Relient K - Forget and Not Slow Down

[Blake Solomon]

Relient K – Forget and Not Slow Down
Record Label: Mono VS. Stereo / Jive Records
Release Date: October 6, 2009

This is it how it should always happen. Relient K, a band once known for quirky little pop culture references peppered with mild God-isms, is now a pop-rock powerhouse. With more former members than current ones, the band has somehow outlasted every complication, including 2007’s absolutely terrible output Five Score and Seven Years Ago. That abomination’s only silver lining is its sneak peeks at the joy within Forget and Not Slow Down. Singer Matt Thiessen has bounced back with the best choruses and most emotionally charged songs of his career. But what becomes most apparent during Forget and Not Slow Down is its cohesiveness, that indefinable feeling when everything is exactly where it should be. A first for the band, intros like “Oasis” and outros like “Flare” create brief moments of reflection before their counterparts continue the noble task of blowing us away. Lucky you, welcome to 2009’s Swan Song.

Instantly infectious, “Forget and Not Slow Down” starts with the words, “How many times can I push it aside? / Is it time I befriended all the ghosts of all the things that haunt me most?,” and it becomes clear that we are in for a personal (but thoughtful!) record. A certain level of intelligence is expected from Relient K at this point, so the real sigh of relief comes when Hoopes and Thiessen lead the charge into an explosively memorable chorus. Some formulas just work, and Forget and Not Slow Down’s mid-tempo, uplifting rock succeeds more triumphantly than you’d think. “I Don’t Need A Soul” adds a slowed-down bridge to the proceedings so that we can build up into a heavenly sugar rush. “Candlelight” is an Mmhmm song on steroids with its tinkling percussion and oh-so-light backing vocals. We couldn’t have asked for a more pleasing introduction.

But let’s be honest, these aren’t really wacky left turns for the band. It’s hard to make something stand out after 10 years of doing small rewrites in the same essay. What makes these “better” than Relient K’s other works is the band’s steadfastness in creating each song’s mood. “Savannah” is all at once the band’s lightest and heaviest fare. Abstractly picked guitar and Thiessen in hushed tones means it could all erupt into another radio ready chorus, but instead the mood stays subdued. We’re completely in their hands, following along in awe. “This Is The End” catapults from an antsy piano ballad into the album’s loudest, punk-est number. Thiessen has a bite in his vocals that he has of late kept under lock and key: “You’re not the first thing in my life that I’ve loved and lost / Yeah I’ve done worse things that I might be less inclined to merely just shrug off.” In the same way that we tip-toed behind “Savannah”, we fist pump and burn s**t to the ground while “This Is The End” smashes around. A classical-ish piano part then connects “This Is The End” with closer “(If You Want It)”, and don’t be alarmed if you have no idea what to expect. Pop-punk bands rarely create actual drama, but on first listen a happily anxious vibe will overtake you while Thiessen tones himself down over a grand string section. Is he going to unleash or what? He croons, “I’ve been convincing myself that I’m worthwhile / Cause I’m worth what I’ll convince myself to be.” And then it happens, right?

You’ll find out soon enough.


Recommended If You Like: House of Heroes, Switchfoot, graciousness, The Rocket Mae, fastidiousness


www.myspace.com/relientk

[samlowry09]

cool, good for relient k.

[Meeze]

I am really stoked for this album! I really liked "Five Score and Seven Years Ago" I mean, it is one my favorite album from them. what about it made it an abomination?

[Matthew Tsai]

Relient K is an abomination

[loj]

call me excited.

[Matthew Tsai]

call me excited.
Hi, excited.

[Zach-Attack]

I'm pretty stoked for this album. Can't wait to pick it up

[Jarv1350]

Very excited for this album. I've enjoyed everything they've put out so far and don't plan on this being any different.

[intricate-eyes]

I'm even more excited for the album after reading this review.
Relient K never lets me down.

[Debut_Fin]

i'm a huge fan of The Rocket Mae

[:-)]

I'm going to their concert next month... not for them though. For Copeland.
I should probably check this out and educate myself on their music first... lol

[runningohfive]

Great review, I like Relient K. I loved "Mmhmm", but not so much "Five Score and Seven Years Ago". I'm excited to hear this one.

[mcalphabet]

i'm a huge fan of The Rocket Mae
You too???

[Gregory Robson]

Solid disc.

[zubinmoosa]

Wow, I wasn't looking forward to this that much but this review made me very excited

[S9Dallasoz]

I will enjoy, but can't say I agree that the last record was "terrible". (Thought it was their best yet).

[Blake Solomon]

I will enjoy, but can't say I agree that the last record was "terrible". (Thought it was their best yet).
it's poop i say, poop!

[S9Dallasoz]

it's poop i say, poop!
I need you here! I Need you now!
So, it had little staying power, but some tracks, o, they were just swell.

[TSLROCKS]

Can't freakin wait for this! Love Relient K

[TSLROCKS]

I did love Five Score

[LastDeclaration]

If this truly is better than Mmhmm, then I'm preparing myself for some AOTY material.

[LastDeclaration]

I like the HOH in the RIYLs, also. Criminally underappreciated band.

[denissuxx]

Very very good album.

[Chris Fallon]

This album might be the best disc they have recorded. The first few songs just keep getting better, and Matt's lyrics get more profound as the record comes to a close. Love how the final three tracks blend together between light pop, more heavy thematic material and finally a softer ballad by the end. Really great album I expect anyone who digs Relient K or great pop music to back wholeheartedly.

[Chris Fallon]

And Blake, where'd you hear they were releasing this on Jive? I haven't seen that anywhere, not even on their official site.

Edit: And Five Score was not an abomination ... don't really get how it was so terrible at all, really. To each his own, ya know, but I don't get it.

[Cue the Sun]

I'm pretty excited to hear this. Great review, Blake.

[maxl92]

Can't wait for this album to come out! I love this band and everything they do.

[Gregory Robson]

I will enjoy, but can't say I agree that the last record was "terrible". (Thought it was their best yet).
I totally agree with you Dallas. 100 percent.

