Paramore have returned with the second taste of what is to come off their brand new sixth studio album, due out for release in February, with “The News” – a daunting, and downright, gruesome offering that showcases Hayley’s front-and-centre glimpses into some of Paramore’s favourite horror movies.
Furthermore, the title alone kind of gives away what the entire song is about, as “The News” puts continues to show the dynamic chemistry between drummer Zac Farro and guitarist Taylor York backing Hayley’s lyricism, as the trio – hardly need further praise from me – explore the feelings of helplessness and anxiety that come with a desire to stay informed and engaged with current events, coupled with the emotional toll of being overwhelmed by the 24-hour news cycle.
Speaking on the release of the single, Hayley says that this [The News] is one of those songs that came together pretty quickly and felt exciting from the start.
“It feels like a happy medium between classic Paramore angst and bringing in some influences we’ve always had but never exploited,” Hayley says. “Watching Zac track drums for this one was one of my favorite memories from the studio. Lyrically, it probably explains itself. The 24-hr news cycle is just impossible to comprehend. And I feel a pang of guilt when I unplug to protect my headspace. The common reaction, or non-reaction, seems to be dissociation. Not one of us is innocent of that and who could blame us?”