Paramore might not be tapping into anything new, but it has finally hit its stride, making pop-punk anthems that match the praise it garnered with its average debut.  Full text...

The music is pretty much what you'd expect. No huge risks, nothing really outside of the norm, and usually the instruments simply act as a vehicle for a little female driven angst. What's nice about portions of the CD is how the band's not afraid to play some faster and harder tunes ... in fact, my personal favorite, "Crushcrushcrush," is possibly the most "rock" tune on the disc and contains arguably one of the catchiest hooks recorded this year.  Full text...

The album just isn't nearly as cohesive as you wish. It really lacks lasting value. This is a driving-down-the-highway-to-the-beach album, a real summer album. But other than that, you won't really ever feel like revisiting at other times--sadly.  Full text...

Paramore's music is still fun and keeps you pumped with energy. Their second release Riot isn't a rambunctious punk but more like a melodic punk that feels cool and invigorating. Their rock fittings are measured for the Vans Warped crowd but their offering is totally ripe for a wider market.  Full text...

Paramore's second album Riot! is essentially more of the same as their first, All We Know Is Falling. Musically, it's a bit of an upgrade, but that's never been a major selling point for this band, which will probably never do anything to further the music world with its basic chord progressions and simple song structures.  Full text...

People, get your pop-punk thrills somewhere else. At least somewhere where there are actual thrills to be had.  Full text...