Yellowcard's Ryan Key Talks "Ocean Avenue", Summer Tour, & More
With the resurgence marked by last year's "Childhood Eyes" EP and a massive U.S. tour, Yellowcard has proven they are far from fading into the annals of pop-punk history. Their latest collaboration, "A Hopeful Sign," with neoclassical/post-rock ambient artist Hammock, further cements their innovative spirit. As they prepare for an even bigger tour this summer with Third Eye Blind, Yellowcard's momentum is undeniable. We had the chance to sit down with frontman Ryan Key to discuss their latest projects and the band's enduring legacy.
"A Hopeful Sign" is not just another album; it’s a bold reimagining of Yellowcard's most beloved songs. Collaborating remotely, Ryan Key and Hammock transformed tracks like "Southern Air," "Only One," "Telescope," and the iconic "Ocean Avenue" into something entirely new. Key re-recorded the piano and vocals in his home studio, embracing a softer, more ambient style. Hammock then took these recordings and altered the chord progressions, creating a cinematic and atmospheric reinterpretation.
“These aren’t just remixes,” Key emphasized. “We wanted to dive deep into the essence of what made the original songs memorable and twist them into new and fascinating shapes. It’s been an amazing experience to see how our music can transform.”
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Yellowcard’s seminal album "Ocean Avenue." Reflecting on the journey, Key shared, “It's surreal to think it’s been two decades. 'Ocean Avenue' was a turning point for us, and it's incredible to see it still resonates with fans today.”
The band's upcoming tour with Third Eye Blind and ARIZONA is set to hit even larger venues, promising a nostalgic yet fresh experience for fans old and new. “We’re excited to bring the energy of 'Ocean Avenue' back to the stage,” Key said. “It's going to be a celebration of our past, but also a showcase of how far we’ve come.”
As Yellowcard gears up for their summer tour, their excitement is palpable. The band’s chemistry on stage is stronger than ever, promising an unforgettable experience for concertgoers. “We’re ready to bring our best,” Key said. “The energy, the connection with the fans, it’s all going to be there.”
This summer, Yellowcard will be hitting the road with Third Eye Blind and ARIZONA. Fans can expect a dynamic setlist that spans their extensive catalog, infused with the fresh energy of their recent projects.
June 8 - Airway Heights, WA at BECU Live at Northern Quest
June 9 - Nampa, ID at Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater
June 13 - Seattle, WA at WAMU Theater
June 14 - Bend, OR at Hayden Homes Amphitheater
June 15 - Mountain View, CA at Shoreline Amphitheatre
June 20 - Los Angeles, CA at Greek Theatre
June 21 - Chula Vista, CA at North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre
June 22 - Las Vegas, NV at Fontainebleau Las Vegas
June 25 - West Valley City, UT at USANA Amphitheatre
June 26 - Morrison, CO at Red Rocks Amphitheatre
June 28 - Chicago, IL at Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island
June 29 - St. Louis, MO at Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre - St. Louis
June 30 - Franklin, TN at FirstBank Amphitheater
July 2 - Cincinnati, OH at Riverbend Music Center
July 3 - Buffalo, NY at Darien Lake Amphitheater
July 5 - Cuyahoga Falls, OH at Blossom Music Center
July 6 - Noblesville, IN at Ruoff Music Center
July 7 - Clarkston, MI at Pine Knob Music Theatre
July 9 - Burgettstown, PA at The Pavilion at Star Lake
July 11 - Gilford, NH at BankNH Pavilion
July 12 - Camden, NJ at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion
July 13 - Mansfield, MA at Xfinity Center
July 14 - Holmdel, NJ at PNC Bank Arts Center
July 16 - Saratoga Springs, NY at Broadview Stage at SPAC
July 18 - Wantagh, NY at Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater
July 19 - Columbia, MD at Merriweather Post Pavilion
July 20 - Virginia Beach, VA at Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater
July 21 - Raleigh, NC at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
July 23 - Charlotte, NC at PNC Music Pavilion
July 25 - Tampa, FL at MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
July 26 - Jacksonville, FL at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena
July 27 - Alpharetta, GA at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
July 28 - Birmingham, AL at Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
July 31 - Rogers, AR at Walmart AMP
August 1 - Dallas, TX at Dos Equis Pavilion
August 2 - Austin, TX at Germania Insurance Amphitheater
August 3 - Houston, TX at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
With a renewed vigor and a slate of exciting projects, Yellowcard is poised to reclaim their place in the hearts of fans worldwide. "A Hopeful Sign" showcases their ability to evolve and innovate, while their upcoming tour promises to be a celebration of their enduring legacy. As they prepare to hit the road, one thing is clear: Yellowcard's journey is far from over, and the best is yet to come.
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