Paramore does it again with new album “This Is Why”

Brooklynn Pierce

Hayley Williams sings “Forgiveness” while the band plays along. She performed the song at their Omaha concert at the Orpheum on November 25.

As an avid Paramore listener, I can say that they have produced nothing short of incredible with their music. After hearing their most recent record from 2017, “After Laughter,” I was extremely excited for them to release their newest album “This Is Why.” It truly could have been any type of sound after switching from their punky alternative sound to an upbeat-pop album with “After Laughter.” It did not disappoint.  

When they released the singles “This Is Why,” “The News,” “C’est Comme Ca,” it felt like the older punk vibe was back in a little more modern way along with some funk elements. 

In an interview with Time  , Zac Farro, drummer of Paramore, states that the album is “its own special lane.” He added that their old sound was traditional rock but “this time we were waiting to see what it told us.”  

This album truly is a headbanger and a tearjerker. Every song has its own unique lyrics and sound that draws you in. The lyrics point to feeling isolated and the effects of change. I find most of it very relatable, and every song puts you into a whole new world.  

The way Hayley Williams pronounces and drags out her words will never get old. Her vocals get even better as time passes. You can hear the maturity in her voice as the band aged. 

This album is a must listen. There is not a single skip. I personally loved the song “Thick Skull” and “Liar.”  

“Thick Skull” is a beautiful song that reminds me of their other famous breakdown song “All I Wanted.” The lyrics are about having a hard time creating long-lasting and easy friendships. The song feels like something you could look out a window dramatically to and feel like you’re in a movie. It’s one big meltdown. 

“Liar” is a love song and softer compared to other songs on this album. The lyrics explain a distrust in love but that the person who the song is about proves that love is not weak. 

Another song that is completely worth the listen is “Crave,” which is about the growth the band has had and how they would do it all over again. To me it shows that Paramore appreciates what they have become. The vocals and drums really shine through in the song and have a hint of their older music to it.  

 

Paramore has impressed me like they do every time they release an album. Consistently raising the bar, I give this album a 5/5 rating.