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Band Timeline

1997

Formation of Underoath

Underoath was formed on November 30, 1997, in Ocala, Florida, by lead vocalist Dallas Taylor and guitarist Luke Morton. The band's name was inspired by a biblical reference conceived by Morton. Drummer Aaron Gillespie, who knew Morton from church, joined, along with guitarist Corey Steger and bassist Octavio Fernandez. All members were in high school at the time. The band began performing locally, establishing the foundation of their early sound and presence in the Florida rock scene.
1999

Debut Album Release: Act of Depression

After a year of playing local festivals and tours, Underoath signed to Takehold Records based in Alabama. They released their debut studio album, Act of Depression, in July 1999. The album sold over 2,000 copies and showcased a heavy, raw sound typical of metalcore and post-hardcore genres. Around this time, guitarist Luke Morton departed from the band before appearing on any formal recordings, leading to lineup adjustments in the formative years.
2000

New Member and Cries of the Past Release

Keyboardist Christopher Dudley joined the band in 2000, adding a new layer to their sound with his keyboard contributions. That year, Underoath released Cries of the Past, a five-song album that ran nearly forty minutes, further exploring their post-hardcore and metalcore style. The album quickly sold 3,000 copies and helped the band expand their fanbase. This period saw the band's growing identity and experimentation with deeper atmospherics.
2002

Release of The Changing of Times and Lineup Updates

Underoath signed with Solid State Records, a subsidiary of Tooth & Nail Records, after Takehold Records was acquired by the latter. Bassist Grant Brandell joined the lineup in January 2002. The Changing of Times, produced by James Paul Wisner, was released on February 26, 2002. The album featured the single 'When the Sun Sleeps' and reflected emotional and thematic growth, focusing on personal struggles and relationships. This release solidified the band's place in the metalcore scene.
2003

Lead Vocalist Change: Departure of Dallas Taylor, Arrival of Spencer Chamberlain

Dallas Taylor, original lead vocalist, departed from Underoath in 2003. He was replaced by Spencer Chamberlain, marking a significant shift in the band's vocal style and creative direction. Chamberlain's entrance brought fresh energy and helped stabilize the band's lineup after several changes. This year marked the end of the band's early era and the beginning of a more commercially successful phase.
2004

Breakthrough Album: They're Only Chasing Safety

In 2004, Underoath released They're Only Chasing Safety, their fourth studio album. This album marked their breakthrough into the mainstream, featuring a blend of melodic post-hardcore with screamed and sung vocals. The record was eventually certified gold by the RIAA, signaling commercial success beyond their hardcore roots. The album's accessibility broadened their fanbase considerably, helping establish Underoath as a leading band in their genre.
2006

Define the Great Line Release and Commercial Peak

Define the Great Line, released in 2006, became Underoath's most commercially successful album to date. It peaked at number two on the Billboard 200 chart and was also certified gold. The album combined heavy elements with more experimental sounds and thematic depth, exploring spirituality and personal reflection. Its success cemented the band’s mainstream status and was acclaim among fans and critics alike, marking a high point in their career.
2008

Lost in the Sound of Separation and Major Lineup Change

Their sixth studio album, Lost in the Sound of Separation, came out in 2008 and reached the top ten on the Billboard 200. The album was noted for its intense and complex musical arrangements. Later that year, longtime drummer and clean vocalist Aaron Gillespie left the band, ending an era for Underoath. He was replaced by Daniel Davison, formerly of Norma Jean. Gillespie's departure marked a pivotal change, affecting the band's sound and dynamic.
2010

Release of Ø (Disambiguation) Album

In 2010, Underoath released Ø (Disambiguation), their seventh studio album. With Gillespie absent, lead vocalist Spencer Chamberlain and guitarist Timothy McTague took on more prominent singing roles. The album continued to blend post-hardcore aggression with melodic elements but introduced a darker and more experimental tone. This release demonstrated the band's ability to evolve despite lineup changes, maintaining their artistic relevance.
2013

Disbandment and Final Show

On October 2, 2012, Underoath announced they would disband in 2013 after a successful career spanning over 15 years. The band played their final show in January 2013, concluding their initial chapter. This breakup paused the band's evolution but left a lasting legacy in the post-hardcore and metalcore communities. Fans commemorated their impactful discography, influential genre blending, and passionate live performances.
2015

