I've listened to new music a lot more in the past few years. By new music I mean anything that doesn't appear on the front cover of Mojo magazine. But Melodrama reminds me why I hate the formulaic approach to much modern music making. It's almost as if it's been written by an algorithm to hit all the right mass market consumer hot spots. A familiar theme for me in these reviews: no soul. Sorry.
I have enjoyed Lorde songs in the past (Royals) so was expecting more from this. It sounds like generic modern electronic pop with a slightly quirky voice. Bland, shiny production and lyrics that really don't speak to me. The sound is monotonous in both the backing and Lorde's voice - there's some variation in mood and tone in Hard Feelings, but the voice doesn't really change. Not sure I am the target audience for this album, to be fair.