Album Review: Paramore - Paramore
- Written by Faye Ducker
Four years is a long time for any band to hide away from the limelight, and Tennessee pop-rock trio Paramore had more reason than any other to do just that. After losing founding members Josh and Zac Farro after a brutal online feud in 2010, it’s easy to imagine Paramore fading into the pop punk abyss and staying there, never to return.
Instead, the band dusted themselves off and set to work on their fourth studio album: Paramore. Opening track ‘Fast In My Car’ plays with a heavy pop rock riff that wouldn’t sound out of place in a packed out stadium. Lyrically vocalist Hayley Williams throws two fingers up at the Farros straight away: “Been through the ringer a couple times/I came out callous and cruel/my two friends know this very well/because they went through it too”. First release ‘Now’ follows, and holds a better prominence in the context of the album than as a single. The band growl their way through the grunge inspired track, showing the world their new united front.
Although Paramore does contain some pretty heavy themes of vindication, it practically oozes happiness compared with last album Brand New Eyes. Newest single ‘Still Into You’ is Paramore personified in 3 minutes and 36 seconds, a quirky love song with a chorus catchy enough to claw its way into your head and stay there for a good few days.
The album is a huge leap into the unknown for Paramore, the experimental background of producer Justin Meldal-Johnsen pushes the band further than they’ve dared to venture before. The diversity of the record is astounding, with tracks ranging from the country-esque ukulele based interludes such as ‘I’m Not Angry Anymore’ to ‘80s funk instant classic ‘Ain’t It Fun’, which features a gospel choir (yes, you read that right) and is one of Williams' best vocal performances to date.
After losing their primary songwriter (former guitarist Josh Farro) speculation was rife as to whether the trio would be able to adapt to the abrupt changes, but this record proves that they have done just that, and with a clarity and honesty not present on any other Paramore album. Gentle ballad ‘Hate To See Your Heart Break’ is a prime example of this. A gorgeous string arrangement mirrors William’s beautifully sincere vocal performance.
The 17 song track list is a mighty one, but there is not one song that does not deserve its moment to shine. Paramore is a testament to the talent of its three members, a band that have been through more drama than your average soap opera, but have come out fresh, fighting and ready to conquer the world all over again.
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