ON KEY WITH RYAN

After the huge success of Riot!, Paramore went into their third album with some pretty high expectations. But instead of cracking under pressure, they delivered Brand New Eyes, an album that easily exceeded all of them. What we didn’t know at the time was that the tension and conflict within the band were pushing them to make their most emotional and sonically evolved music yet, moving beyond their earlier pop-punk feel.

While the album retains the high-energy, pop-punk spirit of their previous music, it also marks a significant turning point. Paramore introduced softer songs with more acoustic and vulnerable lyrics, exemplified by tracks like “Misguided Ghosts” and “The Only Exception.” This duality showcased a more mature and emotionally complex side of the band, led by singer Hayley Williams. The album boasts a sharper and cleaner sound than its predecessor, highlighting the intricate musicianship of then-guitarist Josh Farro and drummer Zac Farro.

For me, one of the album’s most remarkable aspects is its lyrical depth, which stands in stark contrast to their previous work. The songs serve as a direct reflection of the band’s inner conflict, exploring themes of betrayal, loneliness, love, and reconciliation. Tracks like “Ignorance” and “Playing God” vividly convey feelings of conflict, while “Misguided Ghosts” captures a profound sense of alienation. In contrast, “The Only Exception” showcases a powerful message of love and reconciliation. The album’s lyrics often feel like a raw, public confessional for Hayley and the group.

Ultimately, Brand New Eyes was met with widespread acclaim from fans and critics alike. It earned Paramore a new level of respect from fellow rock artists and is widely regarded as their most mature and honest album to date. Knowing now about the group’s internal falling out and the subsequent departure of members, the album is viewed with a bittersweet sadness. Its very title feels like a poignant statement, transforming the album from a simple collection of great songs into a powerful testament to how a band’s controversy can forge one of its finest works.

Standout Tracks

• Brick By Boring Brick
• The Only Exception
• Misguided Ghosts