It reminded me of a more pop-y version of Neon Indian’s album,, from 2013.” “ definitely new for them, but something familiar for me. Pitchfork, for example, gave the album a 7.5 out of 10 and praised the work.įrancisco Lopez, a philosophy major and senior at the University, had a positive view of the album. The band’s new sound has been received positively. Hayley’s performance on the track is unlike any other on the album, and is reminiscent of “Ignorance” without such harsh guitar work. Upon first listening to it, fans need to take a double-take to make sure that it’s still Williams on the track. However, these instrumentals easily usher the fire in the verses to a slow simmer in the chorus. The backing instrumentals from Farro, York and the session band, upbeat tempos, dancing basslines, and a major chord progression, do not particularly match the subject matter of the song, a heavy-hearted song about not being worthy of being looked on as a hero. Unlike in previous songs, Hayley Williams is almost spitting through the lyrics in the verses. “Idle Worship,” one of the last songs on the album exhibits the raw power and emotion that the album has brought into the alternative sphere. The difference “After Laughter” presents is their angry and emotional lyrics from their older albums laced over major scales, synths, and clean guitars. From the early days of 2005’s “All We Know Is Falling,” 2007’s “Riot!” and 2009’s “Brand New Eyes,” to the release of their self-titled album in 2012, Paramore traded their heavily distorted guitars for a pop sound in their songs “Ain’t It Fun” and “Still Into You,” and ukuleles in their song “Interlude: Moving On.” The change is a welcome surprise, and exhibits the versatility and talent within Hayley Williams, the vocal powerhouse behind Paramore, Taylor York, the guitarist, and Farro.Ĭhanging their music style is not a new concept for the band or their fans. Paramore’s same punching lyrics are laced over pop melodies and a guitar tone reminiscent of Two Door Cinema Club. With the homecoming of Zac Farro on the drums and the sudden exit of Jeremy Davis, the bassist, Paramore has put away their previously pop-punk-influenced style and has brought in a new radio-friendly, alternative sound.ĭavis seemed to be the one who influence the sound brought on in Paramore’s earlier albums, whereas his exit brought a much cleaner and more refined sound. With their comeback, the band brings a new sound, a new look, and a new line-up. After almost four years away from the charts, Paramore breaks their previous musical mold with a successfully executed, synth-filled, alternative rock direction in their new album “ After Laughter.