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THE REVIEW
Defining Yellowcard as Blink 182 with a violin means precisely: "I don't give a damn about pop-punk, it's a genre for teenagers, I just mentioned the first name that came to mind but in reality, I only listened to this album once in passing."
Starting from the assumption that Yellowcard share only the palm-mute with Blink, I'll proceed with the album review.
So, Yellowcard return in 2007 with "Paper Walls" after the failure received by "Lights and Sounds" from 2006 (which is not as bad as many have hastily said), returning to the style more suited to them, namely that of "Ocean Avenue".
The CD opens greatly with "The Takedown", followed by "Fighting" and "Shrink The World"... no sign of self-destruction, but just a great desire to redeem themselves and show that the violin hasn't disappeared in their song composition. Then come "Keeper" and "Light Up the Sky", the latter truly a poem. The ballad "Shadows And Regrets" is nice but certainly much more electrifying are the following "Five Become Four" and "Afraid". The CD continues quickly with "Date Line (I am Gone)" "Dear Bobbie" and "You And Me and One Spotlight". Great, as closing songs, "Cut me, Mick" and "Paper Walls" where a choir sings some parts with Ryan Key (the singer of Yellowcard).
It's truly pleasant to hear how each instrument plays a fundamental role in the songs and how the two guitars can harmonize well with this relentless violin. Every single song could be, thanks to its always quite catchy chorus, a possible hit and in none of them, there's something that seems random, but everything follows a precise order and great work.
In short, a quick, decisive album that certainly doesn't bore. Personally better than "Ocean Avenue" (except for some songs like "Empty Apartment" which is truly unbeatable).
The lyrics are nothing extraordinary, yet they remain credible and enjoyable. It would be an album rated 3.5, but since I'm a big fan of theirs, I'll give them a 4.
P.S. To all those who keep insisting that Yellowcard are like Blink 182 with a violin, I suggest checking out some guitar or bass tablature of both, and you'll see the difference.
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Summary by Bot
Yellowcard's 2007 album Paper Walls marks a confident return to their signature pop-punk style with violin-driven songs. The album highlights catchy choruses and well-crafted compositions, overcoming the middling reception of their previous record. Standout tracks like 'The Takedown' and 'Light Up the Sky' showcase the band's energy and musical redemption. Although lyrics aren't groundbreaking, they remain credible and enjoyable. The review favors this album slightly over Ocean Avenue.Tracklist Lyrics Videos
Yellowcard
Yellowcard are an American pop-punk/alternative rock band formed in Jacksonville, Florida, known for integrating Sean Mackin’s violin into high-energy songs. They broke through with Ocean Avenue (2003), disbanded in 2017, reunited in 2022, and continue to perform and release music.10 Reviews
Other reviews
By Taurus
The positive aspect of the album is certainly varying the sounds from the classic milky pieces stained with dark flakes of coffee (pop-punk) transitioning to slower and more melodic pieces with pop-rock sounds.
To be listened to only if you are a fan of the band or if you want to listen to a record without many expectations and pretensions.
