March Mayhem Round 1: The Graduate vs. Relient K

[Anton Djamoos]

Who is your favorite band out of these two? Be sure to read the replies for other users' cases for each band.

[theguy77]

hahahaha ohh this one hurts. relient k = huge nostalgic guilty pleasure, but the graduate are just too damn good as far as their style of music goes, anhedonia was the only debut pop-punk album released after 2004 that i even liked, every part of that band is so talented too. plus, they're such great guys, and corey's given me so much valuable advice for my own music ambitions over the past two years. the graduate wins this in a landslide even though i have a spot in my heart for relient k.

[duhpunk]

pushpits for jeebus

[hailthewarrior]

i went with relient k because ive been listening to them since i was 12.

[theguy77]

screw you garrett and the fact we cant agree on anything pop-punk :-p

[acfrue]

Relient K by far for me.

[3eb23]

RK no brainer

[boxingwithstars]

judging by everything else i listen to, i should love Relient K... but i don't. Anhedonia is a really decent album though, so i think i'll have to give my vote to The Graduate.

[irthesteve]

RK is consistently good, and while Graduate have a great album out, it's only one compared to far more

[TalkShowsOnMute]

The Graduate, even though they have a lot less material.

[theguy77]

if relient k wins, it'll be because not enough people paid attention to the graduate like they should have. the graduate is such a beautiful gem in such an ugly era in pop-punk (or, more aptly, the death of pop-punk), its not even funny how much better a band they are through and through. i cant think of a single way relient k or thousands of other bands do better, theyve got every category covered completely and dexterously, from talent to pop-sensibility to complexity to ingenuity. fortunately they wont be pop-punk on their next album, so they wont be compared in such mongoloid fashion to inferior/more gimmicky bands for much longer.

[3eb23]

You think the Graduate is a way better band than Relient K?

[Broclee]

The Graduate, and I own every Relient K album.

[Chris Fallon]

Anhedonia was my top album of 2007, and I fell madly in love with The Graduate's pop sound.

However, I have always been a Relient K fan and continue to enjoy their pop hooks to their fullest potential. I had to give it to them simply because I listen to them more... but this was fucking hard.

[theguy77]

You think the Graduate is a way better band than Relient K?

oh easy. relient k are my junk food band, and no other band could do a better job to take that niche away from them, but come on its not even close.

[3eb23]

relient k is so much more than a "junk food band". that's so disappointing to hear.

[notoaststereo]

i have no idea why i voted the graduate. i think i confuse it for gratitude.

[Drew Beringer]

Relient K

[theguy77]

relient k is so much more than a "junk food band". that's so disappointing to hear.

PUNK INFLUENCED CHORDS/DRUMBEATS
+ OPENLY CLICHE, VAIN ATTEMPT AT TONGUE-IN-CHEEK/HUMOROUS LYRICS
+ DON'T EVEN TAKE THEMSELVES SERIOUSLY
+ DOING EVERYTHING I WOULD HAVE WANTED A BAND TO DO AT AGE 13
___________________________________ ___________________________________ ___
NOSTALGIC JUNK FOOD

[wheresadalia]

The Graduate <333
i don't mind relient k, but i've never listened to any of their albums as much as i have Anhedonia

[theguy77]

i have no idea why i voted the graduate. i think i confuse it for gratitude.

its okay, son. you made the right choice. :pet:

[TheOtherAndrew]

Giving it to the Graduate because that bubble thing was fucking stupid.

[hiya]

I would kind of love to see the Graduate pull through on this one.

[katieissweet]

I love both bands, but I listen to The Graduate a lot more so I went with them.

[zackL&R]

i love the graduate but gotta go with relient k... they're the main reason i ever picked up a guitar.

[anthonydarko]

Relient K for me, their music is just good fun to listen to.

[Broclee]

Giving it to the Graduate because that bubble thing was fucking stupid.
I think you're confusing Relient K with Cartel...

[theguy77]

the end result of this thread will again confirm my notion that this site doesnt even get its own genre right.

[anthonydarko]

Giving it to the Graduate because that bubble thing was fucking stupid.
What bubble thing?

[TheOtherAndrew]

I think you're confusing Relient K with Cartel...
Bleh.

[Chris Fallon]

Giving it to the Graduate because that bubble thing was fucking stupid.
Hahaha I hope you're being sarcastic, dum dum :-p

[TheOtherAndrew]

Hahaha I hope you're being sarcastic, dum dum :-p
Nah, just one of my worse moments.

