Few bands have left as significant a mark on the post-hardcore scene as Underoath. With their genre-defining blend of metalcore and screamo, the Florida-based band surged to prominence in the early 2000s, and their 2004 album “They’re Only Chasing Safety” remains one of the most iconic releases in the scene. To celebrate the album’s 20th anniversary, Underoath embarked on a special tour, giving fans the full experience of the record that propelled them to stardom. The tour promised a night of nostalgic sing-alongs, mosh pits, and a celebration of the band’s enduring impact on the scene, and Stage AE was packed tight.

Opening the night was Static Dress, a band that has been quickly rising in the post-hardcore ranks since 2018 with their chaotic yet melodic sound. Their performance was a whirlwind of energy from start to finish, with vocalist Olli Appleyard commanding the stage like a seasoned pro. The entire set showcased their dynamic mix of aggression and melody, with dissonant guitars giving way to soaring choruses. The band’s fusion of old-school emo influences with modern hardcore sensibilities was a perfect lead-in for the night, giving the crowd a taste of both nostalgia and something fresh. By the end of their set, Static Dress had earned more than a few new fans.

As the lights dimmed for Underoath’s set, the anticipation in the room was electric. The band kicked off with the moody and atmospheric “Some Will Seek Forgiveness, Others Escape” before jumping into the higher energy tracks, and from the first note, the audience was transported back to the early 2000s. Spencer Chamberlain’s vocals were as fierce as ever, seamlessly shifting between visceral screams and impassioned cleans, while Aaron Gillespie’s iconic clean vocals added the perfect melodic contrast. The crowd screamed along with every word, and it was clear that this album still holds a special place in the hearts of many. With each track, the band poured everything into their performance, giving new life to songs that had shaped a generation of fans.

Playing the entirety of “They’re Only Chasing Safety” was a nostalgic experience not just for the fans, but for the band as well. Tracks like “A Boy Brushed Red Living in Black and White” and “Reinventing Your Exit” sent the crowd into a frenzy, with bodies moving in unison and fists raised high. The band’s performance was tight and intense, delivering the same raw emotion that made the album so beloved two decades ago. The energy in the room was palpable, and as the final notes of “I’m Content With Losing” echoed through the venue, the crowd erupted in applause, both for the band and for the memories that these songs had created.

After closing out “They’re Only Chasing Safety,” Underoath transitioned into the second half of their set, which had been carefully curated by fan votes. The songs that followed spanned the band’s extensive discography, giving the audience a little bit of everything. Tracks like “A Moment Suspended in Time” and “When the Sun Sleeps” injected a fresh burst of intensity into the night, with mosh pits reigniting and the crowd shouting every lyric. Chamberlain asked, “I know it’s a weekday, but are you guys down to fuckin party?” and Pittsburgh was absolutely ready to party. Also included was Underoath’s 2024 single, “Teeth,” which fit perfectly with the nostalgic tracks. Underoath’s ability to effortlessly switch between their earlier, iconic material and their more recent work was a testament to their growth and versatility as a band.

As the set came to a close with the powerful “Writing on the Walls,” the crowd was left exhausted yet exhilarated, having experienced both the nostalgia of the past and the energy of the present. Underoath’s “They’re Only Chasing Safety” 20th anniversary tour was a perfect blend of nostalgia and celebration, reminding everyone of the band’s immense impact on the post-hardcore scene. The night was a whirlwind of emotion, energy, and connection. By revisiting their roots while embracing their evolution, Underoath showed that they are not just a band of the past but a force that continues to shape the future of heavy music. Fans left the venue buzzing, grateful for a night that honored their memories, and excited for what’s still to come from the band.

September 24th, 2024