Punchline - Just Say Yes

[Chris Fallon]

Punchline - Just Say Yes
Record Label: Modern Short Stories
Release Date: September 16, 2008

Let me get this out of the way: thank goodness Punchline is no longer a Fueled by Ramen band. That black hole of a label - where some talented bands go and die for a few years or forever (it depends, really) - is too caught up in executing bad decisions concerning promising bands who have taken some big steps backwards, opting for formula over meaning.

For Pittsburgh pop-punk mainstays Punchline, however, it was an escape best suited for them. In the time they've left their former do-good label, the band won $25,000 and started their own label, Modern Short Stories, whose first release is the band's fifth full-length, Just Say Yes. After many were disappointed with 2006's 37 Everywhere, perhaps because it's failed to contain the energy and interesting pop-punk strategy 2004's Action had, people were discouraged. Fear not, APFaithful - pop-punk is in the right hands, and Punchline are one of the floundering genre's saviors.

Despite the artwork that may point some in the direction of any current FBR band, the album is a throwback to the band's older, better-crafted sound - or more appropriately, the proper follow-up to their fan favorite, Action, taking on the same song progressions and sound qualities that album had. It doesn't hurt that Sean O'Keefe is behind the boards this time again, as well, splitting production duties with Jamie Woolford (Let Go, The Stereo), both making the recordings sound full, lush and crisp. The piano-pop of "Somewhere in the Dark" is brisk and shines with optimism; "Ghostie" is overflowing with aggression and pop; "Get Off My Train!" is a fast-paced, garage-rock scorcher; "How Does This Happen?" is classic Punchline, taking a simple hook and boosting it into the stratosphere; "Just Say Yes" is experimental pop, similar to Jimmy Eat World's Clarity years; "The Other Piano Man" is a raucous circus of harmony; and "Castaway" might be their best closing anthem ever, following the same build-up as "Exactly," showing that Punchline isn't your run-of-the-mill pop-punk band - their lyrics have always been largely introspective and investigations of modern human follies.

Normally, vocal duties were split evenly between band members, however on Just Say Yes, Steve Soboslai is the main attraction, with Jon Belan and Chris Fafalios rarely chiming in (as compared to previous albums). While their presence is missed, Soboslai continues to improve as a perfect voice for Punchline. He has just the right amount of angst in his voice, combined with sincerity and an eager notepad from which he has a lot to say, as if he's reading a flurry of thoughts. His voice is clear, concise and when the other bandmates join in, nothing ever seems out of place or whacked (although Belan sounds like a guest vocalist from Atreyu sometimes). P.J. Caruso's drumkit is so rich and has the perfect amount of "oomph," giving the disc a great deal of depth and power ("Punish or Privilege" is a great showcase of this). The only pratfall Punchline might need to consider improving is their lyrical abilities, which can be quite cornball and cliched ("Hope is just this thing that holds us down"; "I've got some news / I'm better off without you"), however the melodies are so addicting, it's rather difficult to fault them for a cheesy line here or there.

When you break it down, Just Say Yes is that record that reminds us of what made indie labels like Fueled by Ramen so special in the early part of the millennium. Punchline may have gone out and won a good chunk of change to restart their musical career, but in the process, just may have recorded their best album to date. It's bouncy, rhythmic and snappy - the way you've come to expect your old FBR favorites (such as The Stereo and Jersey, for starters). Pop-punk can be done effectively - and Just Say Yes is a terrific example of precisely how that is.

Punchline's Action; The Stereo's Rewind + Record; MxPx's Panic; Yellowcard's Underdog EP; former Fueled by Ramen bands who like to show you how much that label used to kick fucking ass"Somwhere in the Dark," "Castaway" and "How Does This Happen?"

