Underoath initially identified as a Christian band, with their faith influencing both their music and public persona. Over time, the band’s relationship with Christianity evolved, leading to a shift in their religious identification.
In their formative years, Underoath was open about their Christian beliefs, which were reflected in their lyrics and public statements. Their early albums, such as Act of Depression (1999) and Cries of the Past (2000), contained overt Christian themes, resonating with audiences in both Christian and secular music scenes.
As the band progressed, particularly around the mid-2000s, members began to express a more nuanced relationship with their faith. In a 2006 interview, vocalist Spencer Chamberlain stated, “[We are Christian but] in a different way. We’re not like your average Christian band.” He emphasized that while Christianity was integral to their lives, it wasn’t the sole focus of their lyrics.
By 2018, with the release of their album Erase Me, Underoath publicly distanced themselves from the Christian band label. This shift was evident in their music and interviews, where they discussed the constraints they felt being labeled a Christian band. In an interview with Revolver, Chamberlain mentioned that moving away from the Christian band identity was “one of the best things we ever did.”
Underoath no longer identifies as a Christian band. Their music explores a wide range of themes beyond religious contexts, reflecting the personal and artistic growth of its members. While individual members may hold personal beliefs, the band’s collective identity has evolved to focus on broader human experiences and emotions.
Underoath is an American rock band formed on November 30, 1997, in Ocala, Florida, by vocalist Dallas Taylor and guitarist Luke Morton. The band’s early lineup included drummer Aaron Gillespie, guitarist Corey Steger, and bassist Octavio Fernandez. They initially identified as a Christian metalcore band, with their faith influencing their music and public persona.
In 1999, Underoath signed with Takehold Records and released their debut album, Act of Depression, followed by Cries of the Past in 2000. These early works showcased a heavy metalcore sound with Christian themes. In 2002, they released The Changing of Times, which marked a shift towards a more melodic post-hardcore style. During this period, the band underwent several lineup changes, with guitarist Timothy McTague joining in 2001.
In 2003, Dallas Taylor departed from the band and was replaced by vocalist Spencer Chamberlain. This lineup released They’re Only Chasing Safety in 2004, achieving significant commercial success and earning a gold certification from the RIAA. Their follow-up album, Define the Great Line (2006), debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and also received gold certification. The band’s sixth studio album, Lost in the Sound of Separation (2008), continued their success, reaching a top-ten position on the Billboard 200. In 2010, drummer Aaron Gillespie left the band and was replaced by Daniel Davison, formerly of Norma Jean.
On October 2, 2012, Underoath announced their decision to disband, releasing a career-spanning compilation album, Anthology: 1999–2013, on November 6, 2012. They embarked on a farewell tour with mewithoutYou, As Cities Burn, and letlive., concluding with their final show on January 26, 2013, in St. Petersburg, Florida.
In August 2015, Underoath announced their reunion, including the return of Aaron Gillespie. They performed at the Self Help Fest in March 2016 and subsequently embarked on the “Rebirth Tour.” In 2018, they released Erase Me, their first album in eight years, marking a departure from their Christian band label. The album’s lead single, “On My Teeth,” received a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance. In 2022, they released their ninth studio album, Voyeurist. In March 2023, long-time rhythm guitarist James Smith announced his departure from the band. In December 2024, former vocalist Dallas Taylor reunited with Underoath on stage in St. Petersburg, Florida, performing “When the Sun Sleeps” alongside current members.
Underoath’s musical style has evolved from their early metalcore roots to incorporate elements of post-hardcore, screamo, and alternative rock. They have been a seminal voice in progressive, heavy rock for over two decades, consistently pushing creative boundaries. Their willingness to evolve without losing sight of their core identity has solidified their legacy within the rock and metal scenes.
| Album | Year | Type |
| Acts of Depression | 1999 | EP |
| Cries of the Past | 2000 | EP |
| The Changing of Times | 2002 | Full-Length |
| They’re Only Chasing Safety | 2004 | Full-Length |
| Define the Great Line | 2006 | Full-Length |
| 777 | 2007 | Video |
| Survive, Kaleidoscope | 2008 | Live Album |
| Lost in the Sound of Separation | 2008 | Full-Length |
| Like at Koko | 2010 | Live Album |
| Ø (Disambiguation) | 2010 | Full-Length |
| Play Your Old Stuff | 2011 | Compilation |
| Anthology: 1999-2013 | 2012 | Compilation |
| Icon Underoath | 2014 | Compilation |
| The Ultimate Playlist | 2016 | Compilation |
*Underoath released albums after The Ultimate Playlist; however, these are the albums we are including due to changes in labeling after this timeframe. See “Christian Status” above for more on that.
