Paramore: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert — DeepCutsArchive

DeepCutsArchive

Paramore: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert — DeepCutsArchive

Oct. 2, 2017 | Lars Gotrich -- Paramore's After Laughter captures the moment between rapture and its comedown, the glitter wiped away, left with skin rubbed raw. It's a record, more than a decade into the band's career, that not only exposes the sparkling pop that's always lit Paramore's songs, but also deals with the ache of growing up and growing apart. When Hayley Williams sings, "Tell my friends I'm coming down / We'll kick it when I hit the ground" from the '80s-tastic jam "Hard Times" at the Tiny Desk, the stark dichotomy is laid bare by the band's stripped-down performance that still packs a small synth and Zac Farro's drum machine into its Afro-pop-flecked textures. Backed here only by guitarist Taylor York, "26" is Williams' letter to a younger self, to still believe in dreams, knowing its costs. Paramore's quieter songs have never quite shown this depth of understated devastation and determination, and Williams reflects that nuance in a voice that scales the end of the line, "And they say that dreaming is free," with just the slightest trail of regret. These songs extend After Laughter's themes, racing across the spectrum of hope, with "Fake Happy" as a soaring anthem to expressing your truest self (and calling out those playing pretend). At the Tiny Desk, the shimmering guitars and synths almost become tropical, as if the band's all taken a big swig of Drake's "Passionfruit" and started a lowkey jam among friends. Set List "Hard Times" "26" "Fake Happy" MUSICIANS Hayley Williams (vocals), Taylor York (guitar), Zac Farro (drum machine), Logan MacKenzie (keys), Joseph Howard (bass), Justin York (guitar) CREDITS Producers: Lars Gotrich, Morgan Noelle Smith; Creative Director: Bob Boilen; Audio Engineers: Josh Rogosin; Videographers: Morgan Noelle Smith, Niki Walker, Maia Stern, Alyse Young; Production Assistant: Salvatore Maicki; Photo: Christina Ascani/NPR. For more Tiny Desk concerts, subscribe to our podcast: http://www.npr.org/podcasts/510292/tiny-desk-concerts-video

About This Footage

Paramore's 2017 NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert is a rare and captivating glimpse into the band's stripped-down soundscapes. Recorded at the iconic NPR headquarters in Washington D.C., this 12:41 clip showcases Paramore's ability to convey depth and nuance through their music.

One of the most striking aspects of this performance is the stark contrast between the band's pop-infused sound and the intimate, stripped-down setting of the Tiny Desk. With only guitarist Taylor York accompanying lead vocalist Hayley Williams and drummer Zac Farro, the trio creates a sense of vulnerability that underscores the emotional weight of their lyrics.

The song selection for this concert is particularly noteworthy, as it highlights the band's ability to balance catchy hooks with introspective themes. Tracks like "26" and "Fake Happy" demonstrate Paramore's capacity for crafting anthemic choruses while still conveying complex emotions through Williams' poignant vocals.

The NPR description of After Laughter aptly captures the essence of this album: a record that navigates the tension between rapture and comedown, growth and stagnation. This concert serves as a testament to the band's ability to distill these themes into concise, powerful performances.

What's particularly fascinating about Paramore is their evolution over the years. Formed in 2004, the band has undergone several lineup changes since its inception. The current iteration, featuring Williams, York, and Farro, has refined their sound while maintaining a commitment to creating music that resonates with listeners on a deep level.

The Tiny Desk Concert format provides an ideal platform for artists like Paramore to showcase their stripped-down soundscapes. By performing in such an intimate setting, the band is able to connect with their audience on a more personal level, conveying the emotional depth of their lyrics through subtle gestures and nuanced performances.

This 2017 concert is not only a rare glimpse into Paramore's creative process but also a testament to their ability to craft music that transcends genres. With its Afro-pop-flecked textures and synth-infused arrangements, this performance showcases the band's willingness to experiment and push boundaries while remaining true to their artistic vision.

Ultimately, Paramore's NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert is a must-watch for fans of the band and anyone interested in witnessing the artistry of a talented group of musicians. This 12:41 clip offers a unique perspective on the band's creative process and serves as a reminder of the power of music to convey complex emotions and themes with simplicity and elegance.

Curated from public records and music databases.