1. Ghostie
2. The Hit
3. Punish or Privilege
4. Maybe I'm Wrong
5. Somewhere in the Dark
6. Just Say Yes
7. How Does This Happen?
8. Get Off My Train!
9. Developing You, Camera
10. My White Collared Shirt
11. The Other Piano Man
12. CastawaySteve Soboslai: vocals/guitar
Jon Belan: guitar/vocals
Chris Fafalios: bass/vocals
P.J. Caruso: drums

Official Site (http://www.punchkids.com) | Official Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/punchline)Amazon MP3 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GXVS7E?ie=UTF8&tag=absolutepun02-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001GXVS7E)

[Matthew Tsai]

i like

[heyzombiehitler]

From what I heard so far it sounds a bit too poppy for me. But for the record, I though 37 Everywhere was fantastic.

[Chris Fallon]

From what I heard so far it sounds a bit too poppy for me. But for the record, I though 37 Everywhere was fantastic.
I liked it, too - I understand why people may not have been so big on it, but I still think it's a pretty good album.

The band is, at its core, a pop band. But the album still has some crunch to it, and the first half of the album is well-done pop-punk before branching out into different realms of the pop world.

[hockeyguitar99]

I liked 37 Everywhere and am really excited for this. Your reviewing some good shit tonight Chris.

[runningohfive]

good review, I can't wait for this album

[heyzombiehitler]

I liked it, too - I understand why people may not have been so big on it, but I still think it's a pretty good album.

The band is, at its core, a pop band. But the album still has some crunch to it, and the first half of the album is well-done pop-punk before branching out into different realms of the pop world.

That may be so, and I do respect these guys (only fueled by ramen record I have), but at the same time you have to admit their heavier stuff is great. When are you posting your review for Shudder? Im anticipating a good read.

[Chris Fallon]

That may be so, and I do respect these guys (only fueled by ramen record I have), but at the same time you have to admit their heavier stuff is great. When are you posting your review for Shudder? Im anticipating a good read.
I agree with you - I prefer their heavier material ... but I can't deny my love for some great pop melodies, which Punchline succeeds at.

Think I'll be posting my Shudder review early next week :-)

[HelpMeSleep]

good review, Chris. I'm excited to hear this now. :-)

[allisterkid]

I'm actually excited for this now. Didn't like their last album as much as Action though.

[tait]

i want

[Snails]

Great review man. I'm extremely excited for this.

[SwishMX48]

37 Everywhere definitely had to grow on me but now its one of the few "pop punk" albums from the last few years that I still listen too. I'm pretty excited to hear this.

[birtcho]

i dont know about the vocals getting a 9 judging from the songs on their myspace

[Chris Fallon]

i dont know about the vocals getting a 9 judging from the songs on their myspace
Well, I'm judging from the entire album - Steve shines on this disc, especially in the latter half when he tones them down.

[mr chainsaw]

so stoked

good review.

[ESundy36]

Great review. I cannot wait to get this album.

[PaintMeBlue]

i liked action and 37 everywhere, and am very excited for this. good review!

[schaft0620]

"After many were disappointed with 2006's 37 Everywhere, perhaps because it's failed to contain the energy and interesting pop-punk strategy 2004's Action had, people were discouraged."

I think every punchline fan loves this album I haven't met a punchline fan that did say 37 everywhere is their best album. (pre "Just Say Yes")

[Chris Fallon]

"After many were disappointed with 2006's 37 Everywhere, perhaps because it's failed to contain the energy and interesting pop-punk strategy 2004's Action had, people were discouraged."

I think every punchline fan loves this album I haven't met a punchline fan that did say 37 everywhere is their best album. (pre "Just Say Yes")
I know what you mean - but I've heard a good amount of people say they weren't nearly as satisfied. That is, the majority of people who aren't big Punchline fans. Personally, I dug the record ... but I know not everyone still spins it regularly or remembers it all too well.

[Crowan]

Great review

[Slaur]

I cannot wait to hear this.

[EchoPark]

As always Chris,excellent review. I look forward to hearing this too, Punchline always found time to play in my hometown during the late 90's and onward so I have nothing but respect for these guys, they've been around for a near decade making quality music.

