If you read my PSA about Paramore’s long-awaited return, you’ll know that I am 100% on board with the band’s revival and was more than ready for some new grooves. With the full album released a couple of weeks ago, I’ve had ample time to give the entire album a few listens and pick out my absolute favorites that I know I’ll be singing for years to come.
Anyone who listens to Paramore and connects to their messages will understand that this band will never lie or shy away from the sometimes ugly realities of life. From the honest lyrics to melodies that hit right to your core, Paramore has always been able to reach out to their fans with their music and seemingly say, “We’re here. We know what you’re going through and we’ll get through it all together”. The same goes for their newest album, After Laughter, which reveals the ups and downs of adult life but helps you dance away whatever may be holding you down. Each song is a much needed reminder that it’s okay feel down sometimes or make mistakes and that there are great things in life that make it all worthwhile.
As young people in a time when everything feels more uncertain than we are used to, Paramore’s After Laughter album comes at a perfect moment in our lives. If we can count on one thing, it’s that good music and artistry in general, will always be there to pick us up when we fall and keep us strong. So, without further ado, here are some of my favorites from After Laughter that I hope you will enjoy too!
1. “Rose Colored Boy”
Fave lyric: “Low-key! No pressure! Just hang with me and my weather!”
My take: Sometimes things suck and we can’t help but turn into a bit of a pessimist. Even during such times, there are people who see the world differently and can stay optimistic through thick and thin. As great as that seems, this song makes it clear that not all of us can be so “rose colored too”.
2. “Told You So”
Fave lyric: “I know you like when I admit that I was wrong and you were right. At least I try to keep my cool when I am thrown into a fire”
My take: There are always some people in life who love to be right even if it’s at your own expense. I love this song for more than its cool melody (and music video aesthetics). I think anyone who has taken risks or battle with any forms of doubt can relate to this song.
3. “Fake Happy”
Fave lyric: “And if I go out tonight, dress up my fears; You think alright with these mascara tears?”
My take: While Paramore and entertainers is general, face a large pressure to at least appear happy and energetic, I think being “fake happy” is feeling that anyone can understand. Whether we’re putting on a brave face for friends, family or even ourselves, there are times when we just gotta fake it until we make it. This song shows a vulnerability that even the strongest, happiest person will have experienced at some point.
4. “Idle Worship”
Fave lyric: “Remember how we used to like ourselves? What little light that’s left, we need to keep it sacred”
My take: This track, reminiscent of Paramore’s signature angsty rock sound, is the perfect for anyone familiar with the pressures of living up to the expectations of others and the expectations that we have for ourselves.
5. “Tell Me How”
Fave lyric: “Of all the weapons you fight with, your silence is the most violent”
My take: “Tell Me How” is one of the songs on the album that immediately grabbed my attention. In terms of the vibes of the song, “Tell Me How” is the perfect thing to listen to at the end of the day when you wanna unwind and maybe get a little introspective. Message wise, it’s about what it’s like to feel disconnected from people you once knew. Those who know Paramore’s story will know a bit more about what may have inspired this song but the feelings laid out on this track are universal.
Paramore has created another masterpiece of an album to get us moving and grooving or just help get us through those tough nights. Be sure to listen to the entire After Laughter album, which is available on Itunes, Spotify and even YouTube! Happy listening!
Thanks for reading! :)