Paramore’s sound has definitely developed over the years and I believe Hayley has grown to embrace her role as a performer, defying stereotyped ideas of female singers. The new album is especially significant since it marks the band’s return without founding members Josh and Zac Farro. The departure of band mates can be tough as the remaining band members are forced to reevaluate the band. Should it go on, end, or be reborn as something completely different?

It seems like this new incarnation of Paramore has chosen to stay true to its roots while striking off in more daring directions. This is not surprising though considering the band has been known for taking risks in the past. Josh Farro had been one of the main sources for Paramore’s material so the song writing has been shaken up in a good way. The new album includes an amazing 17 tracks of new material that references everything from the band’s split to old songs that fans will recognize. Hayley Williams continues to take the lead with her complex vocals that can uplift and enrage depending on her mood at the time. Personally, I love the range she has and it is refreshing to hear rock songs that do give equal weight to the vocals and instruments.

The band is on tour for the summer so it will be interesting to see how fans react to the new material. Already sold out crowds have been wowed by Paramore’s new set. Glad to see a band from my adolescence is still alive and kicking and stronger after a split.

When asked about the Noisettes Shingai added,”We’re two divas with different record collections who constantly introduce each other to new sounds, whether it’s African music, jazz, our own modern hybrid of soul music or new adventures in dance music, there always remains the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll without the clichés. For us, making music means keeping our ears open.”

Who are the Noisettes?

The Noisettes make music that you can dance to, sing to, work to, and live to. I actually cleaned my kitchen today while listening to songs off their new album Contact. Bassist Shingai and guitarist Dan make a dynamic duo, playing off each other with ease on and off the stage.

Who are An Horse?

Switching gears, I lucked into an An Horse show a couple years back when a friend from out of town visited and needed to stay busy. The show seemed interesting enough, a cute lady guitarist and drummer boy seemed like an interesting change of pace. This Brisbane couple brought a world of sound and have been on fire since their introduction to America.

I was lucky enough to see them as the main act but they’ve also had the pleasure of opening for big names like Tegan and Sara and indie rock band Death Cab for Cutie. The 2009 album Rearrange Beds is a favorite of mine.

Who are Robots in Disguise?

Last but not least, Britain’s Robots in Disguise or RiD. These two rock queens, Sue Denim and Dee Plume, have kept me on my toes since the early 2000s. Their riotous lyrics and sometimes taboo songs (sometimes featuring robots) are not for the faint of heart but I adore them. What makes this group so unique is their lack of reliance on traditional instruments, instead choosing to go with electric vibes.

If their faces look familiar it is probably because the pair appeared several times on the hit British television show, The Mighty Boosh. Despite crossing over into television, Robots in Disguise have based themselves firmly in the world of rock and roll.

I can’t help but love these power couples in the rock music world and will keep looking out for more duos that take the cake.

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-doe

But how did the name Little Dragon come about?

The band name was inspired by the temper tantrums Nagano would throw in the studio during the band’s early years. Her passion for the music created memorable moments while recording but that hasn’t stopped her or her bandmates from creating memorable songs.

Since their debut in 1996, the Swedish band Little Dragon has released three studio albums entitled Little Dragon (2007), Machine Dreams (2009), and Ritual Union (2011). Their continuous use of electronic sounds mixed with live instruments keeps their music fresh and different from the crowd.

Fans of Little Dragon come from all walks of life and their music bridges the gap between the new school and school sound.

“But you need to listen to it if only because rarely do young bands step forward so quickly with something this majestic and memorable and modern. Little Dragon’s evolution will be fun to listen to. Maybe even more than Prince’s next three albums.” - ESQUIRE

I’ve already added the “Feather” Fromwood remix and “Ritual Union” to my winter playlists. Both of these songs warm the soul while allowing my mind to chill out. These are the sounds that are perfect for a cold winter night.

“…Richly textured and highly vibe-y electronic music that could soundtrack both the dance party (“Night Light,” “Little Man”) and the chill-out room (“Crystalfilm,” “When I Go Out”). - RollingStone.com

The introduction of Little Dragon into the US has been a breath of fresh air for the music scene that has become cluttered with solo acts churning out one pop hit after another. The sounds of Little Dragon are solid and authentic; Nagano’s vocals are rich because they are not because of effects. I’m hoping they will be able to tour once the weather warms up. 2013 is looking to be another exciting year of music.

“Little Dragon makes pop music for folks who think they hate pop music” - NPR

Thanks NPR for this little gem of a statement.

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-doe