REVIEW: Paramore, LG Arena Birmingham, 23/09/2013

   Three years on and the Tennessee Trio return to Birmingham on their sixteen date European tour.

  The last time Paramore graced the LG Arena's stage was November 2010 as a five piece. Tonight, you wouldn't even realise they'd been away. Opening with the energetic 'Grow Up', the band have the entire audience moving before the first chorus; the choice of intro song seems very apt as it's clear to everyone how far the band have come since Brand New Eyes. 

   Front woman Hayley Williams soon takes to the front of the stage and begins a chant which the audience gladly repeat back, soon to turn into the familiar 'whoa' in 'That's What You Get'. Although the touring members remain planted towards the back of the stage, Jeremy Davis (bass) and Taylor York (lead guitar) waste no time in making use of the space, bouncing from end to end. It's clear the whole band is enjoying themselves, a feeling taken in by the crowd as they jump up and down to the beat.

   Despite the constant movement, there's never a wrong note sung; Williams hits every high perfectly. There's also no lack of audience participation - the whole band are thoroughly engaging, and every time the yellow mic is turned in the crowd's direction the reaction is deafening. Halfway through the set, a keyboard is placed center stage as the band break into 'When It Rains' (probably a welcome sit down for Williams, who looks just as sweaty as those in the center of the pit). All three look equally overwhelmed to hear 'Last Hope' being sung back to them, the meaning of which Williams made in a speech before starting the song. 

   As they move through their 21 song set, Davis and York seem to only gain in energy, putting their all into the performance. Following 'Ain't It Fun', Davis goes into a solo, showing his competence as a bassist that may have previously been overlooked. Later during 'Pressure' - an old favourite and the only song on the set from first album All We Know is Falling - all eyes are on Davis and York as they set up for the very well-known 'pressure flip' among fans which they pull off effortlessly, much to the delight of the crowd. 

   Like all their shows, just before hitting the bridge of crowd-pleaser 'Misery Business', the band go into an extended instrumental whereby Williams picks one thrilled looking audience member to take to the stage and sing the bridge. Though the jealousy of those not picked is evident, the goodwill of the fans wins out and the girl chosen today is greeted by cheers and chants as she and Williams complete the song. 
   
   At the end of the song the band leave the stage, and it's only when chants of 'paramore' are at their height do they return for a three song encore. They close the show with recent chart hit 'Still Into You', which is accompanied by a large flurry of orange confetti raining down on a cheering and very pleased audience.

   It's clear Paramore have come a long way in three years. The absence of the Farro brothers seemed barely noticeable as the remaining members filled whatever hole they left both in the band and for the fans. A thoroughly enjoyable, energetic show which left everyone with a smile on their face.

The Insanity Workout

   Well, after 63 long days, I have finally completed the Insanity workout! Month two, as expected, was much harder than month one - the workouts are longer and more taxing with fewer scheduled breaks. Compared to month two, month one was an absolute breeze!

   As far as the overall programme goes, it is a difficult workout. Personally I would not recommend it if your current exercise regime consists of nothing because the sheer intensity of each workout is a real shock to the system. Shaun T reverses the usual method of exercise; so rather than doing gentle exercise which spikes for a minute, you do hard exercise with a minute break (which entails stopping completely to allow your heart rate to lower).

   Personally, now that I've completed the entire 63 days, I can say that it really has made such a difference. I don't feel nearly as tired as I used to, my legs are much stronger and my flexibility has improved. I was able to complete a 12 mile bike ride two days ago (albeit mostly on level ground) and not feel the usual aches and pains the next day like I would have had I not done been on the insanity programme. Also, as I mentioned in my previous half-review, the programme was good for me because I could complete it at home and can go back to certain exercises now whenever I feel it necessary. 

   Overall, I would recommend this workout, especially if you have the time and motivation to stick at it. Sometimes, for me, it did take a lot of self motivation to keep at it every day but I am incredibly glad I did. Although I didn't use the results and recovery formula or stick to the nutrition guide provided, it still made a difference.


