Although it doesn’t quite reach the heights of the band’s best songs, Crushcrushcrush should not be ignored. Nevertheless, the slightly cheesy elements do not manage to detract from what is an early example of the band’s trademark sound. Unfortunately, the song’s bridge/breakdown “ Rock and roll baby / Don’t you know / That we’re all alone now” manages to negate this creepy tone, sounding almost like it originated from a different song altogether.
This is in sharp contrast to the titular crushcrushcrush, which is delivered in a sinister and ominous whisper in the song’s pre-chorus interlude – sounding like a commercial for a particularly unsettling perfume. You can practically feel the energy of the hoards of fans punching the air to every syllable of the chorus’ “ No-thing com-pares to…” vocal hook. The third single from 2007’s Riot! album, Crushcrushcrush is a great example of the band’s ability to create immensely catchy choruses. Still, thankfully the revolving door of band members has never impacted on the quality of Paramore’s output, with them delivering four excellent albums to date. Other than Williams, the band’s members have changed a lot over the years, with founding members Josh and Zac Farro leaving in 2010 (with Zac rejoining the band in 2017), and various other members coming and going throughout the band’s tenure. As well as being a contemporary rock trailblazer, Williams’ iconic fiery orange hair and excellent dress sense have seen her become a fashion idol to many, earning the band coverage in publications which might otherwise ignore them. More than this, though, as one of very few women in rock music, she is an example to all that gender does not matter in the slightest when it comes to being a rock star. Perhaps key to the band’s success is frontwoman Hayley Williams, who’s distinctive and harmonious voice is the perfect foil to the band’s crunchy and powerful guitar riffs. Part of the Fueled By Ramen family, the band have gone from strength to strength over the years and even headlined the Reading & Leeds festivals in 2014. Photo: By Drew Stewart, via Wikimedia CommonsFormed in 2004, Paramore are an American rock band specializing in alternative rock, pop punk, and emo.