CCM Magazine's Review on their debut album:

After listening to Relient K's self-titled debut, listeners will likely never think of Marilyn Manson, Scott Baio or the popular movie Back to the Future in the same way.

Influenced by such bands as MxPx and Ghoti Hook, Relient K's strong harmonies make it more musically accessible than most punk bands. The pop culture references help, too, starting with "Hello McFly." Now, wishing one were Michael J. Fox may seem like covetous behavior to some, but what's so wrong about wanting to go back in time and erase one's mistakes? "My Girlfriend" describes Marilyn Manson as one seeking victims whom he may devour: "Marilyn Manson ate my girlfriend/Satan consumed her mind, and he may do it again." Other songs explore an assortment of themes, as on "Softer to Me," which deals with the struggles of life: "Life, could you be a little softer to me." "Everything Will Be" explores the goodness of God. (You're on your own for the Scott Baio reference!)

These four Ohio men are steeped in pop culture, and on Relient K they demonstrate that things familiar to their generation can be a window into meaningful life lessons.