Fit test results: Days 1 and 63
Switch Kicks

• First test: 40
• Final test: 60

Power Jacks

• First test: 34
• Final test: 62

Power Knees

• First test: 60
• Final test: 105

Power Jumps

• First test: 15
• Final test: 45

Globe Jumps

• First test: 6
• Final test: 10

Suicide Jumps

• First test: 10
• Final test: 15

Push-up Jacks

• First test: 6
• Final test: 25

Low Plank Oblique 

• First test: 14
• Final test: 50

Reasons to read the Night Angel Trilogy

   Recently, I was given a large selection of kindle books. After finishing the Mortal Instruments books, I decided to select a new book to read at random. I noticed the Night Angel trilogy by Brent Weeks (an author whom I'd previously not heard of) and soon started it. Now that I've finished three books I thoroughly enjoyed, I feel (mostly) able to compile reasons to read them without exposing the plot. Hopefully.

   Firstly, Weeks has created an entirely new world. As an amateur student writer, I understand how difficult it is to create and write an entirely new world different from the one which people already know. However, Weeks has created a solid new world which incorporates the idea of magic without sounding childish or vague. There are differing 'levels' of magic within the novels, something the inhabitants of his world are all aware of, yet not everyone is magical. Furthermore, the story is set on the continent of Midcyru, which is split into various countries (although the main focus is on Cenaria). Some versions of the novels include a small map, showing the level of thought and consideration that has gone into creating this world. 

   Weeks is clearly an excellent writer, in my opinion. As mentioned before, the novels contain magic that doesn't come across as childish or just another witch/wizard novel. Therefore, adults can also enjoy these novels. Each character develops throughout the trilogy, especially evident in Kylar who is the main focus throughout. Weeks' characters are not by any means unbelievable or overly perfect - most have been brought up in a corrupt society, and the reader can see how such corruption has affected them. In addition, each country within Midcyru has different religions and it also clear how this impacts on characters.

   Throughout all three novels, Weeks maintains a strong plot line which progresses and twists occasionally. He also writes the novels from different character's perspectives (in third person narrative) so the reader can see how each character's story progresses at any given time, and how they tie in together. The main characters stories all seem to connect with each other, which gradually becomes more evident throughout; one chapter the reader is with Kylar, the next with Dorian, and in the next their two stories collide.

   Without giving too much away, the novels are fantastic and allow the reader to make connections with each of the characters and become fully immersed in the story. My opinion? They're well worth a read.

Half Review: The Insanity Workout

   Around 5 weeks ago, my sister received a package in the post. Before I know it, she's waving a box with 'insanity' written down the side proclaiming that 'we start monday'. I have now completed week 4 of this workout, and so I'm going to give it a halfway review in case anyone is considering getting it. 

   So, day 1 is a fit test - you complete fit tests every 2 weeks, in order to track progress, and complete a final one on the last day of the program. So far, I've completed 2 fit tests and after just 2 weeks following the program day by day I actually improved. Now, a lot of people asked me why I was bothering with a workout like insanity; I'm fairly small and have no desire to lose weight. However, I believe this workout is good for anyone whether you want to lose weight or just increase fitness levels and tone up. With daily stretching it even increases flexibility (or, it has done for me).

   Obviously, as the warnings express and the name suggests, this particular program is hard. The workouts can get really intense and unless you're motivated to stick at it, I can see that some may find it easier to just give up. My advice? Keep at it. Just 4 weeks on and I feel so much better in myself. Some might argue that it's expensive, but so is the gym, and you can't do that in the comfort of your own home! 

   Now, I'm not saying I can see the whole 40 minutes through without taking an unscheduled break here and there, but insanity is definitely working for me (despite not following the nutrition guide provided or drinking 'recovery' formula). If you want something quick you can do at home, I'd recommend this workout. The important thing is to keep pushing yourself through it - it'll start to get easier after week 1!


My fit test results:
Switch Kicks -- FT1: 40 -- FT2: 45
Power Jacks -- FT1: 34 -- FT2: 44
Power Knees -- FT1: 60 -- FT2: 80
Power Jumps -- FT1: 15 -- FT2: 25
Globe Jumps -- FT1: 6 -- FT2: 8
Suicide Jumps -- FT1: 10 -- FT2: 15
Push-up Jacks -- FT1: 6 -- FT2: 12
Low Plank Oblique -- FT1: 14 -- FT2: 25

The 'new' Paramore

   Since the release of their self-titled album last month, there has been a very mixed reception towards the so-called 'new' Paramore in both sound and lineup. The album itself was different from their last 3; it had a more pop-rock sound than the alternative sound fans had grown accustomed to, intermixed with small ukulele interludes. 

