Paramore (“After Laughter”) has finally returned to the music scene after six years with their album “This Is Why.” The iconic 2000s band has seen many trials and tribulations throughout their career as young musicians. The path to the newest album proved to be difficult because of bumps in the road, like breakups, controversy, departures and drama between members.

The remaining members Hayley Williams (“Rose-Colored Boy”), Taylor York (“Hard Times”) and Zac Farro (“Fake Happy”) have cemented their spot in the modern post-punk world, joining other iconic 2000s alternative bands in this experimental and controversial change of sound. 

The title track, which was released back in September 2022, evoked a sour response among longtime fans during its release. This title track works to encapsulate the feelings of chaos in the modern day. This post-punk song had listeners longing for the band’s older, more alternative sounds that they started out with. At the same time, others were intrigued by the band’s dive into a more experimental funk sound. Despite differing opinions, this title track is one that will definitely stick in the heads of its listeners.

For those who are looking for new songs to add to their indie pop playlist, “Running Out of Time” and “C’est Comme Ça” may just be new favorites. The lyrics of “Running Out of Time” may resonate well with listeners who are always struggling with time. The lyrics of this song describe common things that are relatable to its listeners from repeatedly hitting snooze on the alarm or possibly lying about arriving at a location in five minutes. 

While still following the same indie trend, “Crave,” “You First” and “Big Man, Little Dignity” switched it up. Although for those who tend to stick to the older sounds of the 2000s, these may end up being a skip. These songs introduce the use of experimental synth allowing for a sense of nostalgia and looking back on the past. The lyrics follow this, talking about that feeling of wanting something back to the point of romanticizing it or resenting it. Those who are familiar with the history of the band may insinuate that the songs comes from Williams’ desire to have the band as it once was, but also recognizing that it is not possible in the modern day.

Taking the tempo down a notch, “Liar” and “Thick Skull” may become a part of listeners’ more solemn playlists. As the album’s ballads, these slow songs strive to show the pain that one may feel from love and relationships, with more emotional build ups and “Liar” relying on a more folk feel in order to portray the correct emotions.

For those who like to stick to the more punk and alternative feel of the band, “The News” and “Figure 8” will more than likely be the favorites of this album. These songs are in line with the more punk sound that made the band popular back in the 2000s while still criticizing the hardships of modern day life. From talking about the frustration of constantly seeing what is going wrong in the world to feeling like every bad mistake is constantly repeating.

“This Is Why” is a reflection on everything the members of Paramore have gone through since their last album. It shows humanity, love, moving on and being a young adult trying to navigate life. While it may be difficult to become a favorite for those who tend to stick to what they are used to, it is well worth the listen for those interested in the post-punk, modern indie feel in 2023.

Image from Paramore via YouTube