"The songs of Yellow Red Sparks... are twisted tales told through cinematic, often epic orchestrations. In the group's spectacular and creepy new video, for the song "A Play To End All Plays," a couple's failed relationship is acted out like an old circus sideshow before a finger-wagging audience. Frontman Joshua Hanson, who appears as the play's host, indicts the lovers with a surprisingly infectious melody and old-timey instrumentation." - Robin Hilton (NPR All Songs Considered, First Watch, 4/22/13)

"Yellow Red Sparks are gearing up to release their self-titled album ... and it is sure to be sonically and lyrically beautiful. Needless to say ... we should expect one of 2013's standout records early on." - FILTER Magazine ("Monsters With Misdemeanors" Premiere, 11/5/12)

"The band, led by singer-songwriter Joshua Hanson, is quiet, humble, but filled with enough warm-blooded passion to thaw through even the coldest heart. They stun in the simplest ways, make music that’s beautiful in its subtlety. Take for example Hanson’s voice — it doesn’t soar or do curvaceous tricks, but its inherent tremble and crack speak volumes of emotion." - (TheMusicNinja.com, 11/28/12)

"Idaho native Joshua Hanson writes exceedingly tender, beautiful songs and has a voice that’s perfect for them. His is a purist’s folk music, not an affectation." - Kevin Bronson (Buzzbands.LA, "Bands to Watch 2013: Ten Big Deals", 12/28/12)

"The eleven songs here on the band’s debut consistently hit emotional chords, strike out with memorable harmonies and have stylistic arrangements that only add to the Yellow Red Sparks strength...[It] has everything that I like in a solid debut – great songwriting, honest emotion and songs that just get better after every spin. I already predict that Yellow Red Sparks will end up in The Fire Note Top 50 of 2013!" - Christopher Anthony (Yellow Red Sparks Album Review, 1/29/13)

""[Yellow Red Sparks], who started off as a solo project by the hugely talented singer-songwriter Josh Hanson have released their beautiful self-titled debut album which contains thoughtful and poetic songs, an album that will surely stay on repeat for the rest of the year." - (ALTSOUNDS Album Review, 2/15/13)

"They are everything an indie band should be: melodic, rhythmic, lyrically sensitive yet positive. Oh, and extra indie points for having an introverted female cellist. Singer Josh Hanson has a voice reminiscent of the distinct Collin Meloy of the Decemberists (he has thick, black glasses and everything!). Whether Yellow Red Sparks have you singing along ("and the tickets were free"), contemplating deep lyrics or swaying with the melody, chances are you're enjoying yourself—whether it's your first or 20th listen.” - (OC Weekly, Best Indie Band 2012)

“Hanson has an instantly recognizable style, and he finds a way to fit his, at times, wordy phrases into coherent, pleasantly constructed melodies. He then fits these phrases and melodies into the songs through experimenting with and mastering changing, complex vocal patterns. The result is very impressive and presents a seemingly effortless display of musical mastery. It is this very feature that creates the instantly recognizable quality of Yellow Red Sparks.” - Ben Kashuk (Music In Press, 10/8/12)

“At a time where overwrought productions are common, it’s great to find a band that embraces just the opposite. By keeping the arrangements simple, Hanson’s narrative is brought to the forefront allowing each of the tracks to fully resonate with the listener. Ultimately, this lasting impression is just a glimpse of what a full length offering from the trio will provide: a truly intimate experience.” - Andrew McMillen (Robots For Hire, 10/8/12)

"Carrying the tradition of indie bands everywhere, Yellow Red Sparks specialize in heartfelt Americana. A cross between Coldplay and Elvis Perkins, they crank up the sentiment with big arrangements featuring swelling violins and ringing bells." - Brandon Ferguson (OC Weekly, 3/22/12)

“This trio delivers a very catchy, yet original sound that will penetrate your senses and leave you wanting more. The hypnotic melodies and straightforward lyrics carry a powerful one-two punch.” - Michelle McManmon (Examiner.com, 7/23/12)

“Yellow Red Sparks' Hanson has the lyrical mind of a playwright, weaving tales that insinuate themselves with music that almost seems choreographed for the stories.  While most of their music lives in the realm of folk-rock, you'd be selling them short to categorize the band that way… More than most bands, the music seems to serve the lyrics.” (groupee.com, 9/24/08) 

“What seems to be the key of the band's songs is simply great writing supported by great musicianship--an undeniably potent synergy of sound.” - Kacie Yoshida (OC Weekly, 9/27/12)

"[Simply Put Me In Your Place] is filled with beautiful acoustic melodies and gentle vocals." (Untitled Records, 4/4/12)