Paramore's third studio album, Brand New Eyes, was released on September 29, 2009, and marked a significant turning point in the band's career. The album's title, Brand New Eyes, refers to the idea of seeing things from a fresh perspective, and this theme is reflected in the album's lyrics and music. With Hayley Williams on lead vocals, Taylor York on guitar, Jeremy Davis on bass, and Josh Farro on guitar, the band created an album that was both a commercial success and a critical acclaim.
Background and Recording
The recording process for Brand New Eyes was not without its challenges. The band members had been touring non-stop for several years, and the tension between them was starting to show. In an interview, Hayley Williams revealed that the band had been on the verge of breaking up, but they eventually came together to create an album that was true to themselves. The album was produced by Rob Cavallo and Paramore, and recorded at Hidden Hills in California. The band’s goal was to create an album that was more experimental and pushed the boundaries of their previous work.
Lyrical Themes
The lyrics on Brand New Eyes are deeply personal and reflective, with Hayley Williams drawing from her own experiences with relationships, self-doubt, and frustration. Songs like “Ignorance” and “Playing God” showcase the band’s ability to craft catchy, yet meaningful lyrics that resonated with their fans. The album also features more introspective songs like “The Only Exception” and “Misery Business”, which demonstrate the band’s growth and maturity as songwriters.
| Song Title | Length |
|---|---|
| Ignorance | 3:38 |
| Brick by Boring Brick | 4:13 |
| Turn It Off | 4:19 |
| The Only Exception | 4:27 |
| Playing God | 3:02 |
Reception and Impact
Brand New Eyes received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising the band’s growth and maturity. The album debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200 chart and was certified platinum by the RIAA. The album’s lead single, “Ignorance”, peaked at number one on the US Alternative Songs chart, while the second single, “Brick by Boring Brick”, reached number three on the same chart. The album’s success can be attributed to the band’s ability to craft catchy, yet meaningful songs that resonated with their fans.
Legacy
Brand New Eyes has had a lasting impact on the music industry, with many considering it one of the best albums of the 2000s. The album’s influence can be seen in many modern rock and pop-punk bands, and its themes of self-discovery and empowerment continue to resonate with listeners today. In 2019, the album was re-released as a 10th-anniversary edition, featuring bonus tracks and a remix of the song “Ignorance”. The re-release served as a reminder of the album’s enduring legacy and its continued relevance in the music world.
What is the meaning behind the title “Brand New Eyes”?
+The title “Brand New Eyes” refers to the idea of seeing things from a fresh perspective. The band wanted to create an album that was true to themselves and reflected their growth and maturity as musicians.
Who produced the album “Brand New Eyes”?
+The album “Brand New Eyes” was produced by Rob Cavallo and Paramore.
What was the band’s goal when creating “Brand New Eyes”?
+The band’s goal was to create an album that was more experimental and pushed the boundaries of their previous work. They wanted to create an album that was true to themselves and reflected their growth and maturity as musicians.
