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Frontwoman Hayley Williams proves why she’s built such a loyal following over the years as a punk goddess. Her vocals are exceptional live; a definite improvement from earlier gigs when her vocals could at times prove quite shaky.
The guitar skills of both Taylor York and Jeremy Davis were also on full display as they individually played awesome riffs; getting their share of the limelight and showing Hayley isn’t the only talent in the band.
A wide array of people attended, old and young, wearing shirts and merchandise from their present and past albums. The band took to the stage following support from Charli XCX, who really set the tone for the gig with their fun, energetic set.
A black curtain dropping to reveal the illuminated Paramore black bars logo welcomed them to the stage and they started their set with Grow Up.
Their performance of Now was almost note for note identical to the record and was a definite high point of the show.
Hayley shows an innate ability to make you feel the lyrics of her songs, especially during the performance of When It Rains; the depth and tone of her voice were piercing. This was played acoustically on Piano, thus vindicating fans’ awe for her and creating a more intimate vibe, the crowd’s voices reverberating through the arena.
Also performed were some of the interludes from the current album, I’m Not Angry Anymore, Holiday and Moving On; Paramore managing to fit them in alongside a wide array of full songs from this album and many older hits.
They performed a surprise track called In The Mourning, a song written shortly after Josh and Zac Farro left the band in 2010.
Ain’t It Fun, another highlight, provided a first-rate vocal, as did That’s What You Get, Misery Business, Decode and Monster, where, despite head-banging and vigorous dancing which riled up the already wild crowd, her voice never seemed to waver.
During Misery Business, a giddy fan was brought to the stage to perform Hayley’s ‘part’ (as she called it) with her; which created an aura of spontaneity and excitement.
Fans who are not enthralled by their change in direction musically, would no doubt still enjoy their live show – as there was something for every fan, both old and new.