Music Existence Because of Music, We Exist
Yellowcard’s self-titled final album is unequivocally just that—a final album. From its heartfelt lyrics thanking fans for their dedication, to its tendency to linger on the final notes of every song, this is an album that says goodbye.
It feels perfected and put together, as if they have ensured this latest release is exactly what they want it to be. Every song is refined, each having its own unique structure and feel.
The first song, “Rest in Peace,” sets the record’s tone. It sounds almost like the beginning of a eulogy for the band’s 20-year career. This reflective song looks back on their achievements and wonders what the future could hold after their demise.
Stand out tracks for me include the single “The Hurt is Gone,” which is the song I would choose to best represent the entire album. Its positivity about the future is juxtaposed with the difficulties of accepting change. It sends a strong message to fans, that everything will eventually be alright, and that time can heal any pain.
“A Place We Set Afire” is equally beautiful. Similar to “The Hurt is Gone,” it looks forward to new opportunities, while breaking out of the confines of the past.
“Savior’s Robes,” however, offers something completely different to the rest of the record. This song is almost angry, and seems to be directed at anyone who wouldn’t let the band move on from their old material. “Play us a song I know, make it an older one.” While seeing Yellowcard perform Ocean Avenue in its entirety at Slam Dunk Festival earlier this year, they said how exciting it was to be able to play arguably their best-known song so early in their set to get it out of the way.
The final track, “Fields and Fences,” ends Yellowcard almost perfectly. It incorporates iconic elements of their musical style. The violin is mournful, but not depressing. It’s a long song, not quite cracking the seven minute mark, but every second is devoted to the final farewell to their fans. The message is clear; Yellowcard are at home playing music onstage for their fans, and this is their way of thanking them for letting them play together for so long. The song almost doesn’t seem to want to end, as with it ends their last collaboration as a band. The outro is slow and drawn out, but not excessive, as if it already fading into memory.
Fans will get to hear these songs for the first and final time on Yellowcard’s upcoming world tour, which kicks off this month. Their final offering should work well in the context of their final shows, as it strikes the balance between looking back on their successes as a band, and looking forward to a life after Yellowcard. It’s a worthy final record, and one I hope leaves fans satisfied.
