Comebacks and expectations can be a tough thing to deal with. Yellowcard knows this all too well, disappearing after having great success and becoming just another band lost to obscurity — until now with “When You’re Through Thinking, Say Yes.” The recent hiatus didn’t affect the group at all, and its familiar sound comes flooding back with opening track “The Sound of You and Me.” It’s an ideal opener paced by aggressive guitar and drum work. Although Sean Mackin’s violin isn’t heard until midway through the track, it’s well worth the wait. The band slows down for a huge build-up, and a classic Yellowcard breakdown — foot-stomping guitar bursts over grandiose violin — carries the song out. The record continues with a string of captivating songs. “For You, and Your Denial” and “With You Around,” which has the album’s best hook, can easily be compared to the band’s “Ocean Avenue” days. “Hang You Up” is a heartfelt tune that is an excellent pathway into the best part of the record. “Life of Leaving Home,” “Hide” and “Soundtrack” are the three most impressive tracks. They seem to get stronger as each song progresses, and the instrumental intensity is at a high. Yellowcard’s chemistry and cohesion ultimately separates them from their peers and puts them at an elite level. To say this is the band’s best work would be a stretch, but that argument should be irrelevant. Yellowcard returned with something new and old fans can enjoy, perfecting a sound that is uniquely their own. This is the best record the band could make at this time; it highlights the group’s past records, and is a great lead-in to future releases. Rating: W W W W
