Brand New Eyes cover

Brand New Eyes

Paramore

Album 2009

About this album

Sound: "A dynamic fusion of angst-fueled alternative rock and introspective pop melodies that navigate personal struggles."

Where they were

Released on September 25, 2009, 'Brand New Eyes' marked Paramore's third studio album and followed their commercial breakthrough with 'Riot!' in 2007. At this point, the band was solidifying their presence in the pop-rock landscape while grappling with internal tensions and lineup changes, particularly around the departure of bassist Jeremy Davis shortly before recording began.

Why it matters

The album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 and received positive reviews, with critics highlighting its lyrical depth and musical maturity. 'The Only Exception' became a significant hit, showcasing a softer side of the band that resonated widely, contributing to their role in shaping the emo-pop scene of the late 2000s.

Essential tracks

  • "The Only Exception" — This track encapsulates the album's emotional core, revealing vulnerability through its poignant lyrics and delicate instrumentation, contrasting with the album's more aggressive moments.
  • "Ignorance" — 'Ignorance' serves as a powerful opener that sets an intense tone for the album, showcasing Hayley Williams' raw vocal delivery and a driving rhythm that reflects themes of disillusionment.
  • "Brick by Boring Brick" — This track stands out with its narrative-driven lyrics and infectious chorus, offering a critique of escapism while blending whimsical elements with darker themes.
  • "Careful" — 'Careful' features intricate guitar work and introspective lyrics about navigating relationships and trust, making it a quintessential Paramore anthem that captures their signature sound.

Release Date

September 25, 2009

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

Disc 1

  1. 1 Careful 3:50
  2. 2 Ignorance 3:38
  3. 3 Playing God 3:02
  4. 4 Brick by Boring Brick 4:13
  5. 5 Turn It Off 4:19
  6. 6 The Only Exception 4:27
  7. 7 Feeling Sorry 3:05
  8. 8 Looking Up 3:29
  9. 9 Where the Lines Overlap 3:18
  10. 10 Misguided Ghosts 3:01
  11. 11 All I Wanted 3:49

Disc 2

  1. 1 Ignorance (acoustic) 3:40
  2. 2 Where the Lines Overlap (acoustic) 3:12

Disc 3

  1. 1 Making the Album (Documentary) 30:00
  2. 2 In Studio Footage
  3. 3 Interviews
  4. 4 Paramore.Net Episodes
  5. 5 (Cocky) Basketball
  6. 6 Ping Pong
  7. 7 Cribz, Part 1
  8. 8 Cribz, Part 2
  9. 9 Zac and Kevin
  10. 10 Z and T Presents "Baby Come Back 2 Me"
  11. 11 Photo Gallery (Exclusive in studio)