In the vibrant atmosphere of New York City, Lorde has officially ushered in a new chapter of her musical journey, launching her latest single, "What Was That?" on Thursday. This exciting release follows an unannounced performance in Washington Square Park just two days earlier, which attracted such a large audience that it ultimately had to be shut down by the NYPD.

Nearly four years have passed since the New Zealand singer-songwriter's last album, "Solar Power," which polarized listeners and reviewers alike with its bright acoustics and tranquil lyrical themes. In stark contrast, "What Was That?" is characterized by its raw, jangly energy, evoking the sensation of suddenly waking from a vivid dream. The track was co-written by Lorde and Jim-E Stack and co-produced by the duo alongside Daniel Nigro, a notable figure in contemporary pop known for his collaborations with rising stars like Olivia Rodrigo and Chappell Roan. The emotional undercurrents of the song seem to stem from a recent heartbreak, offering listeners an intimate glimpse into Lorde's personal life.

In a heartfelt note published alongside the single's release, Lorde wrote, "Late 2023. Back in New York. Deep breakup. Stopping birth control. Every meal a battle. Flashbacks and waves. Feeling grief's vortex and letting it take me. Opening my mouth and recording what fell out The sound of my rebirth." These words poignantly encapsulate the turmoil of her recent experiences and set the tone for the single.

Since her meteoric rise to fame with the 2013 hit "Royals," Lorde, now 28, has remained largely private about her personal life, often drawing the curiosity of fans regarding her relationships. Her candor about recent events offers a rare opportunity for fans to connect with her on a deeper emotional level.

The lyrics of "What Was That?" are rich with references to Lorde's past work, real-life locations, and memories that paint a vivid picture of her emotional landscape. Interestingly, the song appears to draw inspiration from her rumored relationship with Justin Warren, a music executive who has been associated with Lorde since 2016. Although neither has openly confirmed their romantic involvement, their connection has attracted considerable media attention.

Warren, who is significantly older than Lorde, was spotted with her in various public settings, including affectionate displays in Auckland. In 2021, she released "The Man With the Axe," which many interpreted as an homage to Warren, describing it as a "fragile, vulnerable" piece meant to express deep love and affection. In a newsletter sent to fans in September 2023, Lorde seemed to confirm her breakup with Warren, revealing, "I'm living with heartbreak again. It's different but the same. I ache all the time, I forget why and then remember. I understand now that pain isn't something to hide from; there's actually great beauty in moving with it. But sometimes I'm sick of being with myself." This timeline strongly suggests that "What Was That?" channels the emotions stemming from this breakup.

The chorus of the new single features a striking reference to MDMA, which connects back to the themes explored in her earlier album, "Melodrama." Lorde sings, "MDMA in the back garden, blow our pupils up. We kissed for hours straight, well, baby, what was that?" This mention of ecstasy highlights the party culture she previously explored in her music. In her discussions about her creative process, Lorde has acknowledged that she used MDMA while crafting "Melodrama," which is deeply entwined with the theme of ecstasy. In comparison, her debut album, "Pure Heroine," is linked to alcohol, while "Solar Power" evokes the essence of cannabis.

Lorde's lyrical craft also draws on earlier motifs, with references to songs like "Girl, So Confusing" and "Perfect Places." For instance, she sings, "I wear smoke like a wedding veil / Make a meal I won't eat," which may allude to her struggles with body image and disordered eating that she has openly discussed in previous works. In her 2023 newsletter, she reflects on her health, revealing, "I've been at war with my body...Just thinking that makes me feel tired and far away." This expression of vulnerability resonates deeply with listeners who have faced similar struggles.

In addition to its personal themes, "What Was That?" echoes the hedonistic vibe of "Melodrama," an album Lorde has described as exploring the dualities of solitude. The new song captures her internal chaos even amidst a glamorous environment, as depicted in lines like, "Do you know you're still with me / When I'm out with my friends?" Furthermore, she references the iconic music venue Baby's All Right in Brooklyn, reminding listeners of her roots.

Throughout her discography, Lorde has consistently used the motif of dreams to express experiences that feel surreal or unattainable. From references in "Royals" to her more recent work, she has constructed a lyrical landscape that speaks to the complexities of youth and longing. In "What Was That?", she reflects on the consequences of living in a fantasy, illustrating a poignant evolution in her artistry.