Single Review: Paramore - This Is Why
Single Review: Paramore- ‘This is Why’
From left to right: Brendan Yates, Taylor York, Hayley Williams, Zac Farro
Photographed on set of “This Is Why” by Zachary Gray
Reviewed by: Natalia Pfeiffer
Genre: Rock Label: Atlantic
After just over five years since their previous chart-topping album release, Paramore is back with a brand new single and accompanying video titled “This Is Why” as well as an upcoming album of the same name. Pairing the funky pop rock of their previous release After laughter with a moodier production, the band again takes an opportunity to adopt new sounds into their catalog. Paramore was formed in 2004 and consists of Hayley Williams as their lead vocalist, Taylor York on guitar, and Zac Farro on drums.
Hayley Williams on set of “This Is Why”, photographed by Zachary Gray
The single starts out intriguing with a guitar riff reminiscent of the surf rock genre that quickly layers in a nimble bass loop and entrancing vocals from front woman Williams. “If you have an opinion maybe you should shove it, or maybe you should scream it. Might be best to keep it to yourself”, Williams sings entering the track for the first time, her tone sounding very similar to her own solo works that have come out over the five years since Paramore originally announced they were taking a break. The single really hooks its listeners in at its chorus. Williams hits the chorus hard, backed by vocal tracks of herself in different octaves that give the tune an extra coat of dimension. The song builds through the bridge, finally climaxing in its last line with a belt from Williams, “and I’m floating like a cannonball”. The song ends on a high, repeating the chorus for one last time, this time with a slight sense of urgency.
Check out the official ‘This is Why’ music video.
Adapting to a more neutral color scheme than they’re used to, Paramore opp for a weathered nature spot in Malibu, California as the location for their “This Is Why” video. Directed by Brendan Yates of Turnstile, The video cycles through a few locations to showcase each member of the band individually as well as a collective. Farro can be seen at his drum set and York swinging his body to the rhythm of his guitar line. Williams floats around through a few locations but first can be found sitting on a rock surrounded by water and various greenery. The video, while straight forward, visually looks great and along with the dynamic personality of the editing it perfectly matches the bands sonic rebirth.
Whether you’re new to the Paramore scene or have been a long time fan, it’s clear to see that this band is compassionate and dedicated to their craft while remaining humble of their excellence. “This Is Why”, the album out February 10th. It is sure to be worth your consideration.