Relient K - Forget and Not Slow Down

Artist: Relient K

Album: Forget and Not Slow Down

Release Date: Oct. 6th

Label: Mono vs Stereo.

Since the beginning of music, songwriters have been writing about break-ups. Different writers have taken different approaches perhaps but there is a core feeling that seems to be universally understood. A couple weeks ago I asked John Cooper of Skillet about "It's Not Me It's You" off their new album "Awake". It is an angry break-up song but he hoped it would prove therapeutic to some. On this album Matt Thiessen shares a different but no less valid take on break-ups that not only once again shows off his songwriting prowess but offers up songs that listeners can connect to and may also prove to be quite therapeutic in their own way.

This is a really seam-less album that makes great use of intros and outros to encourages the listener to forgo skipping around and just sit back and enjoy. That is not to say that their are not some distinct stand-out on this album. I am sure many listeners will be tempted to skip to "Sahara" to hear some very special guests offer their voices to a great song. Other songs like "Therapy" has become a personal favorite of mine and features Ethan Luck who recently left Demon Hunter to join Relient K full time.

"Forget and Not Slow Down" is yet another album that shows off the production genius of Mark Townsend. Earlier this month saw the release of the new EP from Abandon Kansas which also proved to be expertly produced. The members of Relient K speak of the Townsend in quite glowing terms. Founding member Matt Hoopes says "He's family".

This latest release has indeed proved to be every bit worthy of the anticipation that is has inspired in their fans. It has been said that Relient K has as many or more former members as current members but along the 12 years they have been chugging along they have taken their music to a place that is perhaps more grown up but still maintains that charm that long time fans have come to love.

Rating: 9.5/10