I was never the biggest 7 Seconds fan. I’m still not, but I think that, somehow, I appreciate them more now at 41 than I ever did as a teenager. I’m not sure how this came to be, as their lyrics and presentation are theoretically far removed from the middle-aged and live firmly in the realm of teen punk angst. But, here we are.
When I say that I was never a big fan, I don’t mean that I don’t acknowledge their importance or that I ever disliked them in any way. It’s more like they fell by the wayside because too many other bands from that era were already taking up space down in front. I preferred Dead Kennedys and Minor Threat – and when I heard Crucifix, the party was over.
However, 7 Seconds are a great band and I recommend them to anyone who will take the time to listen – especially the younger set who might be seeking acceptance in a scene or peer group that they don’t feel comfortable in. I may like the music of Minor Threat or Gorilla Biscuits better, but 7 Seconds is more adept at getting across their positivity and straight edge message. They’re better at letting young people know that you don’t have to use drugs or alcohol to totally kick ass – that your individuality is a strength and there are people out there who understand.
There are so many punk records that have the potential to change a young kid’s life. This is one of them. “Committed for Life” is a great example of packing a lot of punch in a short amount of time. These seven songs run the gamut of issues facing past and present punk scenes and youth who don’t quite fit in. There’s a reason ‘80s hardcore is so endearing and timeless, and this record illustrates that with speed, ferocity, honesty, and melody.
James is a writer, record collector, wrestling nerd, and tabletop gamer living with his family in Asheville, North Carolina. He is a member of the Southeastern Film Critics Association, the North Carolina Film Critics Association, and contributes to The Daily Orca, Razorcake Magazine, Mountain Xpress, and Asheville Movies.