UNDER OATH CONCERT REVIEW

Under Oath @ Alliance Christian Church - Sarasota, Florida 11/23/01
(review and photos by: Erica Schrag)

		From day one, Underoath has not hidden their faith, but boldly proclaimed it. Their witness for Christ is living on and off the stage. During the show there arose some problems with the crowd involving moshing and dancing around, and the church asked if everyone could stop to prevent any accidents. Needless to say the audience wasn’t too happy and showed their distaste. Underoath could have showed a “rock star” attitude and showed their disappointment as well, but instead they cheerfully complied with the churches request, and went on to thank them for the opportunity to play.

Make no mistake, these local boys from Florida have gone and are going places. Most importantly-they have not forgotten the one who has gifted them in everything they do, Jesus Christ. I was unable to catch what was supposed to be the band's release party in October (the release of the new album, "The Changing Of Times", was pushed back until February), but was able to catch them over Thanksgiving break in Sarasota and hear a sampling of the newer material live. The show still went on as planned, with over 400 kids showing up! Sadly, I myself could not make it to this show, but over my Thanksgiving break caught them in Sarasota. I couldn’t wait to finally hear their new stuff live.

		They have comprised a couple of their songs from their first release, “Acts of Depression” into one medley. Included is, “A love so pure.” When it was played, it was sincere and beautiful worship, right there in the middle of the show. Simple words, but powerful meaning: Jesus Christ I love you Jesus Christ I love you Jesus Christ I love you My heart aches for your love

Their performance is captivating still; their hearts are in the music and lyrics all the way. No surprise, Underoath is always trying something new and inventive; at one point they had an opera singer in the band. The new music is less metal in my opinion and more rock mixed with a little bit of electronics and highly emotional. I don’t really care too much for the electronics, but it grows on you and there music is still remarkable. To hear a sampling of the new Underoath material go to www.mp3.com and search for Underoath.

		I do confess I miss the old days and their ten minute songs, so the medley didn’t make me too happy wrapping everything up in about three minutes. It still is great to hear their old stuff though. At every Underoath show they always make sure to tell everyone that they are loved, Jesus loves them, and if anyone needs or wants to talk to them about anything that’s going on in their lives or wants to know more about Jesus, feel free to come up and chat. How many bands can you say genuinely take an interest in people like this? Keep these guys and their band in your prayers; they’re making a difference for Christ’s Kingdom, and not to mention rocking the stereotypical Christian music industry bringing great variety and flavor. * See more photographs from this concert here.