I was a tad disappointed too with 37 Everywhere but only comparing it to Action, It is a shame Chris Fafalios doesn't sing on this release as much as it is always good to see bass players who can sing lead and still play well, which he does.

[i12punk]

Great review. Although, Punchline will never be as good as when Paul was in the band. He (and Sean O'Keefe, of course) really was the key to why Action was so good.

[Tony Pascarella]

Love this album; definitely go pick this up, guys. Even if you really didn't like 37 Everywhere, the band has in a way almost reinvented themselves with Just Say Yes.

[sputniksignals]

I really like what I'm hearing so far on myspace. Great review Chris

[scmaley]

Lol at the RIYL. I'm also going to check this out.

[ak4]

excited as all hell..<3 punchline

[Alex DiVincenzo]

Good review. I'm really anticipating this one.

[maffy]

Great review man. I'm extremely excited for this.

Hey dude, what's your avatar of?? It caught my eye.

[battybat17]

Loved 37 Everywhere, but I've been following this band for a long time... So to me it just felt like a progression, especially considering the lineup change. Greg brought to the table what he needed to.

However, I'm very, VERY excited about Just Say Yes, and at least live, I think Belan is a better fit than Greg was. I heard or read some interview once, around the time 37 Everywhere came out, where Steve said one day, he hopes they're band that can put out an album that has a few "weird songs," referring to why "The Other Piano Man" didn't make that record, so I'm glad it made this one. I had a clip of it, from that same interview, that always drove me nuts because it was sooooo good but just a clip.

Just got an email yesterday that my pre-order is going out in the mail. Can. Not. Wait.

[popdisaster00]

I agree with you - I prefer their heavier material ... but I can't deny my love for some great pop melodies, which Punchline succeeds at.

Think I'll be posting my Shudder review early next week :-)
don't know if it was posted, but i think chris is bass, not guitar.

[Galedeep]

I wasn't sure if I was going to check this out, but now I'm pretty sure I will. Great review.

[Rest_Easy]

I like 37 everywhere a lot as well. Of course Action was the better of their cd's. I believe they also had the Rewind ep before that which I really didn't care for. So I'm looking forward to this one.

[cscwell107]

I really enjoyed 37 everywhere and I'm really pumped for this record.

[Vick5y]

Can't wait to get my pre-order!!! Great review.

[ishotthepilot]

i must have missed this people-disliking-37-everywhere thing, but i'm super excited from your review! can't wait for my preorder either :)

[hitormiss21]

good review...i like 37 and action, so im stoked for this one. cant wait to hear it

[thiswokendream]

Well I am here to also say that I absolutely love 37 Everywhere. When it first hit my stereo it was so different but at the same time it was the same pop punk I had grown to love. There aren't many albums anymore where every single song is good. Most bads throw one slow song in the middle of the album and you have to skip it everytime to keep things upbeat. But 37 flows perfectly.

I cannot wait for "Just Say Yes" It needs to leak now. But don't worry I'm still buying it on Tuesday if it does.

[PJG1983]

i might be lost...

can someone explain how they won 25 grand??

[faithinfastcars]

what a disgusting way to start a review.

i understand that this review is entirely the reviewer's opinion, writing off an entire label is a pretty shit thing to do. i'm not sure which "bad decisions" you're referencing, but i'm still a FBR fan and I still see bands doing good things on there.

37 everywhere, despite it's best attempts, wasn't a great album. I love the band, don't get me wrong, but I feel like FBR did what they could for that record and that was it.

love the review of the record, but am definitely disappointed in the reviewer on this one.


start the hate-replies.....now!

[SteveD]

Couldn't be more excited

[goodnewsgeorge]

37 everywhere was the first time i ever heard punchline, and i loved that album. i still listen to it once in awhile, can't wait to hear this one :D

[saving jonathan]

I was not expecting such a favorable review for this. I know there are a lot of Punchline haters around here, but I really enjoyed 37 Everywhere.
I'll be sure to check this out now.