[theguy77]

Hahaha I hope you're being sarcastic, dum dum :-p

what IS the bubble thing?

[Chris Fallon]

Nah, just one of my worse moments.
I still love you, buddy

what IS the bubble thing?
Cartel recorded their last album in a big bubble for all the world to see on a show for MTV.

[TheOtherAndrew]

Everybody has to have one stupidityonparad calibur moment. I have taken this opportunity to use mine.

[theguy77]

Cartel recorded their last album in a big bubble for all the world to see on a show for MTV.

ahh right. sounds like a massive gimmick to me.

so whats good man?

[Iwudstilldie4u]

Anhedonia was my top album of 2007, and I fell madly in love with The Graduate's pop sound.

However, I have always been a Relient K fan and continue to enjoy their pop hooks to their fullest potential. I had to give it to them simply because I listen to them more... but this was fucking hard.

I completely agree, but I voted for The Graduate for the same reason. This was such a hard choice!

[theguy77]

Everybody has to have one stupidityonparad calibur moment. I have taken this opportunity to use mine.

hahahaha

mine was probably:

carlo marx: "no love for elvis costello?"
me: "i havent really gotten to hear much outside of 'blue christmas' and 'hound dogger'"

:hitself:

or, when i first got here and i was trying to argue against ben AND vinh among others that jesse lacey was the most amazing lyricist ever to walk this earth hahaha.

[Chris Fallon]

Everybody has to have one stupidityonparad calibur moment. I have taken this opportunity to use mine.
Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahah aha

That comment just made my night, oh shit hahaha

[TheOtherAndrew]

Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahah aha

That comment just made my night, oh shit hahaha
:bow: I do what I can.
hahahaha

mine was probably:

carlo marx: "no love for elvis costello?"
me: "i havent really gotten to hear much outside of 'blue christmas' and 'hound dogger'"

:hitself:

or, when i first got here and i was trying to argue against ben AND vinh among others that jesse lacey was the most amazing lyricist ever to walk this earth hahaha.
hahaha. All I've checked out of Costello's is This Year's Model and I hate myself for it. That album is amazing.

[Adrian Villagomez]

Relient K

[onthefringe]

relient k all the way.

[drudo182]

Easily Relient K. Still one of my favorite bands.

[ohheroine]

voted rk only because ive seen them so many times

[ootsctrlaltdel]

couldn't get into the graduate's anhedonia (which i have) but RK captures me with every album so my vote goes to relient K!

[Imperfektion]

Tough one, but I went with Relient K.

[fadedmemories]

Such a shame The Graduate had to be up against Relient K.

[Clark]

The Graduate only has one album, so no go at this point for them.

[speakhandsforme]

The Graduate and it's not even close.

[Nick Le]

Relient K is and has been my favorite band for a long time and they got me into music. I think you can guess who I'll go with. Every release of there's is great and I am so excited for new music.

[emkvetwin]

The Graduate. i have always enjoyed Relient K a lot, but The Graduate have blown me away since the first time i heard them. wish more people had taken advantage of that $1.99 (or whatever it was) deal, because they're missing out.

Anhedonia was my top album of 2007, and I fell madly in love with The Graduate's pop sound.

However, I have always been a Relient K fan and continue to enjoy their pop hooks to their fullest potential. I had to give it to them simply because I listen to them more... but this was fucking hard.

for the record, i discovered this site because of this band and your review. i couldn't find a good review of Anhedonia after i heard a clip of "Sit and Sink" and wanted to know more. thanks to Google, i found and read your review and felt like i should give it a chance, then bought the album and saw Tate's "Best New Band of 2007" comment. once i got hooked on that, i registered here.

[Spenny]

Hard one, since I like both, but I gave it to Relient K since I've listened to them for longer.

[theguy77]

man thats so dumb relient k are being favoritized because theyve been a band longer, thats just ridiculous. simple question, who writes better music?

[Undue Noise]

I listen to The Graduate more so I gotta give it to them.

[permanentdan]

i love matt and can't wait to see that dude again, but i had to go with the graduate. sorry matthew!

[awakeohsleeper]

Relient K are too good.

[Ryzenfall]

Relient K of course. I can't vote enjoyable over classic/enjoyable.

