Paramore – All We Know Is Falling

One of the main selling points behind Paramore, whether Fueled by Ramen wants it to be or not, is their singer.

At 16 years old, Hayley Williams is obviously leaving the dream. Making music in a band, getting a record deal with a great independent label, playing during the summer’s Warped Tour and releasing a CD which is available all around the world. It’s pretty impressive, and I know I won’t be the only one who wants to see if Williams has the pipes to pull off a solid recording – and I’m sure that alone will be incentive enough for a lot of people to pick up the album.

It’s very clear that Williams does indeed have the ability to belt out an entertaining album. Her vocals are strong, harmonious and contain a very impressive range. They are able to propel the band forward where they would normally be stuck stagnant. Because really, other than the vocals, Paramore is nothing you haven’t heard before. Pretty basic riffs, steady drumming, and just your regular pop-rock band. It’s not horrible, but needs an extra punch to put it over the edge, and that’s where Williams comes in. She is able to bring the song to a new level, and you’re soon singing along.

All We Know Is Falling isn’t life changing, but it is entertaining and makes for a nice, relaxing listen. There are still two main downsides to the album though, first is that a lot of the songs tend to sound the same and blend into one another. Only a few songs really stand out in the mix, while the remaining tracks mix into one another. Second is the use of screaming vocals in the backdrop of the album closer My Heart. It doesn’t sound too bad, but having it only in the final track of the album screams out “trendy”. If they had used it more often it would work, but only on one song makes it seem too forced.

At 16, Hayley Williams has been a part of something she should be proud of and something a lot of people will fall in love with. She has an incredible voice, and I’m excited to see what she’ll come out with next.