22 November 2023 – Brisbane Entertainment Centre – review by Luci Scott – pictures supplied Zachary Gray
Wednesday night marked the commencement of Paramore’s Australian tour with an electrifying sold-out performance at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre. It wasn’t just a concert; it was an extraordinary journey into the heart of their music.
To set the stage on fire, the immensely talented Remi Wolf opened the show. Her commanding stage presence and infectious energy created an atmosphere of pure joy. Even for those unfamiliar with her repertoire, it was impossible not to get caught up in the rhythm.
However, when the lights dimmed for Paramore, the anticipation reached a crescendo, and the entire entertainment centre erupted in cheers. The opening notes of ‘You First’ and ‘The News’ from their recent album set the tone, swiftly followed by the iconic ‘That’s What You Get’. The play of lights during this song was nothing short of mesmerizing, reminiscent of their captivating performance at the Riverstage in 2018.
Diving into their extensive catalogue, they treated the audience to gems like ‘Playing God’, followed by a dance-filled showcase of hits from the After Laughter album — ‘Caught in the Middle’ and Rose-Coloured Boy’, before moving onto ‘Running Out of Time’ which added another layer of fun with spirited dancing from both Hayley and the band.
The crowd reached a pinnacle of collective joy when Paramore delivered ‘Decode’ a song cherished by many. The sight of the entire entertainment centre singing along created a moment of shared euphoria. The atmosphere became even more enchanting during the soul-stirring performance of ‘Last Hope’ with the audience illuminating the venue with their flashlights.
Transitioning to newer songs like ‘Big Man, Little Dignity’, ‘Thick Skull’ and ‘Liar’ and the heartfelt ‘Crystal Clear’, Paramore showcased their versatility, weaving a tapestry of musical beauty. The dance vibes returned with a flurry as they pumped up the audience with ‘Hard Times’, followed by a series of energetic tunes — ‘Figure 8’, ‘Told You So’ and ‘Crave’.
The pinnacle of the night was the party anthem ‘Misery Business’, where they invited a lucky fan onstage, creating a moment of pure, unfiltered joy. ‘Ain’t It Fun’ kept the energy soaring, and just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, Paramore returned for an epic encore, delivering ‘Still Into You’ and ‘This Is Why’.
In the wake of a swift departure, Paramore left an indelible mark. This concert was not merely a performance; it was a night etched in memory. If the opportunity arises to catch them on tour, don’t hesitate. Paramore’s live experience is nothing short of magical, and this tour is a spectacle you won’t want to miss.
