by Andrew Juelich

Created on: June 30, 2008

With thousands and thousands of bands on the scene today, finding one that steps out of what we know as normal and bringing something new to the stage is a difficult task. Well today is a good day because I've found just that. The band I am referring to is the Florida based Quintet Underoath. These boys have been brought to the ears with their 2004 release 'They're Only Chasing Safety,' a masterpiece of melodic heavy chords and bitter screeches that send a shot of inspiration down the spine. With a perfect mix of brawn and beauty, topping an album that released a whopping 350,000 albums is seen by many as an act of faith, well I'll be the first to tell you that these Christian rockers did just that, and in the act not only crushed my expectations, but literally changed my taste of music, my love of poetry, my life. This album virtually takes a whole new step forward in music. With an innovative mix of drums, guitars, and piano, this album shows that Christian Metal is no joking matter. With many believing this 2006 release to be to hard, to strong, one does not look deeper into the eyes of the beast that is Underoath. Within the lyrics are poetic messages of faith, courage, and the knowledge to know there's someone looking over us. They take an awful tool that is the gut wrenching scream, and turn it into something beautiful. These screams are that of a group that sends out a message. With the instruments put perfectly together we can also see the multi-talents of Aaron Roderick Gillespie on the drums and vocals. He lets out the voice of pure genius. Not only are hislyrics inspiring but also a perfect blend to the Underoath sound. With the live act just as good as the CD, I see the trouble Aaron faces in his attempt on creating the best sound out of his set and his voice, and this answers the question of whyUnderoath decided to head in the musical direction. As a musician myself, it's hard to look at someone else's work with awe and realize that what they have done is a masterpiece, yet with this album I have no problem in saying this. As i further my love for past Underoath albums, I can only hope and pray for the brilliance of more albums to come. As a believer of what Underoath has to say, i hope that their only misfortune, is that they have to much love and support from their friends, family, and fans. Overall with this album I give Underoath 9.9 out of ten, only with the expectation that some may find this new harder album, to hard.

Tracks to check: In Regards To Myself, Writing On The Walls, Everyone Looks So Good From Here, To Whom It May Concern

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