[akster]

Great review. Although, Punchline will never be as good as when Paul was in the band. He (and Sean O'Keefe, of course) really was the key to why Action was so good.

You will love the o'keefe tracks on here. Just got my preorder, So fucking good.

[tm decomposer]

Weird. Same album name as another band.

[Chris Fallon]

what a disgusting way to start a review.

i understand that this review is entirely the reviewer's opinion, writing off an entire label is a pretty shit thing to do. i'm not sure which "bad decisions" you're referencing, but i'm still a FBR fan and I still see bands doing good things on there.

37 everywhere, despite it's best attempts, wasn't a great album. I love the band, don't get me wrong, but I feel like FBR did what they could for that record and that was it.

love the review of the record, but am definitely disappointed in the reviewer on this one.


start the hate-replies.....now!
If you can't see what FBR has become since it started, why don't you go right ahead and shoot Vinnie - it's former co-operator - an email. I'm sure he'd be able to tell you some wonderful things that would make you think twice about your praise.

[3eb23]

punchline got a 9 on vocals?

[battybat17]

If you can't see what FBR has become since it started, why don't you go right ahead and shoot Vinnie - it's former co-operator - an email. I'm sure he'd be able to tell you some wonderful things that would make you think twice about your praise.

Completely agreed. I've talked to Vinnie about this as well, and a few other bands that were signed around the same time Punchline signed. The label is NOT what it was when he started it, which is why he also left.
FBR used to have soul. Can't say most of its bands do anymore. :(
(Oh, also, for a little more insight you can read the feature review of the record in AP. The interviewer asked Steve about leaving FBR.)

punchline got a 9 on vocals?

...That's one thing that always drew me to Punchline: Dudes can sing (and harmonize) really well.

You will love the o'keefe tracks on here. Just got my preorder, So fucking good.

Damn you Gabe, you made me go check my mail in my PJs (since I work from home and haven't gotten dressed yet today) and it's not here yet. I got an email that my preorder went out yesterday and have been tracking it compulsively with USPS. I'm getting anxious!

[captainamazing4]

i cannot wait to hear this record. niiiiiiice review :]

[Kurt Retenauer]

what's this about winning 25000 dollars?

[CMXPunch]

Hey everybody, its your good buddy Chris Fafalios!
I play bass in Punchline.
I first wanna thank Chris Fallon for the kind words...thanks buddy! I'm glad you enjoyed the album.
I love the part where you reference an obscure character from Neverending Story...from now on when I hear Belan singin', I'm gonna think about him yelling for Artex as he drowns in the swamp!
I am really excited to hear what everyone thinks about the album.
I gotta agree with the Echo guy too, I'm gonna insist to my band that I sing lead on the whole next album. I think they'll go for it.
This is the most exciting time of my life. I hope people post what they think of the album so I can read it.

[ishotthepilot]

i might be lost...

can someone explain how they won 25 grand??

what's this about winning 25000 dollars?


i assume that's from the video contest, i forget the website but they got the most views & votes or something? and won 25000. sweet deal right?

[lavalleind.]

loved 37 everywhere

[thiswokendream]

Hey everybody, its your good buddy Chris Fafalios!
I play bass in Punchline.
I first wanna thank Chris Fallon for the kind words...thanks buddy! I'm glad you enjoyed the album.
I love the part where you reference an obscure character from Neverending Story...from now on when I hear Belan singin', I'm gonna think about him yelling for Artex as he drowns in the swamp!
I am really excited to hear what everyone thinks about the album.
I gotta agree with the Echo guy too, I'm gonna insist to my band that I sing lead on the whole next album. I think they'll go for it.
This is the most exciting time of my life. I hope people post what they think of the album so I can read it.
I'm so impatient when it comes to new music from bands I really like. As soon as this thing leaks I will give it my complete attention and post my opinion. Don't worry I'm buying it regardless on Tuesday.

