Chasing Mediocrity

Underoath, known for their Solid State debut The Changing Of Times, felt that giving the world one album that sounded generic wasn’t enough. It’s a shame, especially since they used to be a dark, brooding metal band, and then felt that going the poppier, “screamo” route was the way to go. Their new album, titled They’re Only Chasing Safety is a safe album in all aspects, from the vocals, instrumentation, and production. Each track follows a similar formula, with Spencer Chamberlain’s screams contrasting with Aaron Gillespie’s Used-esque singing. Honestly, that’s what most of this album sounds like, a bad copy of the Used.

This style of music is at its peak right now, and the kids are eating it up. The main problem with it is that it doesn’t seem to be about the music, which is heard with each track, whether it is “The Impact of Reason,” with it’s screaming and generic pop-style music, or the one track that tries to deviate from their formula, “Some Will Seek Forgiveness, Others Escape.” Even this song isn’t special, with a pseudo-electronica beat and falsetto whining. The songs are very poppy, with screeching, high-pitched screaming layered on each one to try and make it sound edgy, or angst-ridden. What winds up happening is that each song sounds just like the last, and the listener is left with almost 40 minutes of music that is incredibly boring.

If you are into Norma Jean, Atreyu, Boys Night Out, The Used, or any of the other bands fitting the mold, then get Underoath’s new album, you’ll love it. If the term “fashion-core” makes you ill to your stomach, then avoid this record at all costs.