Illinois Entertainer March 2023 | Page 13

PARAMORE This Is Why
( Atlantic )
After a nearly six year hiatus , Paramore is back with a vengeance , and their new album This Is Why is proof that time apart makes the musical heart grow fonder . Joining its neopop predecessor After Laughter in solidifying Paramore ’ s golden trio – Zac Farro on drums , Taylor York on guitar , and the iconic Hayley Williams on vocals – Paramore is not only back , but they ' re stronger than ever . Lyrics from “ You First ” reminds us of where Paramore has been after all this time . “ Thought I ’ d simmer down as I got older , can ’ t shake the devil sitting on my shoulder ;” a nod to Williams ’ 2020 single “ Simmer ” carries us right back to the band ' s roots . Dynamic and evocative , this album is seething with rage in adjusting – or not adjusting – to the world as it reemerges post-pandemic . Our anger never disappears ; it only evolves , just like Paramore . In perfect combination , This Is Why takes on the lyrical exploration of Williams ’ 2021 solo album Flowers for Vases in tandem with the angsty rock production of Paramore ’ s 2009 album Brand New Eyes . Still , This is Why stands solidly on solid ground . The title track and lead single , “ This is Why ,” opens with a soulful punch , reminding us that they haven ’ t completely abandoned the infectious groove and dance-pop elements adopted nearly ten years ago . A strong opener that doesn ’ t give away too much of the remaining tracklist , we are revealed to impeccable production and musicianship . Despite their ever-transforming sound , it ’ s clear they aren ’ t strangers to the game . A lot has happened since we last heard from Paramore , and the pandemic isn ’ t where it ends . 2020 ’ s Petals for Armor tapped into a new side of Williams following her 2017 divorce from New Found Glory guitarist Chad Gilbert . More vulnerable than her past work in Paramore , Williams ’ entering her thirties while exploring herself as an individual set up a perfect storm for “ Big Man , Little Dignity .” Avoice as demanding as Williams ’ deserves production to match , and her two friends know this very well . With classic biting , tongue-in-cheek lyricism , this standout track is a true testament to Hayley Williams as an artist . Paramore is no secret to exploring anger , but “ Big Man , Little Dignity ” masquerades this fury with femininity . Bookended with soft woodwinds and a leading flute , the track opens delicately juxtaposed , quietly nestled between the guitar-heavy “ C ’ est Comme Ça ” and “ You First .” The anger only seeps through in strategic vocal tics and rasp , only to be immediately cooled off again . Smooth and palatable , this track is the quintessence of female rage without blatant commentary , just as reserved as
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