There is something magical about listening to a new album in full, not just a single, or a random track here or there, but to listen to a creation that a band has spent much time debating and configuring until they were ready to release their “baby” into the world. Chicago natives Yawn’s new album Open Season is a prime example of what happens when time and energy are spent creating an album that works as a whole. I’m a huge believer in “Track 3” being the strongest song, or at least setting the tone for any album and Open Season’s “Acid” does just that. Being the first single and music video it shows growth and a more defined sense of where the band is headed.

The opening track “Keep Up” has a fullness that welcomes you to the album without overwhelming the listener. “Yum Yum” is a great dance build up song to “Acid” which is definitely the corner stone of the album.  “Gasoline”s opening vocals are a great change from the previous 3 tracks; dancey 80s Beach Boy’s comes to mind in the best way possible. “Sing Low” the first song of the album that doesn’t scream “ DANCE NOW!” but more quietly lends itself to a  swaying that is reminiscent of a Morning Benders tune. “Magician” is a great update on what I consider to be an early Yawn sound. “Never Knew” sadly the shortest track on the album is by far the most interesting to me ranging many possible genres of music within one song could be a huge draw for gaining new fans of all music. The carnival-esque waltz feel of “Astral Observatory” starts to bring the close of the album to a slower slightly darker place with “Candle” following suit. “Indigo” picks up the pace gradually again to lead into the closing track “Rainy Days”, which has a sense of completeness, closure, and grandeur that makes it a perfect ending note to the album.

The timing of this end of the summer release could not have been better. This album will help flow from summer into the fall months. I would recommend enjoying this album in it,s entirety, while driving or commuting from a long day. It is sure to pick you up and help mellow you out.

I’ve been familiar with Yawn for several years. I have had the opportunity to see them grow from early shows opening on a weekday at The Double Door, to an interview in The RedEye comparing them to Animal Collective, to now getting press releases of their video debuting on Rollingstone.com. These guys surely have shown that hard work and talent will get you far. They are kicking off a record release party tonight at Chicago’s Schubas, but will shortly after start touring with Mates of State. Check out Yawn’s website for a show in your city.