CD Review: Paramore's All We Know is Falling

The cover of Paramore’s first CD, All We Know is Falling, offers a serene picture of a red couch. At first glance, it seems so comfortable and inviting, and yet from another view it looks plain, empty, and utterly forgettable. This cover sets the scene for a CD that is neither good nor bad. The only thing I can say is listening to it was a lackluster experience.

As I popped the CD in my player and poised my ear in so I could listen intently, I immediately heard strong instrumentals. I am not disputing the talent of this bunch because for a group of such young band members I could see them all growing immensely as artists. For example, the band’s drummer, Zac Farro is just 15 and is posed to have a wonderful career in the music business if he wants it. Likewise, the bassist and lead guitarist, Josh Farro and Jeremy Davis are equally talented.

There were moments, when I was listening to tracks like "Emergency" and "Pressure" I got the vibe of the similar sounding, Goo Goo Dolls who I do enjoy listening to on occasion. I also found there was something lacking… something I could not figure out until the third time I listened through the CD.

The singer of the group, Hayley Williams, is just 17 years old. Even thought she is already showing talent in her vocals, I have to say I felt her voice was out of place. As I listened to many songs, such as, "All We Know" and "Never Let This Go", I was reminded of an orchestral piece that needed no vocals.

This may or may not be true, but the fact is that Hayley’s voice, while teeming with potential, needs the strength to match the force of the band behind her. The vibe I got from Hayley was that of a ballad singer (think Amy Lee of Evanescence) while the band behind her was alternative (think Simple Plan).