes. Sem dúvida, um dos melhores álbuns de 2013.
  16. ManuelContreras
    Apr 8, 2018
    8
    un album increible, realmente es muy bueno. ninguna cancion sobra en este album
  17. WXYZ
    Aug 25, 2015
    10
    If you like Lana Del Rey, Sky Ferreira, Kate Bush or Grimes, you will instantly love this album. This is a mature piece of work that will stand until the test of time. This album was written back in 2013, when Lorde was only 16. Sixteen! Rarely anybody can write such smart lyrics at a young age like that. Lorde is an artist who has managed to create and raise the bar for a new sound of artIf you like Lana Del Rey, Sky Ferreira, Kate Bush or Grimes, you will instantly love this album. This is a mature piece of work that will stand until the test of time. This album was written back in 2013, when Lorde was only 16. Sixteen! Rarely anybody can write such smart lyrics at a young age like that. Lorde is an artist who has managed to create and raise the bar for a new sound of art pop. Every single track tells a different story and stands out on its own. Her alto (though mezzo-soprano on Royals) voice is really rare, and she can easily calm and amaze the listener.

    One thing that greatly annoys me are a few critics giving this album a 6/10 (or 3/5) because I would think they are jealous of a talented 16 year old. I am however not. It's too bad this album didn't receive an 81 or higher, because if it were up to me, I would surely give it a very high rating.

    It could also be the best album of New Zealand by far.    … Expand
  18. NathanCabello
    Dec 16, 2014
    10
    Best indie album for me, Lord is a great artist and still has much to show us, and this debut album was a great start, is not a tedious album and all the songs have quality.
    Highlights: Tennis Court and Bravado
    Lows: Bitind Down and Swigin Party
  19. Clubsocial
    May 4, 2015
    10
    ocalists in popular music, but Lorde is easily the most vocally striking and lyrically thought-provoking. Pure Heroine is honest and addictive. amoooooo
  20. potasioxd
    Sep 2, 2020
    9
    un álbum perfecto, y adelantado a sus años. lorde es realmente una muy buena cantautora, sabe escribir y componer. las canciones tiene un tono oscuro y es lo que hace al álbum bueno. nunca había escuchado un álbum igual a ese y eso lo hace realmente destacable. mis canciones favoritas son 400 lux, tennis court y buzzcut season
  21. CharlieBetterIs
    Jan 2, 2016
    9
    Pure Heroine é um dos melhores álbuns de 2013. Ele é espetacular. Quase todas as músicas desse álbum são perfeitas, só tendo algumas bem "mais ou menos".

    Pontos altos: A World Alone, Glory And Glore, Tennis Court
    Pontos baixos: Biting Down, Swingin Party, White Teeth Teens
  22. MyleeneFRW
    Aug 23, 2019
    9
    Дебютный альбом, Грэмми, первые строчки в чартах, качество - это все про этот релиз. Кто в таком раннем возрасте написал бы такую качественную работу? Конечно же Лорд.
  23. SumitSumbria
    May 4, 2016
    9
    Lorde states "We live in cities you'll never see on screen / not vert pretty but we sure know how to run things" in the song "Team" With a profusion of wonderful tracks "Royals" and "Team" in particular, this is one of the most essential albums of the 2010s decade. She creates "a different kind of buzz."
  24. JhosepKingsley
    Jul 21, 2018
    8
    Each of the songs on this album are pleasant to the ear. Lorde makes an iconic debut and screams that it is a legend of alternative music and not just for placing the single lead of this work in # 1 of multiple charts.
  25. Jamison12
    Apr 6, 2014
    8
    It might be considered cool to not like Lorde and be a "non-conformist' but in reality, Pure Heroine is a very well made album and proves Lorde's un-denying talent as a young artist. It's a nice stray from the generic pop music we all hate.
  26. mike4444
    Dec 30, 2013
    7
    This album is very good but the music is sometimes weird. Weird is not always a good thing. However, it is nice that someone is trying something original and is actually decent, (However, I don't like how this girl is mouthing off to other artists)
  27. leogarcia132002
    Mar 15, 2023
    7
    For many the beginning of the alternative, for me the end of adolescence and the entrance to maturity.
  28. joaofelin
    Jul 16, 2017
    10
    Tennis Court - 10
    400 Lux - 10
    Royals - 10
    Ribs - 9
    Buzzcut Season - 10
    Team - 10
    Glory and Gore - 10
    Still Sane - 10
    White Teeth Teens - 10
    A World Alone - 10

