Released: 2017

Genres: New Wave, Synthpop, Alternative Dance, Pop Rock

The Musiquarium’s After Laughter Review Score: 8 out of 10

After mostly moving away from the emo/pop punk of their first three albums, 2013’s Paramore saw the band experimenting into new wave and it’s darker sibling, post-punk. Comparatively, After Laughter finds the band in the new wave side of the punk spectrum, on this colourful and vibrant record. However, behind the upbeat music lies some of Hayley Williams darkest lyrics yet.

Lead single and opener Hard Times leaps out with its bright palette and tropical vibes. The other singles, Rose-Colored Boy, Told You So, Fake Happy and Caught in the Middle are all fantastic slices of pop. 26 is an acoustic, almost fairytale-like song. No Friend has guest vocals from Aaron Weiss, but they are mixed very low and the song just feels out of place. Tell Me How is a piano-led closer.

After Laughter is another excellent Paramore album that shows the band successfully branching off into new sonic directions, unwilling to be painted as a one trick pony. Like its predecessor, I prefer this sound to their earlier emo pop sound.

For credit breakdowns and historic release details, view Paramore on Discogs.

Back to the 2017 Album Guide or the Paramore Reviews page.

Written by Brett Nippard