After scattered hits from their first three studio albums together, Yellowcard decided to go on a hiatus in early 2008, to give band members time to figure out their lives. They assured fans that they would not dissolve the band. Over two years later, the band announced that they were working on a new album. They gained inspiration from various side projects that members took place in, and created When You’re Through Thinking, Say Yes.
After all of the things that the band went through in recent years, part of my mind was expecting a new style that reflected their changes. I knew the band stayed true when I heard the heavy violin use and catchy pop punk melodies through the first few tracks. Much like their popular hit off of their first album with Capitol Records, Ocean Avenue, many of the tracks featured on this album have characteristic fast-paced drums, violin-driven melodies and the band’s trademark vocals, especially on “Hide” and “Life Of Leaving Home.”
Being a fan of this band, I found this album to be very typical of their past sounds and style. I wasn’t too surprised or impressed with any new elements, but I found comfort in the classic style of their former albums. The simple melodies, although complimented by the skill of violinist Sean Mackin, could be more in-depth. Yellowcard makes albums that fans will love, but I think taking chances is a good thing. They could do much more with the talent that they have.
In A Word: Predictable