    score: 9,9
  29. samwich21
    Jun 10, 2017
    10
    Lorde is worthy of her two Grammy wins. Tracks like "Royals", "Team", "Buzzcut Season" and "Tennis Court" capture Ella Yelich-O'Connor's maturely child-like persona.
  30. godwinkent888
    Feb 28, 2014
    9
    I love this album. Lorde is definitely one of my favorite musicians. Her voice is very relaxing and distinct and her songwriting is very expressive, although it may take some time to realize what she is talking about in her songs.
  31. joethealien
    Oct 8, 2017
    9
    Lorde shook the entire pop industry with her earth-shattering debut single Royals. consisting of a minimalistic beat, a catchy chorus, haunting harmonies and profound lyrics, Royals was the ultimate "step it up y'all" to fellow pop musicians.

    it could very well be argued that no other mainstream musician on today's charts possesses the brilliant poetic/lyrical consistency of Lorde. at    Lorde shook the entire pop industry with her earth-shattering debut single Royals. consisting of a minimalistic beat, a catchy chorus, haunting harmonies and profound lyrics, Royals was the ultimate "step it up y'all" to fellow pop musicians.

    it could very well be argued that no other mainstream musician on today's charts possesses the brilliant poetic/lyrical consistency of Lorde. at 16, she released both The Love Club EP (which includes Bravado, which I like to think convinced Bowie to call her "the future of music") and this stunning debut.
    the album starts with another delicious slice of humid, minimalist art pop, entitled Tennis Court. the album only gets better and better, with each new song feeling like a rush of cool air permeating many a teenager's hoodies as they leave their favorite smoke spot. 400 Lux and Buzzcut Season are immediate highlights, showcasing Lorde's talent for translating youth, angst and the zeitgeist into glittering, timeless bangers. one of the most refreshing details about this record is that every single song is as good if not better than the first single. there is so much to love about Lorde, and from here on out, her sharp lyricism and knack for creative melodic direction only gets better. a true pop icon in the making.    … Expand
  32. j444cks
    Mar 2, 2023
    9
    An album that grows in stature with every listen. Teen angst told so maturely.
  33. DrewBrauer
    Nov 18, 2013
    8
    Every year a new upcoming artist hits the scene and hopes to make it big in the music industry. This year's big surprise is a sixteen year old from New Zealand named Lorde. After her smash hit "Royals" which was a surprising real take on how not everyone wants the Riches of celebrities, she releases a now hit album titled "Pure Heroine". Lorde's debut is a very promising one withEvery year a new upcoming artist hits the scene and hopes to make it big in the music industry. This year's big surprise is a sixteen year old from New Zealand named Lorde. After her smash hit "Royals" which was a surprising real take on how not everyone wants the Riches of celebrities, she releases a now hit album titled "Pure Heroine". Lorde's debut is a very promising one with refreshing Pop songs about the youth and other issues for people my age, which helps Lorde stand out among the huge crowd of Auto-Tuned Pop Starlets. The album is about Ten Songs long which is a problem, I wished there was more, because the songs just felt so refreshing and I wished the story could continue on, also since this is very different from the usual Synth Beat heavy Pop music, it won't peek everyone's interest, at first listen I felt a little off put with what was going on. Still there's plenty to appreciate, the songwriting is excellent with themes about what we want in life and how it's not always about having the best, most expensive, items in the world. The Sound in particular is also refreshing with simple beats and sounds, and it all sounds great. Lorde also packs a punch with the singing, flowing along perfectly with each song, though around the end she goes a little too far. Pure Heroine could've been longer, but for right now it's a great start for Lorde, and I hope to see more music from her in the future.… Expand
  34. Teodoro
    Jun 20, 2014
    10
    Esse album é maravilhoso,o segundo melhor de 2013(só perde pra ARTPOP) que o sucessor de Pure Heroine seja igualmente maravilhoso e Lorde/Ella não me descepcione.
  35. camilosanchez16
    Dec 15, 2014
    8
    Lorde, Lorde, Lorde... Hay Lorde... eres sorprendente, sacas tu primer album y ¡WOW! nos demuestras lo madura y profesional que puede ser una chica de 18 años como cantante... Letras profundas y un pegadizo ritmo pop minimalistico, excelente trabajo!
  36. Fakebytswift
    Jun 13, 2016
    10
    Pure Heroine is one of the best albums of the decade. I don't see a lot of popstars doing what Lorde does: innovation, revolution and social issues discussed. This album has a lot of different sounds, the lyrics are uncommon and I see this as a big step on the music pop industry. Lorde talks about anti-materialism issues on Royals, the new-found fame on Still Sane... and this is definetlyPure Heroine is one of the best albums of the decade. I don't see a lot of popstars doing what Lorde does: innovation, revolution and social issues discussed. This album has a lot of different sounds, the lyrics are uncommon and I see this as a big step on the music pop industry. Lorde talks about anti-materialism issues on Royals, the new-found fame on Still Sane... and this is definetly a good thing to young people out there.… Expand