[Gregory Robson]

And Blake, where'd you hear they were releasing this on Jive? I haven't seen that anywhere, not even on their official site.

Edit: And Five Score was not an abomination ... don't really get how it was so terrible at all, really. To each his own, ya know, but I don't get it.
Well said Chris. I really think it's a solid disc.

[Blake Solomon]

And Blake, where'd you hear they were releasing this on Jive? I haven't seen that anywhere, not even on their official site.

Edit: And Five Score was not an abomination ... don't really get how it was so terrible at all, really. To each his own, ya know, but I don't get it.
http://www.antimusic.com/news/09/sep/02Relient_K_Go_Jive_For_New_Album.s html

http://www.indievisionmusic.com/2009/09/05/relient-k-with-jive/

http://skopemag.com/2009/09/01/relient-k-signs-to-jive-records

there's also a link on the album's wikipidia page

[therookielot]

I'm exciteder after reading this review

[irishpunk14]

i think you were far too harsh on five score and seven years ago, i loved that record. other then that it sounds good.

[Kurt Retenauer]

I think I'll like this, actually I know I will. And I don't think Five Score sucked by any means, just not a good follow up to MmHmm. But, then again, what could have followed up to that? Perfect pop punk record. I think Five Score gets a bad rap because it was following up to a perfect record. Anything less than perfect would have been a disappointment. But, place that before MmHmm in their releases, and it's definitely more well received.

[deezee]

Relient K is an abomination
:-d

[gr33ndayfr3ak]

If this truly is better than Mmhmm, then I'm preparing myself for some AOTY material.
Yes, this.
Though I doubt that'll be happening since that's one of my favorite albums of all time.
Guess we'll se though.

[xJesusFreakx]

I'm so pumped for this album... And, this is the second site I've seen allude to some kind of something at the end of the album. I want this album so badly.

[Viva Sonata]

i'm a huge fan of The Rocket Mae
Goot Avary sounds soooooo good on this album.

[denissuxx]

there's also a link on the album's wikipidia page

:hitself:

/asshole commen tshitting on wikipedia

[WhoSaidThat?]

Relient K is an abomination
Relient K is Da Bomb... ination.

[zachff]

Never could get into this band beyond their singles. Guess I'll have to give this a listen

[inthemidst]

It really is a great album.

[Blake Solomon]

:hitself:

/asshole commen tshitting on wikipedia
so now any external link that's connected to wikipedia is also bullshit?

[xName Takenx]

it's poop i say, poop!

Agreeing that Five Score was an abomination makes me even more excited about this album, because I could also not stand Five Score

And Blake, where'd you hear they were releasing this on Jive? I haven't seen that anywhere, not even on their official site.

Edit: And Five Score was not an abomination ... don't really get how it was so terrible at all, really. To each his own, ya know, but I don't get it.

to each their own indeed

[blindrider529]

Didn't want to keep reading after after I read "2007’s absolutely terrible output Five Score and Seven Years Ago." That pretty much ruined any chance of me caring about the reviewers opinion.

I did anyway, and I want to the album ASAP. Mostly solid review :-D

[Chris Fallon]

http://www.antimusic.com/news/09/sep/02Relient_K_Go_Jive_For_New_Album.s html

http://www.indievisionmusic.com/2009/09/05/relient-k-with-jive/

http://skopemag.com/2009/09/01/relient-k-signs-to-jive-records

there's also a link on the album's wikipidia page
Weird, they aren't listed on the label's roster, I wonder why.

[jwoody]

SO pumped for this

[Alex DiVincenzo]

Nice review. Album is good.

[Blake Solomon]

Didn't want to keep reading after after I read "2007’s absolutely terrible output Five Score and Seven Years Ago." That pretty much ruined any chance of me caring about the reviewers opinion.

I did anyway, and I want to the album ASAP. Mostly solid review :-D
only taking my opinion when you agree with it, although you haven't even heard it yet. you could be a politician!

[popdisaster00]

I actually liked five score, so this should be great

[Blake Solomon]

Weird, they aren't listed on the label's roster, I wonder why.
yeah, it seems like a mostly distribution deal, and all those sites say shit like "in conjunction" so who knows what that actually means. that's why i put MvS first, because it still seems like they're doing most of the legwork.

[thebuffalo]

i think the jive thing is mostly a distribution kinda deal, i don't think they had anything to do with the recording process at all

this album hovers around the goodness of mmhmm and may end up being their best album ever...only time will tell for sure

[oncedarkness]

I believe that RK had more than "mild God-isms" in their earlier days such as:

"Never underestimate my Jesus, you're telling me that there's no hope, I'm telling you you're wrong."

I love them for it, just sayin'

[Blake Solomon]

I actually liked five score, so this should be great
yah, i think people are forgettign the line after it where i say that that record is like this record's baby brother that just threw up carrots and peas. they are similar, this is just that style being realized.

[beazer32]

my most anticipated of the year. really really looking forward to hearing this.

[James RE Hughey]

This band seems to want to put out lackluster albums just so their next release blows people away when it truly is good. Either the band can not be consistent or this is a good marketing strategy, either way this review has me excited.

[adumb]

One time I gave Matt Thiessen a four leaf clover before a show. In return, he gave me an awkward chuckle. Good times.

[fightinirish217]

Wow, nice review. Totally stoked to hear this soon, could be my favorite of '09. I can feel it.

[fanberlinboy]

I started out really NOT excited for this at all. Then I heard the title track and got pretty excited. I just got more excited from this review. Can't wait.

[SilenceBrokenTT]

With more former members than current ones, the band has somehow outlasted every complication, including 2007’s absolutely terrible output Five Score and Seven Years Ago.

What?!? I loved this album... :(

[NeededYouMost]

wow, 90%
I don't read reviews from this site anymore though, they are usually too bias

[SpyKi]

I can't wait for this album! I have to disagree with Five Score being terrible though, I loved it. Faking My Own Suicide is my favourite Relient K song ever.

[Gregory Robson]

I can't wait for this album! I have to disagree with Five Score being terrible though, I loved it. Faking My Own Suicide is my favourite Relient K song ever.
I'm a sucker for that song too.

[thebuffalo]

wow, 90%
I don't read reviews from this site anymore though, they are usually too bias
name a person in the whole world that writes an unbiased review.

it isn't if we have biases, but rather who has the best bias?

[alann]

Aoty.

[3eb23]

This album might be the best disc they have recorded. The first few songs just keep getting better, and Matt's lyrics get more profound as the record comes to a close. Love how the final three tracks blend together between light pop, more heavy thematic material and finally a softer ballad by the end. Really great album I expect anyone who digs Relient K or great pop music to back wholeheartedly.
That sounds awesome

[uchiha]

so fucking excited for this, awesome review

[spansen]

so this just got me excited.

[Yellowcard2006]

goood review. And I am quite fastidiousness most of the time. I definitely will give this a listen.

[Yellowcard2006]

wow, 90%
I don't read reviews from this site anymore though, they are usually too bias

What score is the correct score? 75%? 16%? 88%?

[ashiex3]

I'm very excited to hear this album.

[cscwell107]

FUCKING WANT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

x

[Nick Le]

I wouldn't say that Five Score was terrible, but it definitely wasn't up to par with the other albums. While it is my least favorite, I still find that I do enjoy a lot of the songs on the album. Relient K is my favorite band and this review made me even more excited for this record. It'll be cool to see Hoopes and Thiessen sing the chorus together. I know you didn't mention this, but I'm hoping the other guys, especially Warne do some vocals on this album too. Great review too, can't wait for my pre order.

[FRAMEY]

Can't wait to get this, so jealous. What's happening with Jason's plan for us all to hear new releases at the same time?

[patheticmind]

So stoked for this album!

[Nick Le]

And I didn't know this was being distributed through Jive along with MVS. Good for them!

[denissuxx]

so now any external link that's connected to wikipedia is also bullshit?

Nah, I was just being facetious :-)

[topher465]

I might have to check this out. Its amazing how much they changed from "I am gonna wear a pink tux to the prom"

[SpyKi]

I might have to check this out. Its amazing how much they changed from "I am gonna wear a pink tux to the prom"
I love that song.:-d

[threepunchjim]

I might have to check this out. Its amazing how much they changed from "I am gonna wear a pink tux to the prom"
haha i actually wore a pink tux yesterday. thought of them when i picked it up at salvo.

you know, it's funny, it didn't get as much attention as you might think.

[March_Faster!!]

I'm glad to see you gave it such a high score, but, "Five Score and Seven Years Ago" was by no means a terrible album. Then again, I could be bias because I absolutely love these guys. They can do no wrong!

[DanielJames]

wow, 90%
I don't read reviews from this site anymore though, they are usually too bias
It's pointless to look at the percentage. It's just a number. The actual review itself is what should be looked at. I don't think the reviews are all that biased...

[DanielJames]

I'm so excited for this album, especially after reading this review! I grew up listening to them way back when they had their first EP and have supported them ever since. They're from my hometown so I have to represent!

[trappedintime]

But... but... I loved Four Score... Either way, I'm so anxious for this release. It's gonna make or break my number one on my aoty list.

[Indoor Living]

So excited for this release. Relient K never fails to impress. Thiessen is a gifted, gifted man.

[irthesteve]

Good review except calling Five Score an "abomination," really? Absolutely ridiculous statement

[Julia Conny]

I absolutely love this album.

Nice one, Blakester.

[stereokiller]

whoa. early review is early.
a
ewfoiaewjfoi soo stoked.

[ilovesofie]

This made me a lot more excited! And I do agree about Five Years...being an terrible album for Relient K. After all these years it didn't really felt like a progression from their previous efforts.

[Max_123]

I'm liking what I hear from this review, although I enjoyed Five Scores

[stealthpeng]

edit:: (darn quoting didn't work) in regards to 'faking my own suicide'
Have ya'll heard the original version of the song? It's 10x better, imo. I love the lyrics either way, though.

[XLT917]

So excited for this album, but five score was awesome, A grower I admit (even when they are my favorite band), but awesome nonetheless.

[imtimwhoareyou]

I'm a sucker for that song too.

That, and any of their acoustic versions... They're incredible.

Blake, what didn't you like about their last album?

[iIi]

I am really stoked for this album! I really liked "Five Score and Seven Years Ago" I mean, it is one my favorite album from them. what about it made it an abomination?
I don't know what Blake thinks, but for me "Five Score" felt like "MMHMM"'s ugly step child B-sides. Well, maybe not that bad... If it truly is what Blake claims, I'm excited for this.

[imtimwhoareyou]

“Candlelight” is an Mmhmm song on steroids with its tinkling percussion and oh-so-light backing vocals. We couldn’t have asked for a more pleasing introduction.

Any time Mmhmm is mentioned in a comparison to Relient K music, you know you have some good music. That album is absolutely phenomenal.

[cupcakelove]

Yeah, this review has made me extremely pumped, whereas before I was like, excited but not really. I like Mmhmm better than Five Score... but I don't think Five Score... was that terrible....

[awakeohsleeper]

Was Five Score really that bad? I liked it.

[thebuffalo]

yeah, it seems like a mostly distribution deal, and all those sites say shit like "in conjunction" so who knows what that actually means. that's why i put MvS first, because it still seems like they're doing most of the legwork.
considering that Matt is basically running MVS, of course they are doing most of the work ;)

[superBMRuth]

i'm now very interested in hearing this. good review.

[jesse_hitz]

for jesus freaks only

[blindrider529]

only taking my opinion when you agree with it, although you haven't even heard it yet. you could be a politician!
I didn't "take" your opinion about their last full length because I have personal experience with it, I enjoy good music, and I'm not deaf! haha no offense of course!

I don't actually trust your opinion on the new album either (I have verrrrry little trust at all in other people's opinions about music I haven't heard...not just you), but just seeing a review in general (let alone a postive review from someone who didn't even like their last album) just makes me more excited that the album will be out soon.

:-D It was a decent review with just one bad opinion mixed in there!

[cereal4life]

for jesus freaks only

Judging by the amount of people on AP who aren't Christians who like them, I'd say you are utterly and completely wrong.

And Blake, you call Five Score... an abomination? I'll give you an abomination. To your head. With my fist.

[11:11]

Love the band, but I didn't enjoy Five Score at all. Sounds like this will be just fine though.

[batmannj]

Reading this review got me even more excited that I already am. Although I will say that Five Score was not terrible, I really enjoyed that record too.

[HometownHero]

So stoked for this. One of my most anticipated

[jesse_hitz]

Judging by the amount of people on AP who aren't Christians who like them, I'd say you are utterly and completely wrong.

And Blake, you call Five Score... an abomination? I'll give you an abomination. To your head. With my fist.
hahaha dude that was funny.............not really go listen to your lame music.

[FaceLixeMurder]

"The Rocket Mae" excellent, can't wait to hear it.

[blankets]

Glad to hear this album is great. Can't wait for it.

[bke37699]

Relient K is an abomination
just so you know, you are basically saying that blake solomon is an idiot and his review is bull.

[jesse-k]

i cannot wait.

[Matthew Tsai]

just so you know, you are basically saying that blake solomon is an idiot and his review is bull.

Not even gonna bother explaining the stupidity of this post.

[OurLadyCoolbean]

what was wrong with Five Score? I loved it.
you saying that makes me a little skeptical towards your high rating of the album, but then again its RK so im sure ill love it

[Chris Fallon]

yeah, it seems like a mostly distribution deal, and all those sites say shit like "in conjunction" so who knows what that actually means. that's why i put MvS first, because it still seems like they're doing most of the legwork.
I figured, I was only asking because I was just shocked they went to Jive on a major. They got mishandled on Capitol, and Jive wouldn't do much better, so glad it's just a distro.

[mms13]

very much looking forward to this

<3 Relient K

[Blake Solomon]

That, and any of their acoustic versions... They're incredible.

Blake, what didn't you like about their last album?
i didn't like the songs

[Blake Solomon]

Judging by the amount of people on AP who aren't Christians who like them, I'd say you are utterly and completely wrong.

And Blake, you call Five Score... an abomination? I'll give you an abomination. To your head. With my fist.
talk dirty to me

[imtimwhoareyou]

i didn't like the songs

Your next review should have no scores, and it should consist of, "These songs were okay, I guess," or "These songs are really good!" Something along those lines, at least.

[Blake Solomon]

Your next review should have no scores, and it should consist of, "These songs were okay, I guess," or "These songs are really good!" Something along those lines, at least.
i'd rather it just be a picture of me drooling or something

[alexiamaria]

Nice review although I wouldnt go as far as to say five score was an abomination.it had some good songs,but it was pretty mediocre in my opinion.
Really excited for this though

[ExplodingStereo]

I have to be honest: the opening paragraph pissed me off a little.

a band once known for quirky little pop culture references peppered with mild God-isms Mild? Go listen to their debut album again, man. That thing is COVERED in God-isms compared to the rest of their albums (specifically "Wake Up Call" and "My Girlfriend") Maybe I'm reading into it too much, but I just remember the Christianity in their lyrics being huge when they first started.

the band has somehow outlasted every complication, including 2007’s absolutely terrible output Five Score and Seven Years Ago
Again, maybe it's just the wording, but I can't agree with you at all. I thought Five Score was their best work yet and really showcased everything I love about the band: great, quirky pop-punk with deep lyrics.

Other than that, pretty good review. Can't wait to hear this; do you know if they're going to stream it on MySpace or something?

[jusscali]

Five Score was useless fluff, the band is far better than anything that was on that record. I'm gonna love this record, I can't wait

[Zachals]

five score was great guys. forgiven, faking my own suicide....deathbed? those songs were excellent!

of course, mmhmm was better

[Gaugzilla]

Not even gonna bother explaining the stupidity of this post.

I love how much you actively seek out Relient K posts just so you can say over and over how much you don't like them. You're cool, we get it.

[SpyKi]

Five Score was useless fluff, the band is far better than anything that was on that record. I'm gonna love this record, I can't wait
Faking My Own Suicide is the best song they've ever made imo.

[elayguns]

Five Score was pretty bad. It has moments... but I agree. Thanks for the good review.

[Mjk07]

Five Score was easily one of their best right up there with Two lefts Dont Make a Right... actually every relient k cd has been great

other then youre opinion on Five Score and Seven Years Ago this review make me VERY excited for the CD

[rkchristi416]

Oh man.
Stellar review.
I cannot wait for this record.

[Brissona]

pumped

[doppelganger]

five score was a huge let down personally. lasting value is pretty low. this new cd sounds promising

[Ryzenfall]

Damn excited for this record. The live tracks sounded fantastic.

I actually like everything they've put out to varying degrees, but I'm confident that this will definitely blow their last effort out of the water.

[mar_]

This review just made me excited for the album. It comes out in a week and a half, right?

[Troggy]

Couldn't read past the first few lines, Five Score was anything but abominable. Nice try though.

[Freshman15Davey]

Relient K is an abomination
Take that back!!! ha

[CarouselBoy]

well I was already looking forward to this release after hearing the single, but this review just gets me excited for it. I haven't been excited for Relient K since Two Lefts Don't Make A Right. I liked Mmmhmm pretty good and didn't bother getting the last one. Makes me feel young again. Great live band too.

[Blake Solomon]

Couldn't read past the first few lines, Five Score was anything but abominable. Nice try though.
boom baby! we keep trying so that one day we will suceed!

[imtimwhoareyou]

i'd rather it just be a picture of me drooling or something


Try it!

[chris1152]

Abomination - a thing that causes disgust or hatred.

Five Score was definitely not the best album RK put out (I'm sticking with Mmhmm) but it was definitely a very solid CD and far from being an "abomination". That word would be better left off describing work from brokeNCYDE, Millionaires, Hinder, and Creed.

[TBSowns524]

I loved MMHMM but really never got into Five Score. I'm glad to hear that this is so good, but I recall Five Score being pretty well hyped around here, too. I remain skeptical.

[xJesusFreakx]

Question: How does "Forget and Not Slow Down" compare to the rest of the album? I absolutely love that song, so if the rest is on par, this will probably be in my top 5 albums of the year.

[jusscali]

Faking My Own Suicide is the best song they've ever made imo.
well different strokes. I prefer every song off Mhmm to that

[Matthew Tsai]

I love how much you actively seek out Relient K posts just so you can say over and over how much you don't like them. You're cool, we get it.
I don't, I have an obligation to answer my quoted messages that show up on my dashboard thing.

[*crying stars*]

I liked Five Score and Seven Years Ago, and apparently it was just another step to get to a place where Relient K could fully flourish as a band.

I am incredibly excited for this album release.

[SpyKi]

well different strokes. I prefer every song off Mhmm to that
and opinions continue to baffle me. The only songs off Mmhmm I think come close to it are Be My Escape and When I Go Down.

[seraph1214]

I love this band. Thank God they're still around and making awesome music.

[timb89]

Hi, excited.
i guess its better than saying "color me excited".

[Matthew Tsai]

i guess its better than saying "color me excited".
True. And once again, sweet avatar.

[theherox]

The Rocket Mae? That's hilarious in so many ways. But do you want to know what's not hilarious? How could you think 5 Score is so terrible?!

[Blake Solomon]

The Rocket Mae? That's hilarious in so many ways. But do you want to know what's not hilarious? How could you think 5 Score is so terrible?!
WHAT AM I THINKING????

[xtianheadbanger]

This band has not done a bad thing.
Although I am one of those peoples who loved the pop-punk and "Godisms." My favorite will always be Anatomy.
Still like what I've heard so far. Cannot wait.

[danasaurus R3X]

love relient k. cant waaait

[timb89]

True. And once again, sweet avatar.
it will never change.

[COD4223]

are you kidding me about "five score and seven years ago"? you must be kidding. that album is soooo rad. i actually place it in front of "hmmhmm", but just barely.

maybe you're thinking of "two lefts dont make a right"?????? cuz that one needed some work.

anyone correct me if i'm wrong.......

[all time (joe)]

relient k is so awesome.
i dont get why this reviewer hated their last album.
that was my favorite relient k album

[ericsounds41]

I loved Five Score.. and I'm very excited for this new album.. My most anticipated for this year.

[threepunchjim]

are you kidding me about "five score and seven years ago"? you must be kidding. that album is soooo rad. i actually place it in front of "hmmhmm", but just barely.

maybe you're thinking of "two lefts dont make a right"?????? cuz that one needed some work.

anyone correct me if i'm wrong.......
nah dude two lefts is premium rk. no faults.

[beazer32]

are you kidding me about "five score and seven years ago"? you must be kidding. that album is soooo rad. i actually place it in front of "hmmhmm", but just barely.

maybe you're thinking of "two lefts dont make a right"?????? cuz that one needed some work.

anyone correct me if i'm wrong.......
it's called "mmhmm"

corrected.

[growingfungus]

Five Score was useless fluff, the band is far better than anything that was on that record. I'm gonna love this record, I can't wait

the epic 11 minute, multi-hundred layered track "deathbed" was "useless fluff"?

[Blake Solomon]

are you kidding me about "five score and seven years ago"? you must be kidding. that album is soooo rad. i actually place it in front of "hmmhmm", but just barely.

maybe you're thinking of "two lefts dont make a right"?????? cuz that one needed some work.

anyone correct me if i'm wrong.......
nope, i mean 5 score

[Matthew Tsai]

nope, i mean 5 score
And your opinion is correct.

[jusscali]

the epic 11 minute, multi-hundred layered track "deathbed" was "useless fluff"?
Yes

[Chris Fallon]

for jesus freaks only
Haha, dude I'm an atheist and Relient K is one of my favorite bands. They write great pop music that contains upbeat melodies and hopeful/optimistic lyrics. The faith side of it all is listener perspective.

[SpyKi]

Haha, dude I'm an atheist and Relient K is one of my favorite bands. They write great pop music that contains upbeat melodies and hopeful/optimistic lyrics. The faith side of it all is listener perspective.
Seconded.

[littlebeav]

EDIT: I am dumb.

[oshyjay]

Dude, Relient K is great. Matt's lyrics are great; even if you don't agree with what he writes about you have to admit he's very talented at saying what he wants to.
I completely disagree about their last album being terrible though, my favorite is Mmhmm but I really liked Five Score. I'm stoked to hear Forget's gunna be a keeper as well.

[rawspinner]

I jumped on the relient K bus when they were coming out with two lefts. Although I do have the previous records. IMO, mmhmm was the best thing they put out. I like a bunch of songs on five score but some of the more poppier songs ruined the cohesiveness of the album for me.

Blake, what else didn't you like about five score?

[Blake Solomon]

I jumped on the relient K bus when they were coming out with two lefts. Although I do have the previous records. IMO, mmhmm was the best thing they put out. I like a bunch of songs on five score but some of the more poppier songs ruined the cohesiveness of the album for me.

Blake, what else didn't you like about five score?
other than the songs? nothing.

[rawspinner]

other than the songs? nothing.
I guess what I meant was what did you not like about the songs

[ind1ekid]

Cant wait for this after reading that! Really loved Mmhmm, :D

[thebuffalo]

are you kidding me about "five score and seven years ago"? you must be kidding. that album is soooo rad. i actually place it in front of "hmmhmm", but just barely.

maybe you're thinking of "two lefts dont make a right"?????? cuz that one needed some work.

anyone correct me if i'm wrong.......
you're wrong. the s/t needed some work. mmhmm is way better than 5 score.

[gold3nratio]

I am at a point now where I almost wish I had never listened to any of their early work (all of the cheesy, terrible lyrics and overly religious, yet trying-to-be-funny overtones). But 6-7 years ago, I enjoyed it. Now, even their more mature works like MMHMM still seem very trite, simple, and annoyingly cheesy.

