Lorde's Clear CD Release Faces Major Playback Issues

Lorde's latest album, 'Virgin,' was released as a special edition clear, fully recyclable CD sold exclusively on her website, which is now sold out. Fans report that the transparent disc is incompatible with most CD players, car stereos, and boomboxes, due to its lack of a standard reflective layer necessary for playback. While some users have managed to rip low-quality files using PCs, the majority cannot play the CD at all, prompting widespread frustration on social media and Reddit. No traditional CD version is available, and Lorde's team has not yet addressed the complaints. As a result, many fans are seeking alternatives such as vinyl or digital formats. The controversy has also renewed debate about Lorde's approach to physical music releases, following her previous decision to avoid CDs for 'Solar Power.'