UNDEROATH

Survive Kaleidoscope

Tooth & Nail (2008)

by Facemelter

 

I ran into a stranger recently wearing an Underoath t-shirt and I immediately said, "Cool shirt man!"  He made it clear he was FROM Tampa, Fla. (like Underoath).  During our brief discussion, I gathered he was a new fan, interested in only their recent, heavier material.  I, in turn commented that I became a fan a few years ago but have recently truly grown to appreciate much of their older, emo-ish, ballad-esque, melodic-core material.  Seriously, some of Underoath's older stuff is really starting to hit me on several levels.  This guy anyways, seemed to scoff at the notion of embracing their older material.  I think he's missing the point.  The emo is what makes such a heavy band like Underoath so special.

 

If you loved Define The Great Line, you'll most likely revel in the live chaos that is Survive Kaleidoscope.  The majority of the recording is that last and greatest disc recorded live.  Although it's at times difficult to figure who is singing what,...there's no doubt that vocalist Aaron Gillespie is a monster on the mic.  This guy sings, screams and roars like a man possessed.  The irony is, he's not possessed at all, he's been saved by The Lord.  The dynamics and vocal interplay that Underoath kicks out live makes most of their peers look rather weak in comparison.  Moody, precise, powerful and uncompromising all describe this group live.

 

As far as the dvd goes, it's one of the best I've recently seen.  The cinematography is top notch and the intro images are dark yet beautiful.  "Returning Empty Handed" is a head-banging affair followed by the brutally heavy "In Regards To Myself".  One of the older tracks, "It's Dangerous Business Walking Out Your Front Door" prominently features the vocals of drummer Spencer Chamberlain.  His clean voice makes the group truly special when you balance it with the powerful roar of Gillespie.  Jesus Christ is a major focal point with Underoath yet they definitely don't preach.  They lay it out on the line,...take it or leave it,...enough said.  The keyboardist wears a Pantera shirt and bangs his head relentlessly.  The guitarists riff workouts are tight and muscular.  Hell, if this isn't the most important emo/metal crossover band out there, then I'm clinically deaf.