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Russ Rankin of Good Riddance joins OurSpace with Matt Vettese to discuss the band’s new album Before the World Caves In, political songwriting, punk rock activism, staying hopeful in difficult times, and whether punk music can still change minds in 2026.
In this conversation, Russ reflects on nearly three decades of writing politically charged punk songs, balancing anger with hope, and the challenge of creating meaningful art without repeating yourself. We also discuss the role of punk rock as a social movement, how music can inspire political engagement, and why community matters more than ever.
Russ also shares insights into the songwriting and recording process behind Before the World Caves In, working with Bill Stevenson, recording at The Blasting Room, and pushing Good Riddance creatively after all these years.
Plus, we talk about punk’s resurgence, activism beyond music, and some newer bands and artists that deserve your attention.
Timestamps
00:03 Introducing Russ Rankin of Good Riddance
00:27 Writing political songs in 2026
02:10 How Russ avoids writing the same song twice
03:25 Leaving room for interpretation in songwriting
06:18 Do political songs hit harder when they’re open-ended?
07:13 Can punk rock still change minds?
09:22 The impact punk had on a generation of fans
11:15 The challenge of politics in modern punk scenes
15:10 Avoiding burnout and cynicism
17:01 What Good Riddance did differently on Before the World Caves In
18:44 Looking back on Good Riddance’s early records
21:16 Lessons learned from decades in the studio
23:01 Recording with Bill Stevenson and The Blasting Room
25:02 Pushing himself as a vocalist and songwriter
26:57 Is this Good Riddance’s best work yet?
28:02 What Russ hopes fans take away from the album
29:04 Turning frustration into action
29:31 How fans can get involved in their communities
33:06 Why punk music feels relevant again
35:11 The future of punk rock and activism
35:40 Russ’s underrated artist recommendations
36:58 Planet on a Chain, Loki & Kneecap recommendations
37:10 Final thoughts
If you’re a fan of Good Riddance, Rise Against, Propagandhi, Bad Religion, Strike Anywhere, Pennywise, NOFX, Fat Wreck Chords, melodic hardcore, skate punk, and political punk rock, this conversation is for you.
