Single Review: Childhood Eyes - Yellowcard - May 31, 2023 Release

I had waited and waited for anything new music related from the iconic rock band Yellowcard and they delivered a massive single announcement with Childhood Eyes released on May 31, 2023 and what a way to end the month. The single boasts of viewing life in your late 30’s and 40’s through the lens of nostalgia and relishing in a quieter life now that one has gone and lived through wild adventures, life’s constant ebbs and flows, and so much heartache than someone could even fathom. In true Yellowcard fashion, they referenced themes and tropes of past albums and videos like Lights and Sounds and Ocean Avenue. The video also has a massive Goonies vibe and the kids employed to torture the band with nostalgic mementos from days past did a wonderful job at making sure that they felt the emotions. (Also I would not want to sit through someone dumping buckets of water on my head.) But it made me, a 37-year old fan of this band, as emotional as I was when I had first saw them in concert in Utah back in 2004. And for the last time in Anaheim, CA in 2017 on March 25th. If they wanted to deliver gut punches of the emo variety, they succeeded. I felt it. I may have even cried a few tears of joy. 

If this single is any indication of the full release on Equal Vision Records set for July 7, 2023. We are in for a massive summer treat. This is a band whose influence has spanned the test of time and the legacy they left paved the way for newer bands to follow an unconventional route. One where a AAPI violinist can take center stage as a shining star. One where they talk about loss, the hard truths of fame and glory, and wanting to just settle down and make it home. This band championed a lot of highs and lows for a lot of fans, myself included, and it is so cool to see friends become parents and sharing that love of music with their children. Thus completing the circle of life that is being a Yellowcard fan. 

The band will take the stage on July 11th at Skyline Stage at the Mann Center alongside The Wild Life, Story of the Year, Mayday Parade and Emo Night Brooklyn. With a stacked lineup, you would not want to miss out on the show of the summer. You can still get tickets here but tickets are running low and will sell out before we can even say “WOAH”.