The 2000s found a lot of Christian Punk/Rock bands finding a fair deal of commercial success. Perhaps one of the most well known of this class is Relient K. Known for their playful wit, Matt Theison's friendly vocals, and infectious melodies, the band covered Christian Rock charts in hits throughout the bulk of the 2000s. Perhaps the apex of their success was 2004's Gold Certified album, MmHmm. As that album turns a whooping 20 years old (pause here to weep for how old those who remember it coming out are now), we take a look back at some of its highlights.
"Be My Escape"
Perhaps one of the band's most well-known hits, this song was the melodic lead single of this project. While it's moody guitar-riff opening is instantly recognizeable, the band showed their dynamics by quieting things down on the verses before exploding into one of their signature choruses. While some interpret the song in relational contexts, a deeper look at the lyrics reveal this as a desperate plea to a savior. We spend so much time wallowing in the consequences of our sin, when true freedom and forgiveness is easily waiting to be found in Christ. Among the great lyrics in the song come from the second verse: "I'm giving up on doing this alone now/'Cause I've failed and I'm ready to be shown how/He's told me the way and I'm trying to get there/And this life sentence that I'm serving/I admit that I'm every bit deserving/But the beauty of grace is that it makes life not fair." Because of its broadly relatable lyrics and impossibly fun melody, the song has proven to be one of the band's most enduring signature songs.
Who I've Been"
The other big hit from this record was "Who I Am Hates Who I've Been." This was probably the song I most remember hearing from the band around the time of it's release. It's aggressive riffs are hard enough to satisfy the rock side of fans, but the song is so catchy that it blends seamlessly with more pop based genres. The song's dynamics are incredibly, with some laid back reflective verses building into a bouncing shout of a rock chorus. The song's one of the most blatant I can recall about acknowledging our sinful nature and need to change. Whether in the context of human relationships or our relationship with Christ, the song works as a poignant call for acknowledgement of past mistakes and a sincere desire to do better in the future. The song holds up incredibly well 20 years later, sounding both fresh and yet making us long for the days when sonic styles like this were more common.
Deeper Cuts
The upbeat "High of 75" is probably the most known from among the rest of the tracklist. Released as a single, the song's positive nature makes for a perfect celebration of life, to be played on warm spring days with the windows down.
But Relient K delved into some serious subject matter as well. The contemplative "Let It All Out" and "When I Go Down" slowed things down musically so that the thematic depth could better take center stage. The punk rock kids known for their witty lyrics evolved into mature young adults with this release, and these songs offer some of their most introspective musings.
At the same time, songs like "I So Hate Consequences, "Which To Bury, Us or the Hatchet," and "Life After Death and Taxes" found the band exploring some of their grittiest and edgiest music yet.
All of this led to what is still argued to be the band's magnum opus. 20 years later, go back and revisit and remind yourself why Relient K was once considered one of the A-list names in Christian rock.
J.J. Francesco is a longtime contributor to the NRT Staff. He's published the novel 'Because of Austin' and regularly seeks new ways to engage faith, life, and community. His new novel, 'When Miracles Can Dream,' is out NOW!
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