In the album’s first single, “Holiday,” the song relates to the demographic the band is famous for reaching:  college students.  This album shows how the band is growing up, as some of the themes in the songs like the fourth track, “Head in Hands.”  This track is an example of the youthful angst we all feel when we’re stuck working our nine to five jobs for the first time.

We All Need A Reason to Believe has the sound Valencia is known for: the punk-pop sound of the electric instruments of the band and the emo, without the whining, sound of the lead singer’s voice.  There are, however, songs on the album that show the influence of other bands. The fifth song, “Carry On,” will remind older music lovers of Ben Folds Five’s, “Brick.” The fifth track features the same beat and sound in lead singer Shane Henderson’s voice as there was in Ben Fold's.

Overall Valencia’s latest effort to make music hits the mark.  They have successfully kept the same sound, but expanded on it, and on their talents as they are growing up. The lyrics target the right audience and accurately describe the feelings of 18 to 25-year-olds.  We All Need A Reason to Believe is another hit for Valencia.  Those who once snubbed Valencia, should try listening to this album, and then re-evaluate their opinion of this local band.

Check out their MySpace to listen to songs from the newest CD:  http://www.myspace.com/valencia