[Chris Fallon]

Hey everybody, its your good buddy Chris Fafalios!
I play bass in Punchline.
I first wanna thank Chris Fallon for the kind words...thanks buddy! I'm glad you enjoyed the album.
I love the part where you reference an obscure character from Neverending Story...from now on when I hear Belan singin', I'm gonna think about him yelling for Artex as he drowns in the swamp!
I am really excited to hear what everyone thinks about the album.
I gotta agree with the Echo guy too, I'm gonna insist to my band that I sing lead on the whole next album. I think they'll go for it.
This is the most exciting time of my life. I hope people post what they think of the album so I can read it.
:wave:

Chris, my pleasure dude - tell the rest of the guys I said hi. Hope John doesn't wanna kick my ass haha

Fafalios solo record? Yes plz

And sorry, I spaced - I know you play bass haha I'm just a dumbass.

[scott2h2o]

Cant wait for album and also to see them in Jersey Oct 24th :)

[scott2h2o]

Couldn't be more excited

Punchline @ Marlboro Rec Center(Marlboro,NJ)
Friday Oct 24th 2008
www.myspace.com/punchline (http://www.myspace.com/punchline)

[scott2h2o]

loved 37 everywhere

Punchline @ Marlboro Rec Center(Marlboro,NJ)
Friday Oct 24th 2008
www.myspace.com/punchline (http://www.myspace.com/punchline)

[scott2h2o]

i assume that's from the video contest, i forget the website but they got the most views & votes or something? and won 25000. sweet deal right?

Punchline @ Marlboro Rec Center(Marlboro,NJ)
Friday Oct 24th 2008
www.myspace.com/punchline (http://www.myspace.com/punchline)

[Chris Fallon]

Multi-quote not cutting it for ya?

[SteveD]

Punchline @ Marlboro Rec Center(Marlboro,NJ)
Friday Oct 24th 2008
www.myspace.com/punchline (http://www.myspace.com/punchline)

just made my day

[WakeUpBlondie]

I enjoyed action as well as 37 everywhere, i'll have to get this. Good thing they're off FBR, I think they're a major label masked.

[WakeUpBlondie]

I liked it, too - I understand why people may not have been so big on it, but I still think it's a pretty good album.

The band is, at its core, a pop band. But the album still has some crunch to it, and the first half of the album is well-done pop-punk before branching out into different realms of the pop world.


Chris I love your reviews!

How does this fit between action and 37?

[bitterhalo]

action is quite possibly one of my favorite pop punk records ever, i constantly go back to it when i have nothing else to listen to. I really enjoyed 37 everywhere as well. So i am very much excited about this record. judging by the review, i think i'm going to really really enjoy this record.

[royaltannenbomb]

this band will never be as good as they were with greg. 37 ev was the best album and they suck now without greg.

[akster]

this band will never be as good as they were with greg. 37 ev was the best album and they suck now without greg.

:efu:

[Chris Fallon]

Chris I love your reviews!

How does this fit between action and 37?
I'd say it fits in-between somewhere. Although, in time, I could see it surpassing Action. It's the best of both worlds, really.

this band will never be as good as they were with greg. 37 ev was the best album and they suck now without greg.
Wrong. Greg was only one person -- Steve, Chris & PJ have been the core for years, and John is a great presence.

[heyamander]

hey, isn't that punchline chat going on tomorrow night? anyone know what time it starts?

[flatstar]

I liked it, too - I understand why people may not have been so big on it, but I still think it's a pretty good album.

The band is, at its core, a pop band. But the album still has some crunch to it, and the first half of the album is well-done pop-punk before branching out into different realms of the pop world.

I liked 37 Everywhere and am really excited for this. Your reviewing some good shit tonight Chris.

