Human Biography
Who is Human?
Human was a short-lived but impactful Christian alternative rock band active in the late 1990s. With a gritty, groove-laden sound, the five-member group combined melodic hooks, distorted guitars, and thought-provoking lyrics to deliver a unique take on faith and life. Produced by Billy Smiley (of WhiteHeart), their debut and only album Out of the Dust was released on Organic Records in 1998.
The band lineup featured Randy Kinnett (lead vocals), Carl Sapp (guitars), Vic "Vixter" Sapp (bass), Dean Martin Vanderwoude (guitars, vocals), and Erick "Turtle" Garcia (drums). After years of playing secular music left bassist Vic Sapp spiritually empty, Human formed with a renewed purpose to glorify God through rock. As Vic shared in a 1998 interview, "About five years ago, after playing music in the world, for the world, I had an empty feeling... I vowed the rest of my life to make a difference through Jesus and music." The name reflected their humble outlook: "We picked the name Human because that's exactly what we are... we're not God in any way shape or form... we are only human."
Their sound, a fusion of edgy guitar work, groove-heavy rhythms, and earnest vocals, drew comparisons to 1990s alternative rock and well-produced Christian acts. Songs like "Read Your Mind," "I Can't Live," "Disguise," and a hidden cover of U2's "Bullet the Blue Sky" showcased their musical range. "Lemonade," a standout track also featured on the Mindy's Revenge compilation (a mid-90s Christian rock sampler) and accompanied by a music video, reminded listeners that Christ is present even in hard times. As Vic put it, "Everything is for a season - when life hands you a bag of lemons, MAKE LEMONADE!" Another track, "Fat Man's Delicacy," written by Carl Sapp, drew inspiration from Proverbs 23:1-3.
Vic said the band aimed for "songs that people could sing after hearing them once" and "songs that will stand the test of time." While some felt the album's polish softened its edge, the message and musicianship struck a chord with listeners. The group disbanded after 1998, with no follow-up release. Still, Out of the Dust remains a favorite among Christian rock fans for its sincerity, creativity, and gospel-centered purpose. As Vic summed it up, "Jesus is the only reason."