[Broden Terry]

One of the hardest polls. I'm leaning toward The Graduate?

[midtown4657]

"Marilyn Manson Ate My Girlfriend". C'mon. and "Hello McFly" & "Softer To Me". that takes me back. i loved them. i dunno why i never really kept up.

[Hamlet]

Relient K, for their great songwriting, and sense of humour.

[DaveZeroZero]

The Graduate for me, every time.

[theguy77]

The Graduate for me, every time.

you sir, are a winRAR

[juliaisnotcool]

The eighth-grader in me wants to vote Relient K, but when it comes down to it there is a VERY short list of bands I would pick over The Graduate. Easy choice.

[Sherrice]

This isn't fair. lol Poor the Graduate is gonna get creamed.

Obviously I voted for them.

[Keagan Ilvonen]

The Graduate, never really got into Relient K.

[kazuma_ootaro28]

Anhedonia >>> anything Relient K has ever put out. I actually hated RK before they released Mmhmm.

[theguy77]

yeah and then, horror show > anhedonia so thats even MORE music thats better than relient k.

[LiquorAndDick]

I really couldn't decide for awhile with this one. I enjoy both bands immensely but then I considered the fact Relient K have been pumping quality albums out for awhile now and The Graduate only have one (but Im sure there will be many more).

[piaffeprncess98]

Oh this is tough. I love Relient K's subtle progression musically, but I love The Graduate. And they both put on amazing live shows.

[Heart-A-Tact]

I love Relient K too much.

[DaveZeroZero]

you sir, are a winRAR
:highfive:

[Facemelter42]

both of these bands are fantastic, but i went with relient k becuase ive been listening to them since 7th grade

[Everiggs]

The Graduate. Relient K has never really done much for me.

[topher465]

I don't get all the buzz around the graduate. RK.

[superichie]

GOD do I hate Relient K. How are they still around?

[cscwell107]

The Graduate is awesome but Relient K is one of my all time favorites so they get the nod.

[meghanlail]

Relient K for sure. I've been listening to them for as long as I can remember.

[theguy77]

bands dont win threads. nostalgia wins them.

half the posts in favor of relient k: "ive been listening to them since i was ___"

[fly_guy]

RK all the way! Fun times were had when listening/seeing them.

[live.]

Did The Graduate ever get picked up by a label?

[zubinmoosa]

Damn, this one is hard. Love Relient K, but Anhedonia was by far a better record than any single one Relient K have put out.

[WFUJerseyJon]

Relient K - happy, christian pop punk ftw.

[sammyboy516]

RK ftw

[taylerx0]

The Graduate is perfect. But they're not going to win this because they're not as recognized as Relient K. Relient K has some songs I like, but Anhedonia is one of my favorite albums. Loooove them.

[phoenixinflames]

Relient K have been around for way longer, but The Graduate's album is AWESOME.

[trappedintime]

relient k hands down. mhmm changed my life.

[Miss Heartcore]

I'm going with Relient K since they have more material for me to enjoy but The Graduate is definitely legit.

[batmannj]

bands dont win threads. nostalgia wins them.

half the posts in favor of relient k: "ive been listening to them since i was ___"
Well part of listening to a band is the nostalgia factor. It isn't enough sometimes to just release a great album, its about the emotions that you go through when listening to their music. Relient K has been getting their whole career and their last two full lengths have been excellent. Not that The Graduate is a bad band, they are most definitely excellent, but Relient K just consistenly delivers.

[color_coded]

Relient K

[ericsounds41]

Definitely Relient K..

[meghanlail]

bands dont win threads. nostalgia wins them.

half the posts in favor of relient k: "ive been listening to them since i was ___"
I do believe the polls are about AP users' favorite bands, not who is "the best band ever." The Graduate is a great band, but a lot of us grew up on Relient K and have emotional attachments to their music.

[MADSTA]

Relient K is fun, but The Graduate is so so good.

[desipunk7]

The Graduate

[Dirge07]

Rk Ftw

[JoeJealousy]

why isnt Relient K winning by more?

[xashkox]

why give the Graduate such a hard match-up? they totally deserve this.

[blimpcityhero11]

Love The Graduate, but I gotta give it to Relient K...

[DaveZeroZero]

Did The Graduate ever get picked up by a label?
Alas, no. They've got some new merch out to fund the recording of their upcoming album.

