I've always quite liked Yellowcard without ever really getting the hype that surrounded them. Sure, their violin-tinted brand of pop-punk is reasonably original, but I just didn't think they were that outstanding. That was of course until 'Ocean Avenue' landed on my doormat - not only is this a great record but I re-discovered 'One For The Kids' and fell in love with it again. There not the Jesus on a stick band portrayed by some websites, but Yellowcard are refreshingly different; strong, melodic pop-punk anthems which stand out in a sea of dull emo drivel.
'Ocean Avenue' carries on where 'One For The Kids' left off. Now on a major label, the progression is there for all to see - the production is slicker, the sound a bit beefier and there are less filler tracks. There probably isn't a 'Sureshot' or 'Starstruck' on here, but over 13 songs there isn't a bad one. 'Way Away' is a rip-roaring start, as drums, violin and guitar cascade all over the shop. Ryan Key has a strong, distinctive vocal and his knack for writing a strong hook is apparent throughout, none more so when the choruses are huge and the verses drive. The guitars sound wonderfully think without being overpowering and Sean Mackin's violin is never over-used. A sombre instrument, it adds a realism and texture that many bands of their ilk lack.
I love the sound of the crunch in the guitars during 'Breathing', which has as perfect a chorus as you will find, while 'Ocean Avenue' itself will have crowds singing along in the live department. OK, so the subject matter is hardly new or genre-breaking, but this is just fun stuff done really well. There are no attempts to be too clever and of course the lyrical matter is what the majority of listeners can associate with. 'Life Of A Salesman' comes off as a brave attempt at tackling a tough subject matter (and the song itself is great), while 'Miles Apart' has the typical Yellowcard strength in sound - it's great all across the board. Just when you think the choruses cannot get any catchier 'Twentythree' pops along which is probably an air drummers heaven, but it's the slower 'View From Heaven' which shows an altogether more mature side. The use of feamle backing vocals soothes and adds a layer previously not shown and the violin adds a further dimension. If you needed one example of the progression Yellowcard have made, this is it. Chuck in quality songs like 'Believe' and 'One Year, Six Months' and you have one very impressive record.
'Ocean Avenue' is not the album of the year but it's certainly in the top 10. Having said that Yellowcard have released possibly the best pop-punk record of the year. It's happy, fun and the perfect summer record. If you're in need of a pick-me-up to escape the winter blues, you could do a lot worse than giving this little beauty a whirl.
www.yellowcard.com
Capitol Records
Paul