"After many were disappointed with 2006's 37 Everywhere, perhaps because it's failed to contain the energy and interesting pop-punk strategy 2004's Action had, people were discouraged."

I think every punchline fan loves this album I haven't met a punchline fan that did say 37 everywhere is their best album. (pre "Just Say Yes")

I'd say it fits in-between somewhere. Although, in time, I could see it surpassing Action. It's the best of both worlds, really.


Wrong. Greg was only one person -- Steve, Chris & PJ have been the core for years, and John is a great presence.


Have to agree with everyone on that. I LOVED 37 everywhere. I was a fan before the CD came out but 37 made me love them even more. It was just so damn catchy and i loved seeing them perform those songs live. I just got my greedy little hands on Just Say Yes and so far I like. I'll have to give it another listen tomorrow when I can play it nice and loud. I can't wait till they come back here on tour!

I really loved Greg Wood on 37 everywhere I think so far he was the best match for Steve's voice, I would never say they suck without him but I'm still sad he's gone. Steve has a pretty unique voice though, that with their style of music makes them different from all these new horrible trendy pop punk bands.

[poppunknerd182]

"former Fueled by Ramen bands who like to show you how much that label used to kick fucking ass"

....I miss August Premier haha

that being said, I've had the pleasure of playing with Punchline in 2004, and they are hands down the coolest guys in rock today.

Like most Pline fans, Action was heaven for me, and I was super let down with 37 Everywhere, I haven't been very keen on the tracks I've heard off Just Say Yes, but this review is solid, so I'm hoping it grows on me when I get it.

[tait]

im so stoked for this

[ak4]

its good...funny how it leaks same day as this review...i thoroughly enjoy castaway

[flatstar]

"former Fueled by Ramen bands who like to show you how much that label used to kick fucking ass"

....I miss August Premier haha

that being said, I've had the pleasure of playing with Punchline in 2004, and they are hands down the coolest guys in rock today.

Like most Pline fans, Action was heaven for me, and I was super let down with 37 Everywhere, I haven't been very keen on the tracks I've heard off Just Say Yes, but this review is solid, so I'm hoping it grows on me when I get it.


funny every punchline fan i know loves 37 everywhere

[thiswokendream]

Just finished my first listen and I have to honestly say I'm not really feeling it. Is it bad? No. Just not what I was hoping for from the band. I am sure it will grow on me. I think fans of 37 Everywhere will be disappointed. Let me give it a few more listens today and I will give it a real review.

[royaltannenbomb]

Just finished my first listen and I have to honestly say I'm not really feeling it. Is it bad? No. Just not what I was hoping for from the band. I am sure it will grow on me. I think fans of 37 Everywhere will be disappointed. Let me give it a few more listens today and I will give it a real review.

serioulsy cant wait for your review

[Chris Fallon]

Just finished my first listen and I have to honestly say I'm not really feeling it. Is it bad? No. Just not what I was hoping for from the band. I am sure it will grow on me. I think fans of 37 Everywhere will be disappointed. Let me give it a few more listens today and I will give it a real review.
Is this supposed to be a jab at me?

[thiswokendream]

Is this supposed to be a jab at me?

Lol. No not at all. I just meant because what I posted was nothing more than early thoughts and not a "real" review. I wouldn't try to attack anyone for a review. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and that is why I like this site!

[Chris Fallon]

Lol. No not at all. I just meant because what I posted was nothing more than early thoughts and not a "real" review. I wouldn't try to attack anyone for a review. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and that is why I like this site!
Ahh, okay that's cool. I was just thrown for a loop there, that's all.

Feel free to use our user review feature (http://absolutepunk.net/journal.php?do=showentry&e=25782) and write your own to be published on the site.

[thiswokendream]

Ahh, okay that's cool. I was just thrown for a loop there, that's all.

Feel free to use our user review feature (http://absolutepunk.net/journal.php?do=showentry&e=25782) and write your own to be published on the site.