  37. SmellyJelly
    Sep 9, 2022
    10
    For a new artist, it is very talented to make such an album. Obviously, critics underestimated the album, and even the picky David Bowie said that she was "the future of music".
  38. CamdenRendell
    Jan 29, 2018
    8
    It is crazy to think just how young Lorde was when she made this album. Great career ahead of her!
  39. Maurus
    Jun 23, 2015
    10
    Best album of 2013. So young, but so smart! Lorde explores things that most part of the actual teenage-singers don't care, and things that some "super artists" (by fans) seems to can't talk about, because they're too busy with their own selfishness. Lorde is mature, with beautiful and intelligent songs. The future of music is here, it's name is Lorde.
  40. PsychoLevi
    Aug 31, 2019
    8
    This girl never produced bad and meaningless songs. She was just 17 and brought the storm from New Zealand.
  41. josrob
    Jun 26, 2017
    10
    Simplemente perfecto. Adoro el estilo de Lorde, sus letras, sus sonidos, todo en este álbum es genial cuando lo escuché por primera vez fue una total revelación. Gracias a Ella por darnos tanto arte condensado en un solo álbum.
  42. orengue
    Sep 1, 2017
    9
    Very good start for a debut album, back in 2013 i remember hearing Royals in the radio, it was my jam, but then Team and Tennis Court got a place in my heart. It is very catchy and honest, really good
  43. BladeLover2049
    Aug 17, 2018
    10
    In a long time there had not appeared an album that will present concepts as interesting and never covered. And with a lyric that becomes too profound and poetic prose, comparable with what "Madame Bovary" did more than a century ago. A vital album in these times.
  44. mctthewgroom
    Aug 26, 2021
    9
    Amazing album. Highlights for me are team, 400 lux, bravado and glory and gore.
  45. SimpleMethod
    Oct 2, 2013
    7
    Pure Heroine is good, but I don't like every song. Team is notably the best. I give Lorde credit for bringing out such a unique sound, even if to somewhat mixed results. Look forward to new stuff.
  46. truerowance
    Jun 10, 2015
    10
    amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing
  47. georgetheod73
    Aug 21, 2022
    10
    She was 15 when she started crafting this and the fact that it changed music forever has a lot to say about Ella's talent. 10/10 album
  48. paulwilsonlogic
    Jan 1, 2014
    8
    Despite her only 16 or 17 years old, Lorde has shown a piece of brilliant creativity. She could easily be the beginning of a new generation of adolescents that go directly to the core of the real music. The New Zeland girl doesn't hide her real desires about a change of a world full of "crystal, maybach, jet planes, islands or tigers on a gold leash". Sincere and genuine, there's no doubtDespite her only 16 or 17 years old, Lorde has shown a piece of brilliant creativity. She could easily be the beginning of a new generation of adolescents that go directly to the core of the real music. The New Zeland girl doesn't hide her real desires about a change of a world full of "crystal, maybach, jet planes, islands or tigers on a gold leash". Sincere and genuine, there's no doubt that Lorde won't give her arm to sprain. Although she's just starting and there's a lot of way to go, "Pure Heroine" will always be a peculiar piece of pop that our eardrums will always be disposed to listen to.… Expand
  49. Markosvini
    May 4, 2014
    10
    ELA ESCREVE MUITO BEM, ELA E UM GÊNIO... CONSEGUI SE EXPRESSAR EM ÁLBUM COMPLETO E CHEIO DE HITS, NÃO QUE EU GOSTE DA SUA PERSONALIDADE... MAS ELA É UMA ÓTIMA ESCRITORA.
  50. miguelsanhueza
    Nov 9, 2013
    10
    Uno de los mejores albums que he escuchado este año, sin duda Lorde se lució, es un disco con 10 canciones que no aburren, lleno de magia pura que soprende con sus sonidos que cautivan y a la vez llenan.
  51. HPFANBOY1237
    Jul 7, 2017
    10
    Fantastic debut for Lorde, I love every song on this album. For someone so young (which is strange for me to say because I'm younger) she has more talent than most other people out there. Her lyrics has deeper subtext, than most other songs and I just can't get it enough of it. A+
  52. venusprincess
    Sep 7, 2020
    9
    te amo lorde esse álbum é surrealmente bem escrito e bem produzido,nem acredito que ela tinha 16/17 anos na época
  53. Deseorun
    May 7, 2021
    9
    Lorde's debut album is a beautiful work. It shows the simplicity and grandeur of the performer, even though she is from a God-forsaken New Zealand town. Lorde demonstrates the power of his thinking, reasoning about all sorts of topics at such a young age. The sound of some tracks has failed, while the text component is made at the highest level.
  54. MusicalButter
    Nov 3, 2017
    8
    Despite feeling rushed/skeletal due to high musical demand. Lorde's debut album is an astonishingly grand spark of potential for her future career. The lyrics possess song writing ability far beyond her age and the minimalist approach she has taken is very interesting mixed with the dark lyrical personality.

