Yellowcard: 'When You're Through Thinking, Say Yes'

Yellowcard is a popular American alternative/punk rock band that has been around for years. According to MTV, the band is originally from Jacksonville, Florida, where they came together in 1997. A few years later, in 2000, they moved out to California where they have since released many well-known albums, such as Ocean Avenue, Lights and Sounds, and Paper Walls. Their most recent album, When You're Through Thinking, Say Yes, was released on March 22, 2011, and so far receives my vote as favorite album of 2011.

The Band's Sound:

Yellowcard has always had a fairly distinct sound, most likely because of the fact that one of their members plays the violin amongst the sound of guitars, drums, and bass. This sound has stayed fairly consistent throughout their time together, which also applies to their most recent release. When You're Through Thinking, Say Yeshas the same distinct quality, sound, and energy that their past albums have had. They still have a slower song here or there, but most of the songs still convey energy and an upbeat feeling to the listener.

Altogether, they've found a formula and style with their music that works for them, and they've continued to write interesting and compelling lyrics to accompany that style of music. Their newest album holds true to their sound and style, and that's one important reason why this album is my favorite of 2011.

No More Hiatus:

Yellowcard has had six albums prior to When You're Through Thinking, Say Yes, the last of which was released in 2007. According to the band's biography on MTV, 2008 was when Yellowcard went on indefinite hiatus. The band stayed quiet for a couple of years, with members mostly taking time off or working on other musical projects. It wasn't until later in 2010 that the band announced that they were coming back together to work on a new album.

For the most part, waiting for new music from a band can range dramatically, anywhere from one year to three years or more. Normally during that time, though, you can access information about how the process is coming along and how many songs they've written or recorded. When a band goes on indefinite hiatus, however, like Yellowcard did, you never know when or even if they will come out with new music. After around four years, the new music had finally arrived, and When You're Through Thinking, Say Yeswas definitely worth the wait.

Overall:

Overall, between the same quality style and the long anticipation for a new album, Yellowcard's When You're Through Thinking, Say Yestakes my vote for favorite album of the year so far. Making your audience wait a few years before giving them new music certainly makes them more appreciative of it when you return. This definitely helped Yellowcard's album take the favorite spot. That, and the fact that they haven't lost touch with their style of music or the ability to write amazing lyrics.

Sources:

Johnny Loftus, Yellowcard | Music Videos, News, Photos, Tour Dates, Ringtones, and Lyrics | MTV, MTV