I was thinking about doing that and then just posting a link in this thread. I really want to love this album. I hope a few more listens does the trick.

[laprimavistaa]

I've heard the whole thing through various means and through a bunch of people, and where this album is no where near the pop-punk brilliance that is Action, it's certainly a new step in being a better band. And for what it's worth, 37 Everywhere was a pretty good record.

[benbjork]

From the clips I'd been hearing in the year leading up to this release, I was actually terribly nervous for how the album would turn out. The demos, the album name, the album art... all got me really worried.

Fortunately, listening to it today was a huge relief. The finished versions of the songs sound so much better than I was hoping for. In my opinion, they did reclaim some of the sound I loved on Action, but not in so strong a way that I get flashbacks listening to it.

I'll agree that the lyrics could be stronger, but Punchline has always expressed their message with an amazing sense of humor (like robot maids in rocky IV...?) and, yeah, a little cheese on the side. If you don't like that, how the hell do you like Punchline?

Only one real complaint: more Fafalios and Belan. Chris' verses have always been top-notch, and I absolutely love Jon's voice. Hopefully Gene the Werewolf (http://www.myspace.com/genethewerewolf) ends up with an album of their own.

Overall, I'm very relieved and happy for Punchline. Can't wait to see my first post-JSY show.

- - - - -

Question: Does anyone else think the fourth track on the bonus disc sounds just like one of the guys from The Mile After? If it is, let me know, because it sounds so familiar.

[buried_]

it may be too early to comment, but i don't like it after my first run through of the cd. i've loved all of their releases, but i'm not too sure about this one yet.

[johnnylcd]

nice review chris

[Snails]

Hey dude, what's your avatar of?? It caught my eye.

It's the art for a band called Brigten's new EP. It's really, really good, you should check them out:
http:/.www.myspace.com/wearebrighten

[theairsmells]

Punchline, who has been hitting the pavement since 1997, touring over 47 countries, 5,000 shows, playing with their favorite bands, playing with dogs, and delivering good melodies, riffs, and beats since the Bee Gees. They have come along way since the days of playing Connellsville and Charleroi with Logic. Wasn’t Jon Belan in that band? Fire!
This is Punchline’s 13th album and is their most mature; adding clean guitars, wah wah pedals, and little nooks and crannies everywhere. Unlike their last albums where strong patterned structure was evident aka Action, Just Say Yes gives you an emotional ride of melody, pop hooks, piano, and PJ’s solid drumming. Hey PJ, tell your dad I said Hi.
<br>
I just received my copy of JSY Friday and it sounds exactly like Action. In fact, all of these songs were written in 2001 when Steve was a third year freshman living in tower C at the university of Pittsburgh. Hey Steve, how did that B & F work out for you on your last report card? R.I.P. Seaside.
<br>
The album is extremely long adding up to a total of 2 hours and 52 minutes.
Of the 12 songs, only 3.7 of them are upbeat and poppy. The guitars have many affects including a wah wah pedal, a driver, a porter, and 3 delays. Giving the CD a mood and feel, more than a just a moderate healing. It has the ride of a rollercoaster, but one that is cruising around town going 9 mph.
<br>
Adding Jon Belan to the band, who has been playing piano since 1987, has added a nice augmented sound to the tracks. Just listen to “the other piano man”, has tons of Van Halen meets Journey meets Genesis. Post Peter Gabriel of course.
The structure of this CD is something that Punchline has not done since “how to get kicked out of the mall”. You notice this in “maybe I’m wrong” where the clean guitars reminisce “Jarrod isn’t funny anymore”. I wonder how Jarrod Sekoski is these days?
<br>
I rate this CD a 7 out of 5 stars.
*The bonus CD is where the bonus points come from.
<br>
Fans of music will enjoy this album. Especially on vinyl.

