This fall Underoath began the US leg of their tour. They are celebrating 20 years of one of their most cherished records. “They’re Only Chasing Safety” marked a new era for the still growing band. This album was their first record featuring front man Spencer Chamberlain. The iconic album was a monumental moment of the MySpace era Emo and Post-Hardcore movement. It still influences music today. This is clear by the sound of the band they chose to bring along this journey, Static Dress. The two bands delivered a memorable show full of energy. Nostalgia flowed through the venue, taking everyone in attendance at The Myth back in time.
Static Dress are a new force to be reckoned with in the Post-Hardcore movement. Formed in 2018, this band from the UK has risen the ranks and has become a staple in the scene. The group, led by Oli Appleyard, exploded onto the stage with their opening track “disposable care.” The crowd instantly began jumping and singing along. The chemistry this band has on stage is amazing to behold. It breathes new life into the genre while retaining its roots. They continued to engage the crowd with other hits like “Push rope” and “safeword” (one of my personal favorites.) They kept the energy of the night at a high level. Finishing their set with their most popular song “clean.” The crowd was left wanting more and warmed up for what the headlining giants had in store.
Underoath opened the night in a melancholic way. The house lights went down. The warm lamps on stage revealed a couch, some cathode ray TVs, and a beat up mini fridge. It was reminiscent of an early 2000s basement. Aaron Gillespie, the drummer and vocalist, walked on stage. He took a seat on the couch. The crowd was deafening when they saw his face. What followed was a soulful rendition of their song “Some Will Seek Forgiveness, Others Escape.” Lulling everyone into a sense of calm before the onslaught that would be the rest of the set.
The rest of the band took the stage. The crescendo intro of “Young and Aspiring” began to fill the room, as the crowd cheered. From the moment that song began, front-man Spencer Chamberlain commanded the crowd to sing along and jump. They played “They’re Only Chasing Safety” in its entirety. Taking everyone back to the era of vague bulletin posts, straightened hair, and profile songs.
The band continued to perform some of the best cuts from the album. They played “A Boy Brushed Red Living in Black and White,” “It’s Dangerous Business Walking Out Your Front Door,” and “Reinventing Your Exit.” These songs kept everyone moving and on their feet. At a point of their set, the sound cut off, leaving everyone confused. Guitarist Tim McTague ordered everyone to stay silent as they communicated with the front of house. After a bit of back and forth, the sound came back on. “We ain’t cutting sh*t!” exclaimed keyboard player Chris Dudley. And the show went on with the same energy it had before.
The night came to an end with a fan voted setlist. It included their new hit single “Teeth.” The setlist also featured other classics like “Writing On The Walls” and “When the Sun Sleeps.” These songs are from the album that established their sound, “The Changing of Times.”
Overall it was a night full of nostalgia, excitement and emotion. You definitely do not want to miss this trip back in time!
Check out our contributor photographer, Angel Salas photos now!
Check out the band websites for more info –
Static Dress
Underoath
The post Young and Aspiring: A Night of Nostalgia With Underoath first appeared on Rockstar Culture.
