Despite the original release of this album being handled in an infuriating way - releasing as a collection of 19 singles instead of an album making finding it on streaming nearly impossible - it was one of my favorites of 2025.
I'll admit that I didn't grow up listening to Paramore, but like many artists that were popular when I was a kid, there's a certain way Hayley Williams' music feels relatable. There are tracks on here dealing with her past, the way she sees herself, and the realities of getting older.
The instrumentals and production on this album are enjoyable and varied. Nothing here feels repetitive, and I feel each track is memorable in some way.
Glum is one of my favorite tracks. It deals with a feeling of isolation and loneliness that comes from feeling directionless later in life. She looks at people around her that feel like they have things figured out while she feels lost.
Love Me Different is a track dealing with trauma of a bad relationship. I really like the message in the chorus, as it feels hopeful and future looking
And I know that you're probably telling yourself that no one's gonna love me like you did
And I know that you're probably right about that, but someone's gonna love me different
And I want someone to love me different
True Believer is a nostalgic view of Hayley's southern roots and an indictment of the glaring hypocrisy on display from political and faith leaders. A message I think needs to reach far more people these days.
The packaging on this release is excellent. The gatefold feels high quality, and the pressing itself is quiet and free of any defects. A release I'm happy to have in my collection.