Lorde’s Perth Ultrasound Tour: A Star Ascends & Strips Back
“Let me be your ruler.”
Those words, made famous in Lorde’s 2012 breakthrough track “Royals,” were once simply a fantasy for the teenage girl who dreamed bigger than her hometown in New Zealand.
Now, as she delivered a captivating performance at RAC Arena in Perth on , those lyrics carried a palpable sense of truth.
Closing the Australian and New Zealand leg of her Ultrasound World Tour, the 29-year-old artist commanded the stage with a presence befitting her industry stature. At one point, she playfully acknowledged her own success, teasing the audience, “don’t get too starstruck seeing her in person.”
The Ultrasound World Tour supports Lorde’s fourth studio album, Virgin, which debuted at number one on the ARIA Albums Chart (Australia), the Aotearoa Music Charts (New Zealand), and the Official Albums Chart (UK). The album, co-produced by Lorde, Jim-E Stack, and Dan Nigro, features tracks including “What Was That,” “Man Of The Year,” “Hammer,” “Favourite Daughter” and “Shapeshifter.”
Lorde’s performance demonstrated a command of the stage that transcended any debate about her current cultural relevance. The sustained energy of the Perth crowd was impressive, even as she navigated tracks from her more recent albums, Virgin and 2021’s Solar Power, which don’t immediately possess the same driving basslines as her earlier work.
However, live, those songs took on a fuller sound, with the lyrics hitting harder and the energy becoming undeniably intoxicating.
Prior to the show, there were concerns about Lorde’s health following performances in Melbourne, but she appeared strong and energetic throughout the evening, even mentioning a visit to Rottnest Island earlier that day.
The performance wasn’t simply a run-through of hits; it was a personal journey for both Lorde and her fans. Her willingness to be vulnerable, symbolized by the gradual removal of clothing during the 110-minute set, was striking. Starting in a T-shirt and jeans, she loosened her belt, removed her pants, and eventually performed in her underwear, a bold display of self-acceptance.
Lorde’s performance was a testament to her evolution as an artist and a human being. She connected with the audience on a deeply personal level, offering a glimpse into her vulnerabilities, and triumphs. The show culminated in a powerful encore, featuring renditions of “A World Alone” and “Ribs,” leaving the Perth crowd with a lasting impression.
While the opening act, American singer and rapper Kevin Abstract, provided an energetic start, his unfamiliarity to many in the audience meant his set didn’t resonate as strongly.
the night belonged to Lorde, a pop star who continues to redefine the boundaries of her art.
RATING
4.5 stars out of 5.