Paramore drops some unneeded weight with their self-titled, fourth studio album. This is the band’s first full-length release since the departure of Josh and Zac Farro (lead guitarist and drummer, respectively), which announced December of 2010, and honestly? Who cares? Paramore is the band’s finest effort to date and some of the best work I’ve heard from anyone all year.



It appears that there is definitely some bitterness and bad blood concerning Josh and Zac’s departure, or at least there was, which is beautifully showcased in tracks such as “Grow Up,” “Ankle Biters,” and “Ain’t it Fun.” With each new track, though, this anger fades away until the final track, “Future,” the title of which should plainly tell you what the band is focused on now.



With this release, the group loses some of its “high school” spunky style we’ve all come to enjoy. They’ve traded it in for a more realistic lyrical approach and an overall more adult sound, while still remaining quintessentially Paramore. There are so many excellent tracks worthy of attention on this album. The first single, “Now,” is consists of singer Hayley Williams’ best vocal work in the band’s catalog. “Ain’t it Fun” is by far the most interesting track on the record. You gotta love that 80s pop sound. It’s a very funky song with a lot of really groovy stuff going on in it. The “Interlude” tracks are also just so catchy and loveable. I mean, come on, who doesn’t LOVE the ukulele?



Paramore replaces Riot! as the band’s best work. It surpasses any work they have ever done 10-fold. I love the direction they are taking. Paramore has a fresh, new sound that is no doubt being welcomed by fans and critics with open arms. Josh and Zac won’t be missed.



Best Song - "Ain't it Fun"​

Runner-Up - "Now"​

Underdog - the "Interlude" tracks