[altemose09]

relient k

[PenThrive]

Relient K.

[lucky#88]

absolutely the toughest choice thus far...i went with relient k cause they have been around forever and the graduate only has one album out...but they are both really good

[sidekicksuicide]

Relient K used to be my favorite band, but after the years and the letdown that was Four Score, it's just not happening for me anymore.

The Graduate, on the other hand, grabbed my attention. So based on right now, they got my vote.

[oncedarkness]

relient k all the way

[nickstetina]

The Graduate hands down for me.

[Broclee]

I don't understand the "they've been around longer" or "they only have one album out" arguments. It's about which band you like more. Quantity shouldn't really be the deciding factor there, it should be quality.

And I'm not saying "You're an idiot for voting _______," I'm just saying that putting quantity as the deciding factor is silly, base it off which band you enjoy more.

[atticusfinch]

Relient K! Easy choice. SO much fun.

['59]

this is a really tough one...i'll say Relient K, just because it brings back some good memories.

[chronomic]

Despite how awesome The Graduate is, Relient K is really the better band... albeit the scale is biased just in simply how long one has existed to the other. And if you honestly don't think RK is any good, then try listening to Mmhmm again. It's modern pop perfection; and it's what, their 4th full length release? hardly any bands can say that their 4th is their best, if they make it that far at all. Their Christmas EPs have been able to make those horrendous songs awesome and they constantly are putting out music. All the dudes own their instruments and can sing circles around so many other bands. The Graduate only have one EP that is OK, and one full length that has the potential to be something special, but they simply haven't been given enough time for it to be clear on whether they truly are better. Give The Graduate 10 more years as a band and then you can judge evenly... not that I don't think they can do it :)

although this is a poll on favorites, not which is better... so all of what i just said is basically meaningless haha

[Stupendous_Man]

Despite my love for The Graduate, I'm going to have to go with Relient K. They have the longevity factor on their side.

[MKEcasey]

Overall, Relient K would have my vote. But it is only because they have history with me. The Graduate is still too new for me. Do this again in 5 years, and maybe the graduate will get my vote instead of Relient K.

[fightoffyrdmns]

The Graduate. IMO there's no other option, the band is too good.

[XchrisX]

The Graduate should be winning.

[dejadevilgod]

The graduate.

[ifelttheride]

i voted for the graduate

[Gatorjd]

Relient K is one of my favorite bands of all time, so this one wasn't hard at all for me. They've been consistently putting out great albums for years now.

[Burn That Shit]

i voted for the graduate

haha

[DaveZeroZero]

i voted for the graduate
If you hadn't I'd be worried.

[IceAge/HeatWave]

anthedonia.

[newfoundmichael]

oh easy. relient k are my junk food band, and no other band could do a better job to take that niche away from them, but come on its not even close.

totally, the graduate are so much more talented. "junk food band" is a term i've never heard before, but it sums up how i've always felt about Relient K

[what_ever]

Relient K both for body of work and nostalgia purposes.

[theguy77]

i voted for the graduate

good choice.

[antlerboy182]

Relient k by far!!! Great band period.

[Art0ftheDead]

<P>The Graduate is amazing live, where as Relient K just kind of bores me.</P>
<P>Also The Graduates music is way better!</P>

[theguy77]

Well part of listening to a band is the nostalgia factor. It isn't enough sometimes to just release a great album, its about the emotions that you go through when listening to their music. Relient K has been getting their whole career and their last two full lengths have been excellent. Not that The Graduate is a bad band, they are most definitely excellent, but Relient K just consistenly delivers.

yeah but still the band writing the better album from the get go should be given credit even if they havent had time to establish that long term connection with people, dont degrade the prodigy just so you can stick with the veteran because a lot of times the prodigy is better than the veteran. say relient k only released one album as well. i'd be willing to bet the graduate would win against any of their albums except mmhmm and even then it'd be close. theres too much bias in this thread and not enough mediated decision. "well the graduate are amazing but relient k have been here longer." thats poorly justified logic and a poor excuse not to vote for the more talented band :shrug:

some people do legitimately like relient k more though and thats fine. im just talking about the people who are on the fence.

