Yellowcard

It takes a certain finesse for a band to make a personal connection with people. The Ventura-based punk quintet knew this instinctively and they worked hard for years to achieve their loyal following. They did it the hard way, playing hundreds of all-ages punk nights, rock dives, school events, suburban VFW halls, living rooms and backyards. On Ocean Avenue, Yellowcard's debut for Capitol Records, they delivered 13 passionate punk songs of self-empowerment and self-awareness. The album has sold more than 1.3 million copies, has spawned three hit singles and has spent considerable time on Billboard's 200 chart. —EP