Underoath has made a name for itself as a pioneer in the world of metalcore. However, in 2013 the band embarked on its farewell tour leaving fans anguished. For almost 8 years the band laid dormant until now as it returns with its 8th studio album, Erase Me. The band is ready to prove its back with avengeance.
Formed in Tampa, FL in 1997, Underoath made a name for itself right from the start with its debut album Act of Depression (19919) followed by Cries of the Past (2000) and The Changing of Times (2002). Its an impact on the metalcore community with its albums, They’re Only Chasing Safety (2004) and Define the Great Line (2006) which were both certified Gold. Its popularity grew from there.
Before the group decided to say farewell, it released two more albums Lost in the Sound of Separation (2008) and Disambiguation (2010). The band; made up of Spencer Chamberlain on vocals, Aaron Gillespie on drums and vocals, Tim McTague on guitar, James Smith on guitar, Grant Brandell on bass and Chris Dudley on keyboards, released its comeback album Erase Me, April 6, 2018 on Fearless Records. The album was produced by Matt Squire (Panic! at the Disco) while being recorded in 2017.
On April 16, Erase Me debuted on the Billboard charts at #4 for Top Album Sales, and #16 on Billboard’s Top #200. The album is already climbing the charts and re-establishing Underoaths place in the metalcore scene.
The album starts off with an in your face song “It Has To Start Somewhere” , full of powerhouse vocals, rolling drums, double bass, industrial sounding keys and gritty hard rocking guitars. It sets the stage for the rest of the album.
Each song on the album is unique in its own right making for an adventure listening experience for fans. Some songs to take note of are “On My Teeth”, a song that encompasses Electronica ; Hard Rock and Metal. With solid vocals from singing to screaming, Chamberlain shows off his vocal chops. The band shows off its skill with hard rocking keys, double time drumming, heavy guitars and steady bass.
“Sink With You” is one of the most unique songs on the album it contains a great guitar solo breakdown featuring drums, bass and keys. In the distance you can hear Chamberlain scream “you can make it ok” over and over. It is a song that possesses a hard rock vibe.
Another distinctive song on the album is “No Frame”. The beginning of the song features a heavy bass influence and drums than fall-in-line with steady beats. Its Electronica mixed with a pop vibe especially on vocals. There is an eerie undertone to the tune that makes it unique and the song does turn heavier as it proceeds.
The last song on the album is a true rock ballad called “I Gave Up”. With a piano and vocal beginning it offers a beautifully haunting sound. When the guitar piece comes it adds depth, making the piece passionate. The song does turn hard rock at the end. This song was truly a great wrap up for the album bringing all the songs full circle.
All the songs on Erase Me can stand alone, yet when put together makes the album a treasure. Not one song is similar and the passion of the vocals and the musicianship comes through in every note. Underoath has come back with an album that is flawless and has proven that sometimes being away for a time makes for an even stronger comeback.