   In all honesty, this change in sound was to be expected. The band has undergone a lot of changes since the departure of the Farro's in 2010 (and I don't just mean Hayley's hair colour), so it was only right that their sound progressed with them. The interludes appear to be the only songs on the album that address their departure, and other than those the rest seem to be what Paramore have moved on to. Paramore is a catchy, well-written album that shows how the band have grown and changed. Let's face it, they're not 17 any more and anyone shocked at the direction they've taken is wrongly so. Mildly surprised, yes, but no-one should have expected another Brand New Eyes. Their music has moved on, and it's up to fans to move with them.

   As for the line-up, it seems they're not taking on any permanent members which is understandable. Instead they keep a number of touring members to fill in the loss of the other two members. Change is good, but it gets to a stage where it can be potentially too much. Having said this, I for one sincerely hope they do eventually keep Justin York (older brother of Paramore guitarist Taylor York, for anyone who hasn't made that connection). I feel this especially when I watch acoustic videos - his and Hayley's voices go perfectly together and neither sound off in comparison to the other. 

   For now though, Paramore is what it is: a band coming back even stronger after the loss of members which could have caused them to split for good. Give their new sound a chance - you might just find that, like many of us, you actually like it.

REVIEW: Walk the Moon, Temple - HMV Institute, 26/02/2013

   Face-paint fuelled show as Ohio indie rockers embark on their headline UK tour and hit up Birmingham.

   Following a rather positive reception from supporting fun. back in October last year, and the overall positive reception towards their self titled album, Walk the Moon showed they're far more than a support band at their sold out show in the Temple putting the quartet firmly on the musical map.

   Using the album's first track, Quesadilla, to open the show, Walk The Moon certainly began on an energetic note moving smoothly into Next in Line. Though mostly younger teens, there was never a still moment in the crowd - even slower number, Iscariot, invoked a synchronised swaying.

   The band also played one of their older songs, Me and All My Friends, which the crowd were only too happy to join in with, screaming 'come on over now' much to the band's joy. Further proving a strong, ever growing fan base was the audience participation with Tightrope - never has that venue seen so many raised jazz hands.

   The band ended on a seemingly unexpected encore, covering Bowie classic 'Let's Dance', a track enjoyed by all ages, including the parents that were accompanying their underaged children. Needless to say, if they didn't arrive as fans, they certainly left as them.

   After what can only be described as a buzzing gig, the only hope left for Walk the Moon is that their fan base continues growing and stays as strong as it already has become. Oh, and that they keep producing fantastic music that you can't help but dance to.



**Quick not - I thought this posted 2 months ago, but it only saved to drafts!!! Sorry for the HUGE delay - I'll double check next time!**

Thoughts On A Journey Home

28th February, 19:25 London Midland service to Hereford

   I, like many other people who attend uni, need to get the train back to my home-town for weekend visits and the like. Now, compared to others, my one hour twenty journey seems like it should be a relatively uneventful trip, but on a train that's almost always full regardless of the time of day I find I still have stories to tell - from a girl with a budgie to the ticket woman who liked to lie across the tables because she thinks no-one can see her.

   Mostly, although I'm not particularly fond of public transport, my journeys are perfectly normal; people get off, people get on, not a lot happens. However I still cannot escape a few pet peeves. For example (and I think a lot of people can sympathise) there's always those annoying people that sit in the isle seat seemingly reserving the seat beside them with a jacket or, I once saw, a newspaper. Now I understand that your jacket needs somewhere to sit, but really? There are overhead shelves for that. And there's no need to roll your eyes at me when I ask to sit in the blatantly unoccupied seat (that is, unoccupied by any human). We'd all rather sit alone, but I'm afraid sometimes that's just not possible. 

   My next pet peeve on trains is mobile phones. I know, the majority of us own them, but there's always one person, in my experience, who just shouldn't be allowed one on a train. Like my journey now, for instance; if I hear the samsung message tone one more time I think there's a good chance I might throw their phone onto the tracks. Yes, whatever you're texting about may be important, but all phones have a silent function. Please learn to use it.

   Furthering my dislike of noisy phone users would be the bearded man currently sat in my eyeline. After his dire ringtone invaded everyone's ears, he then proceeded to answer with 'where have you been? It doesn't take a fucking hour to get home'. Delightful way to answer indeed. It was then revealed, between more swearing and angry sighing, that he only knew the caller was safe because they were online on facebook. Oh the wonders of social networking will never cease. I think the people sat near him, and the caller, were very glad when we entered a tunnel.

   I know, my journey could be worse, and now I'm pretty much alone in a carriage, but these little things are sent to try us. Or certainly my patience.