Hi-STANDARD’s frantic sound straddles the edge of pure ’90s, dead-ahead punk rock and the cheekiness of the early ‘00s pop-punk explosion. Formed in 1991, the Japanese power trio subsequently toured with the likes of Green Day, Rancid and NOFX—all of whom have imprinted their various shades of punk onto the band. The anthemic choruses of songs like “Fighting Fists, Angry Soul” play off against socially conscious lyrics, while the nasal vocals on the blistering melodic hardcore workout “STAY GOLD” contrast their irreverent attitude and undeniable sincerity of intent.