    Favourites: 400 Lux, Glory and Gore, Tennis Court, A World Alone, Ribs, White    Despite feeling rushed/skeletal due to high musical demand. Lorde's debut album is an astonishingly grand spark of potential for her future career. The lyrics possess song writing ability far beyond her age and the minimalist approach she has taken is very interesting mixed with the dark lyrical personality.

    Favourites: 400 Lux, Glory and Gore, Tennis Court, A World Alone, Ribs, White Teeth Teens, Team.

    Eh: Still Sane

    These aren't that good...: N/A    … Expand
  55. ea_sergio24
    May 28, 2019
    10
    It is a pretty solid debut album, one of the best albums by a debut artist.
  56. emilyc
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    amazing debut songs like ribs show her amazing talent and lyrics are unmatched love it
  57. benko13
    Nov 3, 2020
    9
    Brilliant break through for an artist, specially because Lorde was just 15 while making it. It's hard to imagine how that young person can write such a serious lyric as one for the 'Buzzcut Season' which might be the best track on the record (with her sister 'Ribs' and the main single 'Royals').
    Lorde shows us how the world looks like from the eye of a teenager on this record, and Pure    Brilliant break through for an artist, specially because Lorde was just 15 while making it. It's hard to imagine how that young person can write such a serious lyric as one for the 'Buzzcut Season' which might be the best track on the record (with her sister 'Ribs' and the main single 'Royals').
    Lorde shows us how the world looks like from the eye of a teenager on this record, and Pure Heroine really is a teenage record that EVERY teenager should listen.    … Expand
  58. yulinbarak2001
    Jun 20, 2017
    10
    Esta es la voz adolescente donde da vida a lo que se vive en cada momento de la adolescencia cuando adoleces todo tu entorno y no sientes que encajas y intentas llamar la atención del publico solo para que sepan de de ti. Eso es PURE HEROINE.
  59. igorpedro
    Apr 8, 2021
    10
    um perfeito álbum de estreia! Lorde mesmo com pouca idade mostrou o quão madura é através de suas letras neste disco maravilhoso, envelheceu como um bom vinho, me sinto honrado e MUITO MUITO sortudo em poder ouvir, amo demais. SAUDADES LORDE! WE LOVE YOU !!!!!!
  60. stfuadam
    Feb 21, 2016
    9
    I always liked this album, but I'm only now coming to truly appreciate it. I really can't believe she was only 16 when this came out. A cohesive, engaging album.
  61. kjhkjhk
    Feb 15, 2019
    10
    Stunning. Really different from the typical pop record. The writing is hauntingly great I've never heard a POP record with so much great lyrical content along with being so sonic-ally adventurous. Superb!!!
  62. lucascabbral
    Sep 30, 2015
    10
    simplesmente divino. "Pure Heroine" é um dos melhores albuns que eu já ouvi na minha vida, o album fala sobre problemas sócias. é um cd com composições incríveis, no qual lorde teve envolvimento em todas. um album forte e de personalidade, você consegue sentir sinceridade em cada composição. parabéns Lorde.
  63. utkarshbansal
    Nov 18, 2021
    8
    Can't believe she was 15 when she wrote this, 16 when it came out. 400 Lux has my heart.
  64. megavocalcritic
    Mar 7, 2014
    7
    My favourite songs are 'Royals', 'Team' and 'Tennis Court'. Dark themes. Healthy lows. It has been an amazing year for Lorde, with at least 4 of her songs charting on the Billboard Hot 100, the current new song charting in the Hot 100 being Glory and Gore. However, as much as I loved the three songs listed above, I still have my reservations. I refuse to give her 10/10 because all herMy favourite songs are 'Royals', 'Team' and 'Tennis Court'. Dark themes. Healthy lows. It has been an amazing year for Lorde, with at least 4 of her songs charting on the Billboard Hot 100, the current new song charting in the Hot 100 being Glory and Gore. However, as much as I loved the three songs listed above, I still have my reservations. I refuse to give her 10/10 because all her songs are dark. She needs to make light-hearted songs and not be a Lana Del Ray number 2.… Expand
  65. tevin_pa9551
    Jun 24, 2017
    9
    In early 2014, I thought of Pop music for some reason to check for from 2013. Lorde happened to be one of several artist/bands that had a stellar debut. Her pop music when listening to it doesn't come off a catchy, it seems as if the lyrics drive for people to keep singing a verse or a memorable chorus. A song that made me wanna listen to here was "Glory and Gore" because of the showIn early 2014, I thought of Pop music for some reason to check for from 2013. Lorde happened to be one of several artist/bands that had a stellar debut. Her pop music when listening to it doesn't come off a catchy, it seems as if the lyrics drive for people to keep singing a verse or a memorable chorus. A song that made me wanna listen to here was "Glory and Gore" because of the show Vikings on A&E. This album has a good sense of being different and by her being 15/16 around the time of making the album you would think she would go the bubblegum pop route of the late 90s. This isn't that and she for sure stands out. Her cadence and how she attacks a record is definitely rap influenced but not a stab to discredit that. For her lyrics matter to her, and for me that also makes this album a listen for people outside the Lorde circle.

