Date: November 24, 2007
Location: The Palladium - Worcester, MA
Bands: Paramore, The Starting Line, The Almost

New England’s trademark cold weather didn’t stop legions of fans eager for a glimpse of their favorite teenage rockstars from lining up as early as 9 AM outside The Palladium in Worcester, MA.

Despite the chill, the venue was packed – and for good reason: the show sold out weeks in advance. The Almost kicked off the night, heading out for the second time in support of Paramore, one of Fueled By Ramen’s brightest stars. Their brand of screamo-pop, along with their radio hit “Say This Sooner” and an interesting rendition of “Amazing Grace” set the tone for the night. The Starting Line took to the stage next, tying together songs off all three of their albums which tell the story of the progression from youthful pop-punkers to more mature (and in some cases, married) pop-rockers. Their energetic set closed with the beloved “Best of Me” off 2002’s Say It Like You Mean It.

Then, it was time for Paramore to take to the stage, amidst a custom light set and flashy video backdrop that displayed a selection of video clips and still images - a far cry from the group of teenagers that once entered the stage wearing t-shirts and jeans, ready to rock out. Vocalist Hayley Williams sported her trademark extravagant makeup and powerful pipes that have helped launch this band to stardom. With a set list including almost every track off the unexpected smash CD “Riot!” and a handful off the previous release “All We Know Is Falling” there were still a few surprise twists. The band launched into a successful cover of Sunny Day Real Estate’s “Faces in Disguise”, though the band appeared to be the only ones in the venue who knew the words. Before finishing the set out with “Misery Business”, Paramore treated fans to a performance of the unreleased “Decoy,” which was released as a bonus track accompanying "Riot!" Even though the energy was all there, one distinct thing was missing – passion. Guitarist Josh Farro remained largely stoic throughout the performance, flashing a smile once or twice at familiar faces. Williams interaction with the crowd, formerly a staple of this band's performance, was minimal at best as she remained steady behind the mic stand or seated behind a keyboard - nothing like the young woman who, even as recently as this summer's Warped Tour, spent most of her time on the very edge of the stage, hanging over her adoring fans, grinning and waving. All of it raises the question of whether or not the sharp ascent to fame has left this group of teenagers and twenty-somethings disillusioned with their craft or whether homesickness is finally taking its toll.