8/10

Despite being one of the biggest rock bands in the world throughout the noughties, Paramore have had their fair share of issues over the last few years. From legal disputes, band members leaving and then returning, and a popularity in decline, it was certainly becoming clear that a fresh start is what they needed. And so comes 'After Laughter', their first studio album in four years, with a new sound that has definitely reignited them as a group.

When they first unveiled the lead single and album opener 'Hard Times' earlier this year, fans of the group were obviously mixed in their opinions. The band have dropped their explosive and brash rock sound for a more twinkly indie direction that would have suited Haim or The 1975 more. But even though this is not the Paramore people were expecting, it is still a damn fine release with some expert production and countless catchy songs running throughout.

Many have already compared this new sound to the emerging 80s revival movement, and that seems the most apt comparison to make on 'After Laughter'. But even though it is offering up nothing new, it is still an incredibly likeable sound that will no doubt reestablish them as the great band that they are.