The BEC Recordings band 7eventh Time Down have really made a name for themselves in the Christian music industry, with the hit singles, "Just Say Jesus," "The One I'm Running To," "Promises," and "God is on the Move." The band caught my ear years ago with the quality power ballad, "Get Me To You," from their 2011 rock album, Alive In You.  I recently had the opportunity to speak with 7eventh Time Down's bassist Cliff Williams about their newest release, Brand New Day and their music. 

Could you tell our readers what your band name, 7eventh Time Down, means?

In 2 Kings 5, Naaman has leprosy and wants to be healed. The prophet tells him if he will humble himself and come down to the Jordan River and dip seven times that after his seventh time down, God will heal him. He eventually obeys the word of God and is healed.

What is the theme behind your new album, Brand New Day? How would you compare your latest single "The 99" to Audio Adrenaline's classic, "Leaving 99"?

The theme of Brand New Day is that God is still a good, just and loving Father, whether in the bleakest or most triumphant circumstances. He’s a real God and, although we are real people with real problems, He still chooses us—no matter what. I can’t believe we’ve never thought about comparing these songs: "The 99" and "Leaving 99." Audio Adrenaline’s song is so intimate and personal. You really feel like he’s reminding himself that God will chase him down to love him. I'm personally attached to the second verse of our song. It’s a reminder of the lengths which God has already gone to prove His love.

How do you approach your songwriting?

It’s different every time. Sometimes, it’s a conversation about what’s going on in our lives and eventually notes are sung and a song comes out. Other times we stumble upon a really inspiring sound on a keyboard and start writing. Or maybe I’m hanging out with my kids and a melody comes. You just never know.

What are some of your favorite artists and music that you listen to and why?

Paul McCartney, The Beatles, Audio Adrenaline, Hillsong, and Creedance Clearwater Revival. I also enjoy Coldplay, Imagine Dragons, Twenty-One Pilots—many of these artists have influenced the sound of our music over the years.

How has your music evolved from each album? Some say your music sounds like Daughtry. Do you think so?

We’ve gotten the Daughtry comparisons and it’s a compliment. It’s mostly because of Mikey’s massive vocals. We’ve been doing this for well over a decade and in that kind of time you just grow up—you change, life changes, and so does the music you create. We hope with every evolution we get better and better.

What's next for 7eventh Time Down?

We are starting a spring tour with Jason Gray and then showcasing our new music during summer festival season. It’s gonna be so much fun.

How can we be praying for you?

Our families are the real rock stars. Help pray for us that we stay aware of God’s plans for our lives and are able to continue walking through the delicate balance of leading our families and ministering on the road.