I do believe the polls are about AP users' favorite bands, not who is "the best band ever." The Graduate is a great band, but a lot of us grew up on Relient K and have emotional attachments to their music.

i know that but the thread looks really lopsided and disappointing coming from someone who started listening to both bands around the same time and was able to assess both without bias. again relient k are fun and addictive as shit, but i cant take them seriously, nor can i be enthralled by the ingenuity or musicianship in any proximity to the way i do with the graduate. plus the graduate are pretty fun and addictive too so its not like im even prioritizing one characteristic over the other. the graduate just does what relient k does, and then does a hell of a lot more.

[Theseventhson]

I never really like Relient K, so I went with the Graduate.

[nickstetina]

Damnnn, wanted to see who The Graduate might have gone against next.

[theguy77]

also i dont see how you could have heard both bands substantially and say "relient k by farrrrr!!!1!!!1"

[moore182]

PUNK INFLUENCED CHORDS/DRUMBEATS
+ OPENLY CLICHE, VAIN ATTEMPT AT TONGUE-IN-CHEEK/HUMOROUS LYRICS
+ DON'T EVEN TAKE THEMSELVES SERIOUSLY
+ DOING EVERYTHING I WOULD HAVE WANTED A BAND TO DO AT AGE 13
___________________________________ ___________________________________ ___
NOSTALGIC JUNK FOOD

Have you listened to the last 3 records (mmhmm, five score, nashville tennis ep)?
Apparently you haven't.
Thank you.

[Keagan Ilvonen]

i voted for the graduate

hahaha

[c_rob2700]

The Graduate. I do enjoy Relient K though and Matt is one of the nicest dudes

[Dr. Cool]

The Graduate. Hands down.

[Alex DiVincenzo]

Gotta go with the K

[vegan_sweetie]

relient k all the way.

[blindedddd]

When I listened to the MMHMM album by Relient K I skipped all around threw the whole cd because there were songs I liked and songs that I just didn't care for.I But with The Graduate I can honestly say that I've been playing Anhedonia in my car for almost two years without skipping a song as embarrassing as it sounds. This band is incredibly talented, overlooked, and under appreciated for their musical and performing talent. Although I haven't seen Relient K live, the guys from The Graduate seem way more down to earth and are amazing live. The Graduate reminds me of the fucking brilliance and beauty that is left in music in today's society.

[owiseone35]

Had to go with The Graduate.

[youngfresh]

whoever said relient k is a junk food band is completely false.. while they do make some un-serious songs try listening to "deathbed" by them.. it has such great song writing in it and after you hear that, there is no way you can make that statement.

[taylerx0]

Ugh The Graduate should be winning this. One of the best bands out there right now.

[TheHoldSteady]

I went with Relient K because I haven't really ever listened to The Graduate.

[3eb23]

When I listened to the MMHMM album by Relient K I skipped all around threw the whole cd because there were songs I liked and songs that I just didn't care for.I But with The Graduate I can honestly say that I've been playing Anhedonia in my car for almost two years without skipping a song as embarrassing as it sounds. This band is incredibly talented, overlooked, and under appreciated for their musical and performing talent. Although I haven't seen Relient K live, the guys from The Graduate seem way more down to earth and are amazing live. The Graduate reminds me of the fucking brilliance and beauty that is left in music in today's society.

why would you say this having only met one of the bands?

[ShayxLA]

Definitely The Graduate. Their music is just deeper to me and I love it. The Graduate gives me this feeling of love inside that is amazing. Their music is more complex and I think it takes more talent to do what they do. I do, however, love are que.

[mixxxtape]

I agree with youngfresh. I think that the best part about Relient K is that they can have a good time with their music ("Sadie Hawkin's Dance", "A Penny Loafer Saved is A Penny Loafer Earned") as well as write amazing, inspirational songs such as "Forgiven" and "Hope For Every Fallen Man". Through the years and member changes, this band had stuck to their roots when it comes to beliefs and such.
Vocally, instrumentally, rhythmically, and of course, lyrically, Relient K is absolutely incredible, and I believe that they are completely worthy of being voted "best band". They've won that honor already in my eyes!:]

[miranda<3]

The Graduate >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Relient K

hang out with The Graduate. go to one of their shows. they are genuine guys and they put on an amazingly energetic show.

[caitlinlee]

How is Relient K winning this? Not okay.

