In a sea of angry, snarling punks, 7Seconds has stood out as a positive force for more than three decades. Their energy remains youthful and uplifting, as opposed to many bands that stick together for that long who tend to become bitter toward their scene and their fans.

It has been nine years since the release of their last album, but 7Seconds still play with as much power as in the good old days. This album is a great mix of the hardcore sound 7Seconds started off with and the more melodic, poppy sound from their later albums. The overall theme remains the same: songs about unity and PMA, which are still (and will always remain) relevant.

I love seeing 7 Seconds live because they always play with big smiles and never hesitate to express their appreciation to the crowd: “This stage is not just ours — it belongs to everyone,” Kevin Seconds explained last time I saw them live. “Just be careful when you jump off it — we love you all and wouldn’t want any of you to get badly hurt.”

(Rise Records, 15455 NW Greenbrier Pkwy. Suite 115, Beaverton, OR 97006)