    Favorites: Tennis Court / 400 Lux / Team & Glory and Gore.    … Expand
  66. Yoshipie
    Dec 21, 2013
    10
    Pure Heroine is a display of 10 beautifully written and performed tracks; it is an artistic showcase of pure talent that you would not expect from a 16 year old. It is almost like as if Lorde invented a new sound, which is a major stand-out from other mainstream artists. Stand-outs are Royals (undoubtedly) and Tennis Court. Massive congratulations to Lorde for her recent success.
  67. Panda_moniums
    May 4, 2014
    7
    I think this album would be even more superb if she let her vocals expand more. It seems like Ella is capable of having a strong voice as she demonstrates in "Royals". Either way, the songs are meaningful, relatable to a teenager like me, and the singer behind it all has an awesome personality. Diamond in the rough for pop music.
  68. beycause
    Feb 6, 2015
    10
    Lorde é um gênio. O fato é que ela escreveu essas músicas com 15/16, e mostrou mais maturidade que muitos compositores 10 ou 15 anos mais velhos que ela. As metáforas, o jeito nada meloso ou clichê de retratar o amor, mostra o quão madura ela é. Tudo isso faz desse disco uma obra prima. Joel Little como produtor se mostrou magnífico e espero que eles continuem trabalhando juntos. E umaLorde é um gênio. O fato é que ela escreveu essas músicas com 15/16, e mostrou mais maturidade que muitos compositores 10 ou 15 anos mais velhos que ela. As metáforas, o jeito nada meloso ou clichê de retratar o amor, mostra o quão madura ela é. Tudo isso faz desse disco uma obra prima. Joel Little como produtor se mostrou magnífico e espero que eles continuem trabalhando juntos. E uma coisa que poucos percebem é que o disco começa com a frase "Você não acha chato o jeito que essas pessoas falam?" e a última frase dita, na última canção, é: "Deixe que falem." É tudo muito inteligente. Um trabalho impecável!… Expand
  69. seanc55
    Aug 19, 2021
    10
    Lorde influenced music so much with this album. Every song is truly amazing.
  70. justachair
    Apr 30, 2014
    8
    Lorde is 16, though she definitely sounds older and more mature that most 30-year-old pop stars out there. Since "Royals" we knew this hipster twist on the rap and pop marriage would deliver an outstanding album, full of equally as catchy songs. Lorde delivered "Pure Heroine", a title that fits perfectly because the album feels like a drug: Eccentrically weird and psychedelic journeyLorde is 16, though she definitely sounds older and more mature that most 30-year-old pop stars out there. Since "Royals" we knew this hipster twist on the rap and pop marriage would deliver an outstanding album, full of equally as catchy songs. Lorde delivered "Pure Heroine", a title that fits perfectly because the album feels like a drug: Eccentrically weird and psychedelic journey through the mind of a real, down-to-earth teenanger. If that is what Heroine tastes like.
