What makes Smashes: The Best of Guardian by Guardian notable?

The album played a significant role in popularizing Christian rock during the late 90s, reaching notable chart positions and garnering critical acclaim within the genre. Its release helped solidify Guardian's legacy, influencing many upcoming Christian rock artists and contributing to the broader acceptance of faith-based music in mainstream culture. By the time 'Smashes: The Best of Guardian' was released in 1999, Guardian was consolidating their position as a prominent band in the Christian rock scene, following their breakthrough albums like 'First Watch' (1993) and 'Miracle Mile' (1994). This compilation not only showcased their past hits but also marked a pivotal moment as they transitioned into the new millennium, reflecting on their musical journey while setting the stage for future projects.