Paramore, “This Is Why” | Track Review 🎵

After a five-year hiatus, Grammy-winning alternative band Paramore makes a strong comeback with “This is Why,” the title track from their sixth studio album.

“This is why I don’t leave the house / You say the coast is clear / But you won’t catch me out / Oh, why? / This is why.” Right on, right on! After a five-year hiatus, they’re back! Who? 🎙 Paramore, of course! The lineup has changed throughout the lifetime of the 🏆 Grammy-winning band, at one time comprised of five members.  The current lineup features 🎙 Hayley Williams, 🎙 Taylor York, and 🎙 Zac Farro.  This lineup seems to work well, particularly on their spirited comeback single, 🎵 “This Is Why”.  By the way, “This Is Why” serves as the title track for the band’s sixth studio album, which arrives on February 10, 2023.

There are lots of things to like about “This Is Why.” First and foremost, Hayley Williams sounds as awesome as ever.  She’s definitely locked in and on autopilot from start to finish.  Beyond her fine vocal performance, her fellow band members are on-point too.  Zac Farro sounds great on drums, anchoring things down with some sick grooves.  Furthermore, her boyfriend, Taylor York, shines on guitar.  One of the big question marks is about the void left by their ex-bassist… Well, on “This is Why” their guest bassist rocks out, providing a fat foundation, so, that’s a pro.  Of course, beyond the excellent performance by all parties, what does “This is Why” entail lyrically and thematically? It encompasses protecting one’s mental health, especially from hateful, insensitive, and opinionated folks, whom Williams considers to be toxic.  She warns of the toxicity and how it can affect her.  It’s best exemplified in the chorus, though the bridge is another masterful illustration:

“One step beyond your door

It might as well have been a free fall

…One step beyond your door

And I’m floating like a cannonball.”

Final Thoughts 💭 

Despite the toxicity of some people in the world, there’s nothing toxic in the least about 🎵 “This Is Why”.  This is a sound comeback for a band that’s been MIA for half a decade – think about it! The songwriting is strong, the vocals on fire, and honestly, everything feels right about this title track from 💿 This Is Why.  Paramore, you’ve earned my seal of approval!

🎙 Paramore • 💿 This Is Why • 🏷 Atlantic • 🗓 2.10.22

[📷: Atlantic, Brent Faulkner, The Musical Hype, OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay]