Paramore Now

By: Kate Clough & Trevor Forrey

     Paramore is back with a highly-anticipated, self-titled release: “Now,” being released in the U.S. April 9. From the start, Paramore has been known for their pop melodies and powerhouse chords, which have been a part of their music since 2005. When the band released “Riot!” in 2007 they were instantly turned into musical heavyweights and the album went platinum the following year.

     However in 2008, Paramore struggled due to an out lash by the media. Staying intact with the original lineup, Paramore went to California to work on a third album. In 2010, Williams became a top-charter with “Airplanes,” a multi-platinum collaboration with hip-hop artist B.o.B. Former Paramore guitarist Josh Farro wrote a blog post detailing the band’s history, including, record company, Atlantic’s early involvement with William’s solo career contract.

     Paramore will be making a comeback in the U.S. with their new album “Now.” Carrying a new sound that cranks the soul with edgy notes and ripped-raw echoes, lead vocalist Hayley Williams, bassist Jeremy Davis and guitarist Taylor York have come a long way since their first album “All We Know Is Falling” in 2005, especially with their beat.

     “A lot of change, a lot of positivity—musically, I am most inspired by the personality captured in every instrument,” said Williams in an interview with Kyle McGovern for Spin.com.

“That, to me, is actually what is making up this newer sound that is happening.”

     The new personality developing from the band’s style of music is very different from their original, according to Red Mountain junior Kevin Apuan.

    “Paramore has gone through many changes since they first started. I think when they first started; their music displayed a sort of angsty teenage sound, especially in their album “Riot!” Their hit single, ‘Misery Business’ is a great example of that, as Hayley sings about how she’s made her boyfriend’s wildest dreams come true and none of them involved his ex,” said Apuan. “From there, in their album ‘Brand New Eyes,’ the band goes through a dramatic change, drifting to more mature lyrics with deeper meanings behind them, such as in ‘Turn It Off,’ a song that could be interpreted in many ways, but to me is a song about struggling to find faith. Clearly there’s a large difference there.”

     The band has welcomed the changes with open arms and is excited for what is to come.

     “[It’s] the most relaxed, inspired, and liberating experience we have had...thus far.” Williams added to her statement, posting on Twitter, “So many exciting things happening in the studio today I just wanna break stuff in the best way possible. This album is an answered prayer.”

     The new album’s track list and the band’s tour dates have been released and can be seen on the band’s website at www.paramore.net.