    The album opens with the "explicit" (I put it between punctuations for a reason) "Tennis Court", a song that already opens up for the lyrical masterpieces the album, as Pure Heroine is mainly beautifully composed. Sometimes, the marriage between the ironic poetry and the synth beats do not work ("Still Sane" and "400 Lux" are perfect examples. They are not bad, but they feel seriously under-produced in comparison to the other songs).
    Of course the anti-pop queen delivers killing phrases. "I am kind of over being told to throw my hands up in the air" she shouts at the ultra-catchy "Team", and guess what, I'm kind of over too! In "Glory and Gore" maybe, the album slips from the catchy into a more metal hip hop fusion of savvy "Ohhs" and filters.
    "Pure Heroine" is a unique debut album that doesn't play safe but doesn't excel in quality. Lorde, with her ominous vocals, delivered an album full of hipster propaganda, heavenly choirs and dark, gothic rythms ready to swallow like a pill. It is real suburban teenagehood, and it is as good as as it gets.    … Expand
  71. DennisR
    Nov 16, 2013
    9
    I love her so much and this is a fantastic album!! Some songs sound the same but it's ok!! I love the raspiness that she brings out in her voice. She has a bright future ahead of her
  72. sasscardigan
    Jul 25, 2017
    9
    La clásica vieja Lorde se refugia en este álbum. Con algunas canciones, el gusto fue espontáneo, con otras no tanto, pero la estética y lírica de Lorde es algo que se destaca mucho en este álbum. Las letras de Pure Heroine son mucho más profundas y poéticas que las repetitivas en Melodrama, por ello creo que este álbum guarda un sentimiento muy especial. Para cualquier persona que pasó laLa clásica vieja Lorde se refugia en este álbum. Con algunas canciones, el gusto fue espontáneo, con otras no tanto, pero la estética y lírica de Lorde es algo que se destaca mucho en este álbum. Las letras de Pure Heroine son mucho más profundas y poéticas que las repetitivas en Melodrama, por ello creo que este álbum guarda un sentimiento muy especial. Para cualquier persona que pasó la adolescencia y no se sintió identificado con las letras de Lorde (Escuché Ribs en mi peor momento y me ayudo muchísimo) creo que simplemente no entendió de todo de qué trataba.… Expand
  73. sulli
    May 27, 2019
    9
    pure heroine its such a paradise for musical production, all the musics complete themselves, Lorde did an amazing work selecting them in the middle of you highest pitch of fame with “Royals”.
  74. supercutx
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    THE BEST DARK ALTERNATIVE ALBUM OF ALL TIME. SHE DID WHAT LANA MELANIE OR BILLIE CANT. period
  75. Yisusalv
    May 20, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Iconica Lordiosa, amamos a la patrona de cagaloma, lana del desagüe y basurrillie… Expand
  76. unknown
    Oct 1, 2013
    10
    This album is probably the best of the year. Lorde is in a genre of her own and I don't think that she can be compared to any other artist out there today.
  77. alexanderab
    Oct 11, 2013
    10
    There shouldn't have to be reviews written for this album. Ella Yelich O'Connor, better known as Lorde, cranks out 10 masterpieces that show no weakness and will please the ears of pop music listeners. Her appeal is wide-ranging and intriguing.