I'll give this a try. Here's hoping that they've changed a lot from what they once were. Hopefully if they've kept any religious lyrical content, it has been un-cheesed, otherwise I hope it's gone.

[Blake Solomon]

I guess what I meant was what did you not like about the songs
the notes and arrangements.

sorry for being a dick, but it doesn't matter. this is that album but better, more realized. take what i like about this record and reverse it and that's what i hated about Five Score. That was kinda the whole point of the review.

[rocknopoppycock]

The titular track "Forget and Not Slow Down" is absolutely titillating. It's on the band's MySpace page, and I swear I'm responsible for about 2,000 of the 77,000+ plays so far :). Warning: super catchy.

[Blake Solomon]

after reading this for the millionth time (narcissism!), i wonder if i've truly done this record justice. they truly have outdone themselves here.

[jesse_hitz]

Haha, dude I'm an atheist and Relient K is one of my favorite bands. They write great pop music that contains upbeat melodies and hopeful/optimistic lyrics. The faith side of it all is listener perspective.
not that i really care if their christian or not but im my opinion they are awful but that's just my opinion i can respect the success they have had. Most of the people i know that like them are hardcore Christians who don't do anything because it's a sin.

[rawspinner]

the notes and arrangements.

sorry for being a dick, but it doesn't matter. this is that album but better, more realized. take what i like about this record and reverse it and that's what i hated about Five Score. That was kinda the whole point of the review.
its cool I realize you might want to keep the focus on this album and I respect that, I guess I never got into Five Score either and I wanted to see what someone else had to say. Maybe message me if you wouldn't mind talking more about that record.

[Sak]

This thread is tearing Relient K fans apart... nice one Blake!


p.s 5 scores is awesome, but mmhmm is amazingly awesome + great

[Blake Solomon]

not that i really care if their christian or not but im my opinion they are awful but that's just my opinion i can respect the success they have had. Most of the people i know that like them are hardcore Christians who don't do anything because it's a sin.
sweet jesus, that couldn't be farther from MY truth. I think religious affiliation is irrelevant with what the band is doing now, and that's just another testament to how far they've come.

[nerdvglc]

Great review, I like Relient K. I loved "Mmhmm", but not so much "Five Score and Seven Years Ago". I'm excited to hear this one.
same here. i hope blake's right and this really is better. i can't even listen to five score all the way through, it's just not done well imo.

[Stankewich]

Hmm... I kinda thought that Five Score and Mmhmm were both good in their own respect. To me, Five Score seemed to be deeper and I thought the range of work was greater. Either way, they both got a ridiculous amount of play. Very excited for this album.

[Chris Fallon]

sweet jesus, that couldn't be farther from MY truth. I think religious affiliation is irrelevant with what the band is doing now, and that's just another testament to how far they've come.
Yep, completely agree -- sounds like something I would have said if I had reviewed this.

[SuchAPerson22]

Excited for this!

[Praetor]

I have to be honest: the opening paragraph pissed me off a little.

Mild? Go listen to their debut album again, man. That thing is COVERED in God-isms compared to the rest of their albums (specifically "Wake Up Call" and "My Girlfriend") Maybe I'm reading into it too much, but I just remember the Christianity in their lyrics being huge when they first started.


Again, maybe it's just the wording, but I can't agree with you at all. I thought Five Score was their best work yet and really showcased everything I love about the band: great, quirky pop-punk with deep lyrics.

Other than that, pretty good review. Can't wait to hear this; do you know if they're going to stream it on MySpace or something?
Pretty sure that "absolutely terrible output"is not code for anything.

[gy.haney]

Great review Blake. I love RK and given the fact that they teamed up with John Feldmann on a few of these tracks is evening more exciting.

[MILFCORE]

I am really stoked for this album! I really liked "Five Score and Seven Years Ago" I mean, it is one my favorite album from them. what about it made it an abomination?
Same here. That was the album that got me into Relient K.

Anyways, this review just got me even more stoked for the new album.

[konvalbr]

I miss how they used to be, just not the same relient k i once knew and loved. they don't draw me in anymore.

[d00d81that]

I'm so incredibly excited to hear this.

[brokenmixtape]

Haven't listened to them since the early years. I will definitely look into purchasing this.

[RelientOwl]

Relient K has been my favorite band for years, and Matt Thiessen is my total musical influence.
A few things:
1. Five Score was a great album. It wasn't the best, but it definitely wasn't an abomination! If you want anything 'bad' from Relient K, check out All Work & No Play. It's not exactly ear candy, but it shows how much Relient K has matured as cliche as that sounds.
2. I've listened to the previews at http://bit.ly/8NT0m and they are amazing. I am so ready for this album. Ever since I received the first single and posted it to youtube (yeah, that was me, imsoboredidk) i have been REALLY pumped. And I think this album will be amazing.
3. I'm also a big Owl City fan, and when I heard Matt on the new tracks on his album, he sounded amazing. I knew that FANSD would be amazing. Does anyone else think that Terminals sounds very influenced by Adam Young?
4. The Rocket Mae...:-d

[xapplexpiex]

Blake, do you mean The Rocket Summer? I never heard of The Rocket Mae. Or are you trying to say it's like a mix of both bands? This review makes me want to check out Relient K. I heard a song by them a couple years ago, and I wasn't too impressed. I'll take another listen.

[radxbandit]

Hmm... I kinda thought that Five Score and Mmhmm were both good in their own respect. To me, Five Score seemed to be deeper and I thought the range of work was greater. Either way, they both got a ridiculous amount of play. Very excited for this album.
Agreed. You can't tell me that Deathbed isn't an absolutely beautiful song, I'm not even Christian and it moves me every time I hear it. I think some of RK's best songs are on Five Score, but I appreciate Mmhmm more as an album.

Anyways, I love the only song I've heard from this album, the release can't come soon enough.

[thecomingweak]

these guys never disappoint. looking forward to the new record.

