{$Yellowcard} makes its major-label debut with {^Ocean Avenue}. This SoCal {\punk-pop} fivesome slightly softens the edges found on its previous two albums in what is an attempt to win over the {#TRL} crowd. Regardless of the reasons why, {$Yellowcard} works with that familiar formula of spastic, crunchy guitar licks, {\emo}-inspired lyrics, and vocals tailored for that tinny, whiny effect. Some say it's been done before, and by 2003 it surely had, but {$Yellowcard} seems to not give a care about it because {^Ocean Avenue} delivers despite of its catchy recipe. The 13-song set switches in mood and tempo for a layered, dynamic sound, and vocalist {$Ryan Key} could very well chasten {$Dashboard Confessional}'s {$Christopher Carraba} about keeping things short and simple. Songs like {&"Way Away"} and {&"Empty Apartment"} thrive on the basics of {\rock & roll} -- foliated guitars weaved in between high-speed percussion. But that's not all. {$Yellowcard} has a secret component when it comes to crafting its own {\punk}-inspired presentation. Violinist {$Sean Mackin} is impressively skilled, and his talent allows {$Yellowcard} to have a bit of an advantage in making something sound original and fresh. {&"Believe"} and the acoustic guitars of {&"One Year, Six Months"} are proof of that. {^Ocean Avenue} isn't exactly outstanding in the sense that this band has done something outrageously different, but it is a worthy collection of songs with a real heart; that alone shows that {$Yellowcard} is on to something solid. ~ MacKenzie Wilson, All Music Guide