Blink-182 (or one-eighty-two, as we yanks say) return to their own special brand of snotty boy bubblegum punk and the result is glorious. Citing an 80s influence, "Always" is the kind of tune that gives your ass a life all its own as it pushes you off the couch and into frenzied bouncy fits. The lyrics may reveal a more emotionally mature side of Blink but the music makes no sacrifices on hooks or fun. The four bass guitars on the outro give the song that final punch that demands hitting the repeat button.
The live version of "I Miss You" on the B-side lacks the atmosphere of the single but the Cure-influence is still present; the rattle of bass guitar over double bass gives the song a rougher edge.
"Always" is the classic driving song, the one that makes you slam on the gas and drive top speed down an open stretch of highway, singing along at the top of your lungs and feeling all is right with the world.