The album's tone was influenced by the deaths of several people close to the band, including original guitarist Stefanie Sargent in 1992 and The Gits' vocalist Mia Zapata—who inspired its title and is depicted on its cover artwork—in 1993, although this was not intended as its general theme.

On June 27, 1992, four months before the release of the band's debut album Sick 'Em, 7 Year Bitch guitarist Stefanie Sargent died from drug and alcohol-related asphyxiation.

[6] After a six month break following her death, 7 Year Bitch recruited Roisin Dunne as their new guitarist and began touring the United States in 1993, attracting major label interest along the way.

[1][2][7] The band were getting ready to tour with C/Z Records labelmates The Gits when the latter's vocalist, Mia Zapata, was raped and murdered on July 7, 1993.

[16] Around a month prior to the album's release, 7 Year Bitch signed with the major label Atlantic Records, who assisted with its promotion.

[17] In July 1994, the band were shot performing "The Scratch" in Seattle for the 1995 film Mad Love;[17][18] the song, along with "Icy Blue", was also featured in the movie's soundtrack album.

[19] In August 1994, 7 Year Bitch filmed a music video in Seattle for "Hip Like Junk", produced and directed by Duncan Sharp.

Arion Berger of Rolling Stone gave the album a positive review: "Fast, funny and never completely satisfied, 7 Year Bitch epitomize [punk rock] and make noise like nobody else.

"[26] AllMusic critic Steve Huey praised the band's improved songwriting and musicianship, stating: "7 Year Bitch hasn't lost an ounce of passion [...] they've just learned how to channel it better.

"[21] Lorraine Ali, writing for the Los Angeles Times, positively noted the album's rhythm section: "Deep bass lines come off as enigmatic, then as menacing, making the tunes stick in the subconscious, while a jagged, buzzing guitar lends a rough edge.