    The overall theme of the album is minimalist, and the catchy alt-pop and tremendous songwriting displayed on the record is indicative of the    There shouldn't have to be reviews written for this album. Ella Yelich O'Connor, better known as Lorde, cranks out 10 masterpieces that show no weakness and will please the ears of pop music listeners. Her appeal is wide-ranging and intriguing.

    The overall theme of the album is minimalist, and the catchy alt-pop and tremendous songwriting displayed on the record is indicative of the potential Joel Little and Lorde have working together. Lorde's lyrics are thoughtful, mature, pleasing, and clever. Little's production fits the themes of the songs very well, and though he isn't Stargate when it comes to the beats department, he isn't DJ Mustard either. His production is good across the board.

    Every track stands out in its own way, but if I had to pick a few to listen to:

    Royals
    Team
    Tennis Court
    Bravado
    Ribs

    Yeah, I would have to pick half the album.

    I've already talked about the songwriting, but Lorde's voice is gold. She cruises through songs smoothly while displaying an impressive lower range that's both comforting and haunting at the same time.

    100% a must buy. The fact that she's 16 is just the icing on one of the sweetest cakes of 2013.    … Expand
  78. lkaliba
    May 31, 2014
    10
    "Pure Heroine" by Lorde is just a fantastic album. Every song on this album is very relatable and songs that you can sing-along to, and Lorde's voice is just captivating.
  79. juniorey
    Nov 15, 2017
    10
    muito bom esse album, as letras são profundas e muito maduras, mesmo a lorde sendo uma adolescente quando escreveu, rainha prodígio da música e cristal lapidado do alternativo
  80. 2002oliver
    Aug 28, 2020
    10
    Lorde siempre dándonos arte, todo lo que ella toca se vuelve una obra maestra, sin duda la Diosa del Alternativo
  81. Brosman
    Oct 10, 2013
    9
    The very simple and minimalistic beats mix extremely well with her voice. Its good to see someone singing from the heart and not conforming to the mainstream. Good to see pop is headed in a good direction.
  82. matthewdeane12
    Mar 20, 2014
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. After hearing Royals, and with all the hype surrounding this release, I had to give it a listen. And I can proudly say it is now one of my favourite albums of all time. From the awe-inducing minimalist hip-hop production and her bold vocals to the catchy and captivating lyrics this album is full off and the fact that Lorde is still only a teenager really left me completely dumbstruck. The only thing I can say about this album is LISTEN TO IT!… Expand
  83. Rafaeeel
    Jun 10, 2017
    10
    Não pulo nenhuma faixa desse álbum, eu amo muito os instrumentais dele, e eu amo a voz robótica de Tennis Court, que inclusive é uma das minhas favoritas. A Lorde é maravilhosa.
  84. usukhu
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    Just WOW. She's so ahead of her time and WOW. She's the best artist of our generation. Joel Little's productions were great, the lyrics were great. Deserved a Grammy Award and deserved to be nominated for Album of the Year.
  85. pureoine
    Jul 24, 2020
    10
    i swear for god i can feel every single lyric from this album so deeply in my heart. lorde wrote these songs thinking about me.
  86. Carlsdil000
    Oct 25, 2013
    9
    Very interesting, very likable, Lorde makes her mark with this album. Very mature and serious, these songs are nice to listen to if you want a relaxing time. These songs have a deeper meaning to them than most of what is released these days. In a world full of hits and misses, this album is definitely a hit.
  87. KinkyKid
    Jun 8, 2017
    7
    Sonido fresco con letras interesantes y una voz muy pero el álbum suena repetitivo y al final ya llegas cansado de la monotonía del sonido del material.
  88. pedrccc
    Aug 31, 2019
    10
    Album incrivel, coeso e que retrata bem musicalmente as falhas e inseguranças de um adolescente.
  89. xuli
    Dec 24, 2019
    10
    It's so powerful to hear this for the first time, the way she composes and relates with her music is definitely something else. It's ravishing and healing, never boring even when you feel comfortable. I admire Lorde with all my heart and this album just never gets old.
  90. keroxsan
    Jul 3, 2021
    10
