Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating * * * *

This Is Why the evolution of a band must be allowed to run its course, for how else does an artist see a distant perspective and believe they can drive into it with fury and vigour in equal measure if they aren’t given the space to explore, to rejuvenate, to re-emerge in a different light.

The reasons for longevity are manyfold, but it normally comes down to trust, the faces may change, the sound may alter in its direction, but the message, that of truth, honesty, and faith in your objective and story, that is the conviction to which we hold ourselves accountable; and for Paramore, This Is Why they should be considered as perhaps not just as a fresh approach from a group to whom are considered one of the most insanely appealing of their generation, but as deep dive into the fierce nature of lyrical anger…the sound may be sweet, the message sincere, but the words between the lines, they come baring the fruit of adventure undertaken where that far off progression and growth is now the a la mode of their career.

The focal point will arguably always be vocalist Hayley Williams, but with Taylor York’s and Zac Farro’s forceful addition and depth of musicianship hammering home the importance of the power of the trio, and with impressive contributions from Carlos de la Garza and Kayla Graninger on various backing vocals, Brian Robert Jones on bass guitar, Henry Solomon on bass clarinet and flute, and Phil Danyew on glockenspiel and keyboards, songs such as Running Out Of Time, You First, The News, Liar, Thick Skull, and the album title track, This Is Why, Paramore sound more complete and broad sounding than perhaps at any time in the group’s history.

Not so much a fan pleaser as 2007s Riot!, but an album of security, of widespread charm and engagement, one that is sincere in its direction without having to drive the excess, This Is Why Paramore continue, they have evolved, they have become their own virtue, and it is impressive to behold.

Ian D. Hall