The 2000s found many Christian punk/rock bands finding a fair deal of commercial success. Perhaps one of the most well-known members of this class is Relient K. Known for their playful wit, infectious melodies, and lead singer Matt Theison's friendly vocals, the band enjoyed significant success on Christian Rock charts throughout the 2000s. The apex of their success was their 2004 Gold Certified album, MmHmm. As that album turns 20 (pause here to weep for how old those who remember it coming out are now), we look back at some of its highlights.
"Be My Escape"
Perhaps one of the band's most well-known hits, "Be My Escape," was the melodic lead single of this project. While its moody guitar-riff opening is instantly recognizable, 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 reveals this as a desperate plea to a savior. We spend so much time wallowing in the consequences of our sins when true freedom and forgiveness are readily 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 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 the song I most remember hearing from the band around its release. Its aggressive riffs satisfy rock fans, while the catchy song blends with pop genres. The song's dynamics are incredible, with some laid-back reflective verses building into a bouncing shout of a rock chorus. The song is one of the most overt acknowledgments of our sinful nature and the need for change. In human relationships or our relationship with Christ, the song is a poignant call for acknowledging past mistakes and a sincere desire to do better in the future. The song holds up incredibly well 20 years later, sounding fresh 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 well-known track. Released as a single, the song's positive nature makes it a perfect celebration of life to be played on warm spring days with the windows down.
However, Relient K also delved into some serious subject matter. 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. With this release, the punk rock kids known for their witty lyrics have evolved into mature young adults, 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. Twenty 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!
NEW!BEHIND THE SONG
#1296 - Mary-Clair
A candid conversation about faith, vulnerability, and finding God
ADVERTISEMENT
NEW!MOVIE REVIEW Miracle
NRT reviews the new movie after attending the premiere
NEW!SERIES REVIEW
A Night At Wingfeather
We attended the show's premiere of the Angel Studios animated show
NEW!NRT LISTS
Worship Into 2026
Standout new worship releases that invite the Church to sing and reflect
NEW!THE CHH DROP
#261 - Gavin the Hotrod
What's new this week in Christian rap and hip-hop