Reunion and Return of Aaron Gillespie

Underoath reunited on August 17, 2015, with original drummer Aaron Gillespie returning to the lineup. The reunion was met with enthusiasm from fans and marked a rejuvenation of the band's creative drive. They began performing live again, including a notable appearance at A Day to Remember's Self Help Fest in 2016. This reunion set the stage for new material and a refreshed band identity.
2018

Release of Erase Me and Departure from Christian Themes

In 2018, Underoath released Erase Me, their eighth studio album and first in eight years. This record also marked their first album in ten years with Aaron Gillespie back on drums and vocals. Significantly, the band openly abandoned their previous Christian musical approach with this release, reflecting a shift in lyrical themes and personal beliefs. Erase Me showcased a modernized sound, exploring themes of change and personal growth.
2022

Voyeurist Album Release

Underoath released their ninth studio album, Voyeurist, in January 2022. This album continued to build on the band's evolution, blending aggressive post-hardcore with experimental elements. Voyeurist was a testament to the band's resilience and ability to innovate over decades. The album was well-received, reinforcing Underoath’s relevance in contemporary rock and metal scenes.
2025

Scheduled Release of The Place After This One

Underoath announced their tenth studio album, The Place After This One, scheduled to be released in March 2025. This upcoming release signifies the band's ongoing creative journey and sustained presence in the music industry. It reflects their commitment to evolving their sound while maintaining core elements that have defined their career over nearly three decades. Fans anticipate this new chapter in Underoath's storied history.
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Aaron Gillespie

2015

Lead vocals

Chris Dudley

2015

Sampler

Spencer Chamberlain

2015

Lead vocals

Timothy McTague

2015

Guitar

Timothy McTague

2015

Background vocals

Chris Dudley

2015

Keyboard

Chris Dudley

2015

Synthesizer

Grant Brandell

2015

Bass guitar

Aaron Gillespie

2015

Drums (drum set)

James Smith

2015

Guitar

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Timothy McTague

2001
2013

Background vocals

Guitar

Corey Steger

1998
1999

Background vocals

Guitar

Corey Steger

2000
2001

Background vocals

Guitar

Grant Brandell

2002
2013

Bass guitar

Octavio Fernandez

2000
2003

Guitar

Spencer Chamberlain

2003
2013

Lead vocals

Aaron Gillespie

1997
2010

Lead vocals

Drums (drum set)

Octavio Fernandez

1998
2000

Bass guitar

Chris Dudley

2000
2013

Keyboard

Synthesizer

Sampler

Luke Morton

1997
1999

Guitar

James Smith

2003
2013

Guitar

Matt Clark

2000
2001

Bass guitar

Dallas Taylor

1997
2003

Lead vocals

Daniel Davison

2010
2013

Drums (drum set)

Billy Nottke

2001
2002

Bass guitar

Story of Underoath

Underoath: A Rock Band's Journey Through Sound and Change

Underoath, often stylized as Underøath or UnderOath, emerged from the Florida music scene, born in Ocala in 1997. The band, originally a Christian group, was founded by vocalist Dallas Taylor and guitarist Luke Morton. They later relocated to Tampa, where drummer, clean vocalist, and last remaining original member Aaron Gillespie joined the fold.

Underoath's early years were marked by frequent lineup changes. Taylor's powerful vocals graced the band's first three releases - Act of Depression, Cries of the Past, and The Changing of Times. However, he left in 2003, paving the way for Spencer Chamberlain to become the new lead vocalist. This change marked a turning point for Underoath, leading to a more stable lineup that would define their sound for years to come.

The band's breakthrough came with the release of They're Only Chasing Safety and Define the Great Line, both achieving Gold certification from the RIAA. These albums cemented Underoath's mainstream success, with Define the Great Line hitting number 2 on the Billboard 200 chart.

Underoath continued to explore their musical direction with their sixth album, Lost in the Sound of Separation, which also achieved top-ten success on the Billboard 200. However, following its release, Gillespie left the band, making way for former Norma Jean drummer Daniel Davison.

The band's seventh album, Ø (Disambiguation), saw the departure from their Christian roots and the emergence of Chamberlain and McTague's clean vocals in Gillespie's absence. This marked a new chapter in Underoath's story, showcasing their ability to adapt and innovate while retaining their core sound.

Throughout their evolution, Underoath has left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape. Their distinctive blend of heavy riffs, emotive lyrics, and shifting vocals has captured the hearts of millions, establishing them as a powerful and enduring force in the music world.

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