[Blake Solomon]

Blake, do you mean The Rocket Summer? I never heard of The Rocket Mae. Or are you trying to say it's like a mix of both bands? This review makes me want to check out Relient K. I heard a song by them a couple years ago, and I wasn't too impressed. I'll take another listen.
ima let you figure it out when the album drops

[xapplexpiex]

ima let you figure it out when the album drops
Hah, sorry. At first I thought it was a typo.

[fightinirish217]

Amazon 30 sec previews now available from main page! Sounds awesome.

[drudo182]

I stopped reading this after you called the last album awful.

Sorry.

[Chris Fallon]

Hahaha I love how people don't get Blake's joke, The Rocket Mae.

[xapplexpiex]

Hahaha I love how people don't get Blake's joke, The Rocket Mae.
Well now I do.

[cereal4life]

hahaha dude that was funny.............not really go listen to your lame music.
I thoroughly enjoy five of the eight bands you list in your profile. Let's listen to lame music together!

[cereal4life]

talk dirty to me
Hey, that wasn't what I meant! Haha I was kidding anyway. Twas a good review, Blake, but I do enjoy Five Score....I'm yet to gets my hands on this bad boy. Hanging out to hear it!

[jesse_hitz]

I thoroughly enjoy five of the eight bands you list in your profile. Let's listen to lame music together!
sounds good :)

[FueledByFrodo]

Incredible.

[ohitisjess]

I am so excited. ajskdadahkjd.

[Anthonyg7654]

wow... who does ratings on this site. what?!?!?!??! .... what happened relient k you guys came a long way from the insane catchy witty christian band in mhmm..... drum tone in this cd is so lame... snare sound is so small ... your other drummer had a way better drum tone.... why do the guitar tones sound so thin??? the production of this sucks! this cd makes me so sad...... i really really love mhmm... and five score to.... haha but what happened i rarley hear a decent meldoy line on this cd... matt you wrote some of the most catchy original melody lines ive ever herd! what happened???? ahhhh i was waiting for a new batch of relient k songs to get into.... im sersouly sad =[ guess ill just keep listing to mhmm

[Anthonyg7654]

I miss how they used to be, just not the same relient k i once knew and loved. they don't draw me in anymore.
agree=[

[mxpx419]

I'm excited about the new album, but how can I listen to someone who thought their last album sucked! Blake, you need to find another job because reviewing music isn't your forte.

[mxpx419]

wow... who does ratings on this site. what?!?!?!??! .... what happened relient k you guys came a long way from the insane catchy witty christian band in mhmm..... drum tone in this cd is so lame... snare sound is so small ... your other drummer had a way better drum tone.... why do the guitar tones sound so thin??? the production of this sucks! this cd makes me so sad...... i really really love mhmm... and five score to.... haha but what happened i rarley hear a decent meldoy line on this cd... matt you wrote some of the most catchy original melody lines ive ever herd! what happened???? ahhhh i was waiting for a new batch of relient k songs to get into.... im sersouly sad =[ guess ill just keep listing to mhmm
I don't think that it's the actual musicians fault the music, like the drums, are toned down. That was probably done in the post production. But I do have of some of the same feelings as you, but I'm going to buy it and listen to it multiple times before I give my final verdict.

[MattRM]

wow... who does ratings on this site. what?!?!?!??! .... what happened relient k you guys came a long way from the insane catchy witty christian band in mhmm..... drum tone in this cd is so lame... snare sound is so small ... your other drummer had a way better drum tone.... why do the guitar tones sound so thin??? the production of this sucks! this cd makes me so sad...... i really really love mhmm... and five score to.... haha but what happened i rarley hear a decent meldoy line on this cd... matt you wrote some of the most catchy original melody lines ive ever herd! what happened???? ahhhh i was waiting for a new batch of relient k songs to get into.... im sersouly sad =[ guess ill just keep listing to mhmm
Um, you're listening to a very low quality stream... maybe you should reserve judgments on production until, you know, you hear the real thing? Also, if you only judge music on how "catchy" it is, then I think Relient K have outgrown you.

[mxpx419]

I will enjoy, but can't say I agree that the last record was "terrible". (Thought it was their best yet).
It was a really good album, I thought. The singability does not exist on "Five Score" like it does on "mmhmm", but "Five Score" is probably their best album with musicality. Their maturity shows and grows from album to album and I hope the new one doesn't let down.

[Blake Solomon]

I'm excited about the new album, but how can I listen to someone who thought their last album sucked! Blake, you need to find another job because reviewing music isn't your forte.
DO YOU WANT TO FIGHT ME?

[ohitisjess]

edit:: (darn quoting didn't work) in regards to 'faking my own suicide'
Have ya'll heard the original version of the song? It's 10x better, imo. I love the lyrics either way, though.

I love the original version too. It's here, if anyone wants to listen to it.
http://www.myspace.com/dwellonit

[mxpx419]

I miss how they used to be, just not the same relient k i once knew and loved. they don't draw me in anymore.
Are you 12?

[mxpx419]

DO YOU WANT TO FIGHT ME?
Don't sing it, just bring it!

[Blake Solomon]

Don't sing it, just bring it!
I HAVE SO MUCH TO BRING I'LL NEED TO RENT A TRUCK TO BRING IT ALL

[mxpx419]

I HAVE SO MUCH TO BRING I'LL NEED TO RENT A TRUCK TO BRING IT ALL
I'm gonna have to head down there and I will rain down in a godly f#@king firestorm upon you! You're gonna have to call the f*#king United Nations and get a f#*king binding resolution to keep me from f*&king destroying you. I'm talking about a scorched earth, motherf*#ker! I will massacre you! I WILL F#*K YOU UP!

[Blake Solomon]

it clearly says no tropic thunder reference threats in my contract. so you win.

[mxpx419]

Dangit! That was getting fun. I had to put in the Tropic Thunder quote. It's the first thing that popped into my mind after your last response.

Well, I hope this new album is as good as you say it is. The second time around on streaming and it's sounding better.

[!kELLEE]

i realize i'm pretty late on commenting here but Five Score... was not a bad album at all! it was one of their best i thought, just part of their natural progression as a band. not sure how you didn't like it if you like the rest of their stuff.

