Every Paramore record unloads a fresh heap of inter-band strife – this time, their bassist quit and ex-drummer rejoined. It feels unfair that discontent dominates their narrative (the feminist emo band that made a platinum pop crossover), but it also inspires great catharsis. Throughout, Hayley Williams doesn’t sugarcoat her frustrations with false idols, futile optimism or anxiety, while reshuffling has kept Paramore nimble, abandoning rock for Tom Tom Club and Bow Wow Wow’s polyrhythmic zest, at its sprightliest on Hard Times and Told You So. Excluding the syrupy 26 and seething No Friend, After Laughter could be one of the year’s best pop albums.
