The Album of a Generation: Celebrating Twenty Years of ’They’re Only Chasing Safety’ with Underøath

Picture it—the year is 2004. Spiky hair, skinny jeans, and studded belts are everywhere. Warped Tour is at its peak. Emo music hits the mainstream, and heavier music is on the rise as well. And, last but not least, a small Florida-based band called Underøath is about to release their fourth album.

Underoath's They're Only Chasing Safety isn't just an album; it's a masterpiece that truly altered the face of post-hardcore music. One of the most impressive things about this album has been its staying power. Even years later, TOCS remains a huge inspiration in the genre. The iconic gold-certified album has made its mark on countless bands and continues to resonate with listeners to this day.

This year, Underoath is celebrating twenty years of the timeless classic with a national tour, performing TOCS in its entirety, as well as a fan-voted set.

I arrived a little late to the sold-out show, just in time for Static Dress. I had seen the band once before so I was relieved to not miss their set. Despite a few minor technical difficulties, they exploded onto the stage, instantly capturing the hearts of the crowd. They have been around since 2018 and have been making waves in the scene with their unique blend of post-hardcore and nu-metal mixed with electronic elements. The member lineup includes Olli Appleyard (vocals), Sam Ogden (drums), George Holding (bass), and Contrast (guitar). Static Dress proved with this set that they were a force to be reckoned with, and I can't wait to see them headline someday!

Shortly after 9pm, the stage was set and we were greeted to a couch lit only by nearby lamps. Aaron Gillespie took the stage first, having a seat on the couch as he began singing "Some Will Seek Forgiveness, Others Escape." The other members slowly took the stage during the song, ending with Spencer Chamberlain as the band exploded into "Young and Aspiring."

"this is my panic, this is my call to arms..."

Underoath, made up of Spencer Chamberlain (vocals), Aaron Gillespie (vocals, drums), Christopher Dudley (keyboard, synthesizers), Timothy McTague (guitar), Grant Brandell (bass), and James Smith (guitar), formed in Florida in 1997. Originally a Christian-based band, they officially abandoned that approach in 2018. Underoath have released a total of nine studio albums, with They're Only Chasing Safety and Define the Great Line being the most successful.

"Can you feel your heartbeat racing? Can you taste the fear in her sweat?"

Launching right into "A Boy Brushed Red Living in Black and White" after a brief greeting to the adoring crowd, Underoath continued their assault with track after brutal track, reminding us of the greatness of TOCS. As the last notes of "I'm Content With Losing" rang out, we were far from satisfied. Luckily, Chamberlain and Co had more in store for us! The encore contained a handful of their more recent work, including "Teeth" and "Generation No Surrender."

This tour truly has something for everyone, whether you're a 20-year (or more) Underoath fan, or are somehow only just discovering them now. Their passion for their craft is still alive and well after all of these years, and their incredible live performance only further cements them as one of the greatest bands of our time.