Due to an oversight on my part, I initially left one of my top 20 albums off of the list. Adding it back in meant I had to bump the previous #20 into oblivion.
I realized the error after I had already started writing my posts, so rather than discard my thoughts on the unlucky album now in the 21st slot, I’m presenting them today in place of my usual Random Weekend post.
Several albums on this top 20 are works my entire family has enjoyed. These are collections of songs we’ve listened to on countless family trips, whether down the street to Publix, across town to visit family, or on the open road in Utah, Hawaii or Italy. Those shared experiences lend special meaning to the songs.
After Laughter is the fifth album from alt-rock band Paramore, and the first one I know well. My daughter has been a fan for awhile now, and I’m familiar with some of the band’s earlier songs, but this one really grabbed me start to finish.
That’s probably due to its New Wave influences and 80s pop sheen, a new sound for the band and one they pull off beautifully. Lyrically, the album is pretty dark, touching on themes of depression and anxiety that stand in stark contrast to the buoyant music.
I dove in again ’cause I’m not into giving up
Could’ve gotten the same rush from any lover’s touch
Why get used to something new?
‘Cause no one breaks my heart like you
And you kiss me, and you wish we could see what happens next
For a moment, I can forget what happens in my head
If I doubt you, will you come through with a happy second chance?
A happy ending
But this time you don’t leave me sinking
I’m underwater
With no air in my lungs
My eyes are open
I’m done giving up
You are the wave
I could never tame
If I survive
I’ll dive back in
As if the first blood didn’t thrill enough
I went further out to see what else was left of us
Never found the deep end of our little ocean
Drain the fantasy of you
Headfirst into shallow pools
And I wonder, is it better to get it over with?
The illusion, can shatter before we begin
If you’re really sorry
Happy second chance, I think I could forgive
This time you won’t leave me sinking
I’m underwater
With no air in my lungs
My eyes are open
I’m done giving up
You are the wave
I could never tame
If I survive
I’ll dive back in
Dive back into
Right back into
Dive right back into you
Now I know you
Now that I know you
Now that I know you
Dive right back into you
Dive back into
Right back into you
Dive right back into you
Now I know you
Now that I know you
Now that I know you
Dive right back into you
I’m underwater
With no air in my lungs
My eyes are open
I’m done giving up
You are the wave
I could never tame
If I survive
I’ll dive back in
I’m underwater
With no air in my lungs
My eyes are open
I’m done giving up
You are the wave
I could never tame
If I survive
I’ll dive back in
I’ll dive back in
I’ll dive back
My daughter has always been a big Paramore fan, so I’m sure she will be pleased with your corrected inclusion of their album in your top 20 (21).
I have not yet listened to this whole album through! All the bops I’ve heard off of it so far, however, have given me a very positive reaction to this pop turn for Paramore. This one is no exception. Contemplative lyrics with a driving beat could be my go to description for my favorite kind of song. “26” is my favorite song off the album that I’ve heard so far.
Love this album and, yes, always been a big Paramore fan. 🙂 I listen to Pool a lot, probably the song I return to most from this album.