{^Where We Stand} reappears in 2004 via {@Takeover} as a reissue of {$Yellowcard}'s 1999 sophomore effort, in the wake of the Florida combo's major-label debut, {^Ocean Avenue}. The sound here is a respectable sketch of what would come; while vocalist {$Ryan Key} had yet to join up, original frontman {$Ben Dobson} doesn't really sound that much different, and his harmonies with {$Todd Clary} are pretty impressive. There's a heavy {$Offspring} influence here, along with some {$Green Day} and {$311}; the latter group's influence can be heard most on tracks like {&"Lesson Learned"} and {&"Time Will Tell,"} where {$Sean Wellman}'s violin adds a dynamic instrumental layer to the usual {\pop}-{\punk} power chords and rapid rhythmic pace. {&"Kids"} is another highlight, with its cross of {\hardcore} aggression and cool {\heavy metal} changes, while {&"Sorry Try Again"} keeps {\thrash} in the picture. Fidelity is a bit of an issue here, especially if fans are comparing it to {^Ocean Avenue}, which was mixed top-shelf style by {$Tom Lord-Alge}. But {^Where We Stand} is still an interesting look at {$Yellowcard}'s formative past for listeners made curious by the {@Capitol} release. ~ Johnny Loftus, All Music Guide