[batmannj]

yeah but still the band writing the better album from the get go should be given credit even if they havent had time to establish that long term connection with people, dont degrade the prodigy just so you can stick with the veteran because a lot of times the prodigy is better than the veteran. say relient k only released one album as well. i'd be willing to bet the graduate would win against any of their albums except mmhmm and even then it'd be close. theres too much bias in this thread and not enough mediated decision. "well the graduate are amazing but relient k have been here longer." thats poorly justified logic and a poor excuse not to vote for the more talented band :shrug:

some people do legitimately like relient k more though and thats fine. im just talking about the people who are on the fence.



i know that but the thread looks really lopsided and disappointing coming from someone who started listening to both bands around the same time and was able to assess both without bias. again relient k are fun and addictive as shit, but i cant take them seriously, nor can i be enthralled by the ingenuity or musicianship in any proximity to the way i do with the graduate. plus the graduate are pretty fun and addictive too so its not like im even prioritizing one characteristic over the other. the graduate just does what relient k does, and then does a hell of a lot more.

I totally understand you reasoning sir. I feel like that sometimes with some other music too (like Straylight Run losing to Say Anything in the other poll. I really enjoy both of these bands in this poll, but for me, Relient K's music enthralls me a bit more, and they have been a significant influence on me and the music that I listen to. I totally understand feeling the other way though.

Yeah I think that if you are on the fence and say "Relient K because they have been around longer" is pretty silly to be honest. But yeah I totally get where you are coming from.

[jtsnazzy]

The whole point of these poll is about who is your favorite, not who AP finds most technically or creatively superior. With that said, Relient K.

[john.sibbitt]

I had the privilege of hearing about these guys from the time they recorded their first EP with Seth Henderson at AMP'T studios.

Their guitar and melody work are amazing. I don't know many Graduate songs you can't sing along to.

I keep waiting for a new release.

[leviputnam]

the grad

[ExplodingStereo]

i went with relient k because ive been listening to them since i was 12.

This.

[Brett3]

Relient K. I love The Graduate though.

[ryheeles]

Been listening to Relient K for longer than I can remember. Had to give it to them

[DaveZeroZero]

This.
that's not a reason.

[pleutocrat]

with all of the music i listen to, i'm not sure why i can't stand relient k, but i do. the graduate ftw

[Specs4]

The Graduate = Awesome

Relient K = Lame

Awesome > Lame

The Graduate > Relient K

Q.E.D.

[DaveZeroZero]

The Graduate = Awesome

Relient K = Lame

Awesome > Lame

The Graduate > Relient K

Q.E.D.
I like the way you think, good sir.

[SeanEBoy2686]

canton's own Relient K

[unwritten_law9]

The Graduate by a landslide in my case.

[3eb23]

The whole point of these poll is about who is your favorite, not who AP finds most technically or creatively superior. With that said, Relient K.

this is the troof

[ThisIsNotDan]

hmm, I love mmhmm but the Graduate have alotta potential

[iheartmusic043]

I've been listening to Relient K for I don't even know how many years and Be My Escape and Who I Am Hates Who I've Been are still two of my absolute favorite songs. I listen to those songs all the time.

[caress me down]

I'm actually pretty surprised at these results. I thought RK would be much less popular on AP

[ExplodingStereo]

that's not a reason.

I voted because I've listened to them since I was 12, which is what I quoted, is a very valid reason if you ask me. And I only like The Graduate, I own pretty much every Relient K album. That enough reason for you?

[jchar]

the graduate is amazing

[realt]

i think the graduate are an amazing band. i really like anhedonia the the horror show a lot actually

but

relient k has been a band ive listened to for a long time and they have certain songs that are just too good to not vote for them

but everyone should really check out the graduate they make really good music.

[timbedinosaur]

Relient K is definitely a guilty pleasure of mine

[ohitisjess]

Relient K because their music gets me through everything, and they've always been my favorite. :-)

[theguy77]

whoever said relient k is a junk food band is completely false.. while they do make some un-serious songs try listening to "deathbed" by them.. it has such great song writing in it and after you hear that, there is no way you can make that statement.

i have that album along with all their others, and have listened to it countless times, in fact i studied to it like every other night for a two month span of my senior year. nice try though.

deathbed is cute and fairly well orchestrated, but not their forte, that kind of thing has been done tons of times better (see: sufjan stevens. you might not think its similar but it is.) and its only something i listen to in context with the record. jefferson aeroplane is more the kind of closer i associate with relient k, and that song is swingy, bouncy, and catchy, but not deep. junk food.