[Anthonyg7654]

Um, you're listening to a very low quality stream... maybe you should reserve judgments on production until, you know, you hear the real thing? Also, if you only judge music on how "catchy" it is, then I think Relient K have outgrown you.

i will agree wilth you on the low quality stream... but ive listined to alot of other bands streaming on this site...and yeah they sound quality so i donno? and when i listined to the track on myspace i though the same thing... and you dont outgrow good medloy lines... they grow into you.. ha ha.. im not saying it has to be catchy??... it needs to have good substance... and its somthing many bands are lacking... and judging from how they sounded before this just doesnt compare

[sunshinehigh75]

Relient K's been the equivilent to my morning cup of coffee for a while now,... the CD is Awesome, just like the band. I've been looking forward to this for a while now (:

[doppelganger]

pleasantly liking the album so far.

[Gautz]

This is album is actually really good... wasn't a fan before so it was a nice surprise!

[introduction]

this album is alot of fun. i really like candlelight.

[rockytopsw]

seems to be the trend with bands mellowing out and releasing mellow-type albums this year. happened with third eye blind too. love the sound though. i am and will forever be a devoted relient k listener. they have affected my life in so many ways

[jimmyqex]

seems to be the trend with bands mellowing out and releasing mellow-type albums this year. happened with third eye blind too. love the sound though. i am and will forever be a devoted relient k listener. they have affected my life in so many ways
I don't think Relient K is mellowing at all. This album has some pretty awesome rock songs on it.

[enh41491]

listened to the album stream, i am completely blown away.

[Blake Solomon]

I don't think Relient K is mellowing at all. This album has some pretty awesome rock songs on it.
agree to a point. i now notice the "fast" songs more because there are less of them. but it's still a big part of their overall style

[FiveIronFlores]

i think it's good, but it's neither here nor there ya know?

[TERRABITHIA]

I listened to like 3 tracks off of it, and they were decent. Nothing ground-breaking at all though. I don't understand how they earn a good review from this album. Honestly, C'mon.

[Blake Solomon]

I listened to like 3 tracks off of it, and they were decent. Nothing ground-breaking at all though. I don't understand how they earn a good review from this album. Honestly, C'mon.
maybe you'll see if you listen to the whole album. how can you question me when you willingly admit to having such little knowledge of the album?

if you go through it all once and hate it, that's fine, that's your right. but until then...

[live.]

I listened to like 3 tracks off of it, and they were decent. Nothing ground-breaking at all though. I don't understand how they earn a good review from this album. Honestly, C'mon.
It only took me 3 tracks to get completely pulled in. I never really got into Relient K, but wow.

[TERRABITHIA]

I will indeed listen to the rest. I've never been one to like Relient K. I've enjoyed their singles from almost all their albums. For sure I will check this new one out fully though.

[jimmyqex]

agree to a point. i now notice the "fast" songs more because there are less of them. but it's still a big part of their overall style
I agree with you to a point. I agree that there are fewer "fast" songs, but that doesn't mean they aren't rock songs or that they are mellowing. They don't go and load this album with ballads or really pop-esque songs. There are a few, but they've always mixed it up...

[SilenceBrokenTT]

Such. A. Letdown.

[adrenalinerush1]

Sort of a different sound now. I'm digging it though, for real. Relient K never let's you down.

[marbles17]

Haven't stopped listening to it since first listen!

[metroid827]

I am really stoked for this album! I really liked "Five Score and Seven Years Ago" I mean, it is one my favorite album from them. what about it made it an abomination?

That's what I thought. It was a good album! Anyways, I'm really excited for this new one.

[pshh]

Relient K is a very consistent band I appreciate greatly. This album is very solid.

[MarkyMark1984]

i just went to amazon's site and it wouldn't let me buy the album yet... maybe i have to wait until midnight my time? so like.. 7 minutes?

[MarkyMark1984]

Just got it! yes!!!!!!

[differentrevolt]

RK is by far one of the most amazing things to ever make noise on this mediocre little planet that we live on. I give them props for being something that stands out above the rest of our worlds incompetence. Their music can only be described as one thing: love.

[tpnations]

$4 on Amazon? I'm in. Thought MmHmm was a surprisingly solid album, but never got around to listening to their last one.

[Rachel1984]

Solid disc.

Word.

[The Gryphonator]

"With more former members than current ones, the band has somehow outlasted every complication, including 2007’s absolutely terrible output Five Score and Seven Years Ago. That abomination’s only silver lining is its sneak peaks at the joy within Forget and Not Slow Down."

This pissed me off a lot haha. I think this is there best album. All of them are solid, but to call it absolutely terrible I can not believe how someone would think this.

The new album is also good. I feel its a bit boring at some points. And it just doesn't feel... "big" Idk I haven't blasted it in my car yet.... but we'll see. I need to give it a few more listens

[doppelganger]

im digging the cd. the last half is a lot better than the first imo. particularly the last 3 songs + savannah. five score had no lasting value on me. mmhmm is probably my favorite. i still dig tongue in cheek.

[NateFoundGlory]

One of my favorite albums of the year so far...wow. Seeing as this is the first time I've listened to a Relient K cd (ignoring the occasional single), this is a pleasant surprise.

[NateFoundGlory]

Also, rawr rawr rawr how could Blake hate 5 Score?! (I'm picking that up next)

[yoyostring]

this album is awesome.

[Sak]

not a fan of the intro's/outro's too be honost, but Sahara is fucking AWESOME

I love Therapy too -- but i'd rate this Cd below 5score/mmhmm and even bee's :(

[chriscolours]

I don't agree with this review thought it is well-written, to me this album is something I'm going to forget quick... it's very-very weak...

[SpyKi]

Also, rawr rawr rawr how could Blake hate 5 Score?! (I'm picking that up next)
5 Score is my favourite album by them, I was just listening to it again earlier.

[brwnhawaiin]

The lead singer cheated on his fiancee, and then wrote these songs alone in a cabin. His ex fiancee is a radio host on 95.5 in detroit. boycott Relient K!!!