[battybat17]

Punchline, who has been hitting the pavement since 1997, touring over 47 countries, 5,000 shows, playing with their favorite bands, playing with dogs, and delivering good melodies, riffs, and beats since the Bee Gees. They have come along way since the days of playing Connellsville and Charleroi with Logic. Wasn’t Jon Belan in that band? Fire!
This is Punchline’s 13th album and is their most mature; adding clean guitars, wah wah pedals, and little nooks and crannies everywhere. Unlike their last albums where strong patterned structure was evident aka Action, Just Say Yes gives you an emotional ride of melody, pop hooks, piano, and PJ’s solid drumming. Hey PJ, tell your dad I said Hi.
<br>
I just received my copy of JSY Friday and it sounds exactly like Action. In fact, all of these songs were written in 2001 when Steve was a third year freshman living in tower C at the university of Pittsburgh. Hey Steve, how did that B & F work out for you on your last report card? R.I.P. Seaside.
<br>
The album is extremely long adding up to a total of 2 hours and 52 minutes.
Of the 12 songs, only 3.7 of them are upbeat and poppy. The guitars have many affects including a wah wah pedal, a driver, a porter, and 3 delays. Giving the CD a mood and feel, more than a just a moderate healing. It has the ride of a rollercoaster, but one that is cruising around town going 9 mph.
<br>
Adding Jon Belan to the band, who has been playing piano since 1987, has added a nice augmented sound to the tracks. Just listen to “the other piano man”, has tons of Van Halen meets Journey meets Genesis. Post Peter Gabriel of course.
The structure of this CD is something that Punchline has not done since “how to get kicked out of the mall”. You notice this in “maybe I’m wrong” where the clean guitars reminisce “Jarrod isn’t funny anymore”. I wonder how Jarrod Sekoski is these days?
<br>
I rate this CD a 7 out of 5 stars.
*The bonus CD is where the bonus points come from.
<br>
Fans of music will enjoy this album. Especially on vinyl.


Not gonna lie. I laughed.
Who ARE you?

[Klatzke]

Eh, i don't think the vocals deserve a 9.

That's just my opinion though.

[coma]

While they do have some cornballish lyrics, I've got to say they have some great ones as well. "You're a work of art / and I've lowered value from the start." etc.

[Blake Solomon]

i tend to like their slower songs, and this has some great ones. Loved 37 Everywhere and I can see myself loving this one, too.

[triggerthesound]

37 everywhere is actually one of my favorite albums, i don't know anyone personally who didn't enjoy that record
i heard the new songs at an in-store and instantly picked up the new album
and its really growing on me
the chant on the s/t track gives me to gooosebumps

[TSTLSOOM]

still havnt picked it up yet.
I NEED TOO.
lvoe the songs i got to promote the cd tho

[Banshee Call]

solid album, nice review.
defiantly a buy

[Brandao]

37 everywhere was a solid album in my opinion.

But know that i've heard Just Say Yes for almost a month now...I must say that you were probably right when you said that this is their best album to date.

[radxbandit]

just bought this, love it.

[simpleawakening]

wait where did they get 25 grand from?

[Sucker For Punk]

I loved 37 Everywhere. Then again, it was the first album I heard from Punchline. That album got me hooked on Punchline. It's a great album in my opinion if you just take it for what it is. Seeing as how I have no other Punchline albums to compare it too, I saw it as a good pop-punk album with catchy lyrics and a good old pop-punk feel. It made me think Blink 182 and New Found Glory. This new album definitely has a different sound than 37 Everywhere, so it may take a few listens to get used to for me. I've been out of the music scene for a while and only catch an occasional new record from time to time. All-in-all, time's have changed and Chris I have read a few of your reviews and I like them because I think we come from the same era and have spent a lot of our days listening to the same albums/labels. So I relate to a lot of what you say. Keep on keeping on.

[superBMRuth]

one of my favorite albums this year.

[punchline fan]

i love this album, is one of the best of 2008

[xapplexpiex]

I like Action a lot better than 37 Everywhere, but I'll still check this out.