14. Lorde – Pure Heroine: “Lingers and Demands Contemplation” #CaPC25

All this week, the writers of Christ and Pop Culture unveil their 25 most loved things of  2013. 

Previous #15: The Great Gatsby

#14. Lorde – Pure Heroine

Lorde’s Pure Heroine debuted to much critical acclaim earlier this year, and it warrants every drop of praise it receives. While only 16 years of age at the album’s release, Lorde, New Zealand-born Ella Yelich-O’Connor, writes about youth with the authenticity of actually being youthful, yet she pulls it off with a rare lyrical maturity that is striking and disarming at the same time.

For example, while being driven home after a late and tiring party on the track “400 Lux,” Lorde sings, “We’re hollow like the bottles that we drink.” It’s an honest commentary on the invisible void often accompanied by youthful dreaming and indulgence. It’s a line that lingers and demands contemplation, and it characterizes the entire album. Pure Heroine’s catchy pop songs, subdued hip-hop, and honest lyrics contribute to an overall sound that can be irresistible. It’s my most-listened-to album for 2013 and should be recognized as one of the best that music has offered this year.

Next #13: Gravity