    I love love love this album. I actually like it more than Melodrama tbh. I mean don't get me wrong Melodrama is AMAZING. But I just prefer this album over it. I love the sound of this album. It has such a dark and atmospheric feeling to it. My absolute favs are ribs, buzzcut season, team, tennis court, no better and glory and gore. But I love every single track on this album. I don't skipI love love love this album. I actually like it more than Melodrama tbh. I mean don't get me wrong Melodrama is AMAZING. But I just prefer this album over it. I love the sound of this album. It has such a dark and atmospheric feeling to it. My absolute favs are ribs, buzzcut season, team, tennis court, no better and glory and gore. But I love every single track on this album. I don't skip a single song when I listen to the album in full.… Expand
  91. Looool172
    Apr 11, 2022
    8
    Este es uno de los mejores debut albums en toda la industria, la gente dice que el album es básico y aburrido pero si se dan cuenta ella tenia 12 años cuando empezó en esto y como una niña de abajo de 15 años podría crear tan buen album?? Lorde es increíble
  92. AngelJCervantes
    May 27, 2016
    9
    Songs like "Tennis Curt", "Royals", "400 Lux", "Glory and Gore", "The Love Club" and more, are really hard to get them out of the head. I hope something much better in her next work.
  93. WeAreOnEXO
    Jan 11, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. LORDE LENDA LORDE LENDA LORDE LENDA LORDE LENDA LORDE LENDA LORDE LENDA LORDE LENDA LORDE LENDa… Expand
  94. melodramatica
    Aug 26, 2019
    10
    A breakthrough classic. The minimalism in the production, the catchiness and wit in the lyrics mixed with a persona that feels genuinely appealing perfectly captures what being a teen is all about. Adolescence has been the toughest for me but Pure Heroine softened the blow. It deserves a higher score by critics and it has stood the test of time considering the impact it had on the wave ofA breakthrough classic. The minimalism in the production, the catchiness and wit in the lyrics mixed with a persona that feels genuinely appealing perfectly captures what being a teen is all about. Adolescence has been the toughest for me but Pure Heroine softened the blow. It deserves a higher score by critics and it has stood the test of time considering the impact it had on the wave of music after its release. Artists like Billie Eilish should thank Ella for paving the way. She truly is the future of music.… Expand
  95. MaxOakland
    Oct 23, 2021
    10
    A beautiful and unique album that talks about topics that deserve more attention, like growing up and growing old. The hit "Royals" is one of my least favorite songs on the album so if you like that one it's only up from there
  96. erikadizon
    Aug 1, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Excellent. Excellent. Excellent Excellent. Excellent. Excellent. Excellent Excellent.… Expand
  97. Pinglu50
    Mar 19, 2015
    10
    Pure Heroine is by far a perfect mix of sounds, not only for Royals, which is just a demonstration of what she could do. It's incredible how a 16 year-old girl could have such a vision about things and life. Masterpiece.
  98. victcxx
    Aug 29, 2020
    10
    Esse album marcou minha adolescência, composições perfeitas e reflexivas com uma produção impecável, Lorde é Lorde.
  99. rodrigoeec
    Oct 26, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Simply the best debut album of all time! All tracks are amazing, the sounds and the lyrics fir extremely well together. How the album starts by saying "Don't you think that it's boring how people talk?" and ends with "Let em' talk" is grammy-worthy itself. And the fact that Lorde was 16 when she made this is simply extraordinary.… Expand
  100. puremelopower
    Jun 4, 2022
    9
    gets better with every listen. this album got me through middle school. still confused as to why it was split up between pure heroine and love club ep though.
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Awards & Rankings

11
#11 Most Discussed Album of 2013
12
#12 Most Shared Album of 2013

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 28 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 28
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 28
  3. Negative: 0 out of 28
  1. cokemachineglow
    Feb 4, 2014
    90
    It’s the music here, not the sharp-toothed lyricism, which sets the record so far apart from the rest of the field.
    Read full review
  2. Q Magazine
    Nov 22, 2013
    80
    It isn't perfect but it adds up to an intimidatingly assured opening shot from a major new talent. [Dec 2013, p.108]
  3. The Fly (UK)
    Nov 1, 2013
    70
    Whilst Lorde’s world creates its own incredibly distinctive atmosphere, it feels accessible and open to maturing.
    Read full review
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