Hayley Williams – Petals For Armor (2020)

October 16, 2020

This is the debut solo release here from Hayley Williams of Paramore (despite other current members of Paramore actually having a part to play in the album at various points throughout). An unique and refreshing sound – and move away from Paramore – adapting a clever and dark sort of indie pop vibe. A fantastic selection of songs here, and a really tight bunch that fit perfectly together as an album and compliment each other well. This isn’t just a mismatched bunch of songs here, theres great mood, setting and flow to the album. I really enjoy this record personally, even if I wasn’t aware of her previous work I’d say I’d definitely enjoy this, and I think that would generally be the case too for people picking up on this who may otherwise be new to her as an artist.

Released during the height of mass lockdowns and a global pandemic, I feel Hayley also really utilised her platform well and really took control of the whole releasing an album during these times process; a series of videos, as well as live home performances and stripped down versions of songs from the record, and staying really fresh and relevant throughout with the entire albums release process.

When I first heard the track “Simmer” I was immediately captivated by it. It’s a refreshing, perfect sounding release with a great chorus, driving bass line, flow and great vocal hooks and delivery. “Leave It Alone” a slow and sad sounding slow groove number, and another showcasing track from the album.

“Cinnamon” builds and builds into this sort of almost dance like number, such groove and flow in both music and vocal, totally taking the track to different places within itself, possibly my favourite track on the album.

“Creepin'” is another highlight for many of the reasons I’ve mentioned there actually. Another album favourite for me is “Dead Horse” which if I’m allowed to say chorus wise at least actually reminds me a little of a sort of something No Doubt may do, and I’m not just comparing the next female fronted act I can think of, it just has that sort of style of sound going on.

Overall a great album, and perfectly picked bunch of songs that make up a really solid debut release and break away release for the artist. 10/10.