[Tristan Needler]

Is there a "none of the above" option? ;-)

[Broclee]

Is there a "none of the above" option? ;-)
It's this crazy little thing called "not voting."

;-):-p

[whatthefruit]

Relient K. I'm not a Christian, but I still love all of their songs.

[GuitarR0cker1]

I voted for Relient K because they were one of the first bands I listened to. I still like one or two of their songs.

[moore182]

i have that album along with all their others, and have listened to it countless times, in fact i studied to it like every other night for a two month span of my senior year. nice try though.

deathbed is cute and fairly well orchestrated, but not their forte, that kind of thing has been done tons of times better (see: sufjan stevens. you might not think its similar but it is.) and its only something i listen to in context with the record. jefferson aeroplane is more the kind of closer i associate with relient k, and that song is swingy, bouncy, and catchy, but not deep. junk food.

Haha. You can't be serious. If Relient K wrote deathbad, I'm pretty sure you can associate the song with the band, Relient K.

And the fact that you say it's not deep when they are up against The Graduate is just as funny.

I have nothing against The Graduate...but If Relient K is junk food, then The Graduate is junk.

(P.S. I didn't vote for Relient because of Nostalgia, they are just infinite times better especially MMhMM and on)

[starjamgirl]

Bet Relient K will win, but i like The Graduate more.

[JesusFreak1989]

Relient K, for amazing lyrics, music, and their overall Christian message :) Awesome guys as well

[Cheesus]

yay

[DaveZeroZero]

I voted because I've listened to them since I was 12, which is what I quoted, is a very valid reason if you ask me. And I only like The Graduate, I own pretty much every Relient K album. That enough reason for you?
Having listened to a band since you were twelve does not qualify them as something, necessarily, that you would enjoy more than something relatively new (i.e. the Graduate). Enjoying them immensely from the age of 12, however, does. I just wish that people would make that distinction.

[lonelysuperstar]

mmhmm is an incredible album. they're one of maybe 3 or 4 bands that actually make the pop-punk genre sound interesting.

[lonelysuperstar]

cue the "omg you're so ignorant, how can you say pop punk is all the same" posts.

[Chris Fallon]

I would not hesitate to argue that Relient K is one of the best modern pop bands, if not the best.

Until I hear new stuff from the Graduate, I won't say they are near that stature since they could go in a completely different direction.

[fadedmemories]

Such a shame that The Graduate had to be up against Relient K.

[ExplodingStereo]

Having listened to a band since you were twelve does not qualify them as something, necessarily, that you would enjoy more than something relatively new (i.e. the Graduate). Enjoying them immensely from the age of 12, however, does. I just wish that people would make that distinction.

Alright, so, to split hairs even further to please you, I have listened to and enjoyed Relient K since I was 12.

[Troggy]

I have no idea who the Graduate is, nor will I ever care, but Relient K is one of the most consistent, hard working, likeable pop/rock bands that anyone talks about on here. It is only right that they move on.

[Broclee]

I have no idea who the Graduate is, nor will I ever care, but Relient K is one of the most consistent, hard working, likeable pop/rock bands that anyone talks about on here. It is only right that they move on.
...so you're voting between the two without having ever heard of one of them?

How do you have no idea who they are, they get talked about a good bit on here, more than Relient K it seems.

[Troggy]

...so you're voting between the two without having ever heard of one of them?

That would be a logical conclusion. To assume the majority of other votes come from people who carefully considered both options would be idiotic.

How do you have no idea who they are, they get talked about a good bit on here, more than Relient K it seems.

Because I don't chase after every little AP.net band of the week.

[DaveZeroZero]

Alright, so, to split hairs even further to please you, I have listened to and enjoyed Relient K since I was 12.
Thank you, I am now sated.

[theguy77]

I have no idea who the Graduate is, nor will I ever care, but Relient K is one of the most consistent, hard working, likeable pop/rock bands that anyone talks about on here. It is only right that they move on.

i love you man, but couldnt you just give the graduate ONNNEEE listen? even though i know it wont change your mind?

[Troggy]

i love you man, but couldnt you just give the graduate ONNNEEE listen? even though i know it wont change your mind?

For you...maybe. I don't hate the genre I just don't really have the need for any more new bands that play it, if you know what I mean.

