Having put some distance in years between myself and 7 Seconds with a vague recollection of some sort metal-esque experiments, I was hesitant to pick up take it back when I inadvertently stumbled on it. After all, the tidal wave of re-formed bands has left a catalog that statistically reinforces the adage of “when in doubt, go for the old releases.” However, armed with a little nostalgia and an appreciation for Kevin’s solo effort Rodney, Reggie, Emily, I decided to check it out. Well that and a mention in the often trustworthy Razorcake.

Take It Back, Take It On, Take It Over is pretty darn good. It’s got a lot of catchy memorable songs that hearken back to the sing along days of Walk Together, Rock Together, but this time around it seems like they did a better job in the studio as far as mixing and production. There’s also a little more singing and less yelling.  Some of the better songs like All Came Undone, This is Temporary, and Still On It will have you singing along with Kevin in no time. Where is the Danger succinctly echoes the feelings that many of us have towards the new radio and tv friendly punk marketing machine. One of the appealing things about 7 Seconds was the vulnerability that came through in spite of the tough outward appearances. Lest you think that Take It Back, Take It On, Take It Over is just the same old messages written to new music… a more mature point of view is present, especially in Big Hardcore Mystery and  Your Parent’s Hardcore. I’m not sure how kids are going to react to a song with that title, but suffice to say, if you’re feeling a bit old or self conscious to listen to standard hardcore and you aren’t anywhere near being a teenager, this record has the best chance of bridging a punk–generation gap that I can think of. Leave it to Kevin and crew to be the ones to be able to do it. Even though the band may have been naïve in the beginning, they always had a mature optimism tempered until in their youth. Young until they die? Mission Accomplished.

I'm going to include this promo image for no reason other than I like this band and I like this record.

So Take It Back, Take It On, Take It Over is a good release. Like any record of the genre it sometimes struggles to hold your complete attention all the way through the second half, but fortunately there are ample strong songs throughout to make it worthwhile..  It even features a mostly original lineup, I’m not going to dig out the old vinyl to double check but there’s only one name that I can’t remember. I’m going to further expose my punk rock ignorance (and research laziness) by admitting to not knowing why they aren’t on Better Youth, or even if the Better Youth Organization label is still the same organization. Yes, this is a particularly lazy review. Buy this record if you ever liked 7 Seconds at any point in your life, or if you’re young and you want to know what what the fuss is about. Buy it you you like positive, intelligent punk.

Extra Credit: How can remember what the band’s name means?

Online Action: www.7seconds.com
Online Action: www.sideonedummy.com

Reviewer: Kilwag