[theguy77]

I voted for Relient K because they were one of the first bands I listened to. I still like one or two of their songs.

pshh one or two? im 18 and i still shamelessly listen to their whole discography haha

Haha. You can't be serious. If Relient K wrote deathbad, I'm pretty sure you can associate the song with the band, Relient K.

lol, i dont think its a bad song but that was a funny pun.

what im saying is that that sound is not relient k's forte becuase its on the ambitious side but unfortunately that orchestral-accompanied pop style has been done much better. their specialty is moreso a catchy, juvenile pop sound, which they do incredibly well, but unfortunately there are limitations.

And the fact that you say it's not deep when they are up against The Graduate is just as funny.

i wasnt talking lyrically, i dont think either band is at all impressive lyrics-wise. i was talking about the depth of the music and how good the musicianship/innovation is on every level. relient k uses power chords, throwaway leads, generally follows the chords with the bass, and uses a similar drumbeat for practically every song.

now here is the graduate:
-constant usage of delay on the guitars (an effect the utilize with more dexterity and in a much less gimmicky/over the top manner than the next band),
-impressive vocal arrangements/melodies/styles with a very adaptable singer who takes influence from a multitude of music styles (although matt thiessen has proven with the last full length that he can hold his own in that department),
-basslines that consistently take on a melody of their own and drive the music in the verses,
-a drummer who is very creative within the narrow confines of such a limited genre, and who is probably one of the most technically brilliant in the genre as far as keeping time and being rhythmically oriented (drumming is more than just who can put the fastest fills in their music; there are drummers, and there are MUSICIANS, and tim moore is one of the latter)

there are many layers to what make the graduate's sound impressive, which is incredibly rare for a pop-punk band, the only pop-punk album i can think of that i would consider to be deeper than anhedonia/horror show musically is say anything's IARB. whereas with relient k it's been basically one layer for their whole career, save for a few songs on five score and seven years ago.

[DaveZeroZero]

incredibad?

[theguy77]

For you...maybe. I don't hate the genre I just don't really have the need for any more new bands that play it, if you know what I mean.

yeah im the same way but the graduate are EASILY without ANY competition the best band in the genre to form after 2004, and they're better than almost all of the bands that formed even when the genre was good.

[Troggy]

yeah im the same way but the graduate are EASILY without ANY competition the best band in the genre to form after 2004, and they're better than almost all of the bands that formed even when the genre was good.

I listened to the songs 'Anhedonia', and 'Doppleganger' this is the band you are talking about, right? It doesn't sound like a pop/punk band really, especially the first one. 'Anhedonia' was a pretty boring song, and the vocalist is not very good. The second one was upbeat more like pop/punk but I waited for a hook that never came. If I had to pick one band post-2004 that played good pop/punk it would be Much the Same.

[DaveZeroZero]

I listened to the songs 'Anhedonia', and 'Doppleganger' this is the band you are talking about, right? It doesn't sound like a pop/punk band really, especially the first one. 'Anhedonia' was a pretty boring song, and the vocalist is not very good. The second one was upbeat more like pop/punk but I waited for a hook that never came. If I had to pick one band post-2004 that played good pop/punk it would be Much the Same.
Listen to "Justified" by them.

[Troggy]

Listen to "Justified" by them.

That wasn't on their purevolume, and I can't really get myspace to load at work. I can't say they don't have any good songs, but they only have one album. I already know I am not impressed with two of the songs on it, so that's probably enough for now.

[DaveZeroZero]

That wasn't on their purevolume, and I can't really get myspace to load at work. I can't say they don't have any good songs, but they only have one album. I already know I am not impressed with two of the songs on it, so that's probably enough for now.
I don't think it's on their myspace, either. That and Anhedonia are my two favorite songs of theirs, though.

[JSJ2]

Well, even though the polls are closed and Relient K is apparently the winner, I still have to throw my 2 cents in. For 'THE FANS OF' The Graduate (who was formed roughly in 2005) to be competing against 'THE FANS OF' Relient K (a band that has been around since 1998), I see it as a small victory for The Graduate to even have a third of the votes. I am a huge Graduate fan and although I never really got into Relient K, I know they make some great music. I think this was just a competition of how many fans each band has and it is obvious that Relient K will have more since they have been around 7 years longer than The Graduate. Just think about what The Graduate can accomplish in years to come... Good work guys! Keep the good stuff coming and keep reppin' the good ol' Sfield. haha.