Album Review: Underoath - Ø (Disambiguation)

It’s safe to say that over the years, Underoath have experienced change a lot more than most bands and none more prolific than when their drummer (and final founding member) Aaron Gillespie left to pursue other ventures earlier this year. After much wonder and speculation regarding their future, the band have returned with former Norma Jean drummer Daniel Davison and have recorded an album that is nothing short of a masterpiece.

If critics were sceptical about the direction in which 'Ø (Disambiguation)' was heading without Aaron, they need not worry; the opener, 'In Division' should cast any uncertainties aside. Adopting a much slower pace to what we’ve come to expect, there is a dark yet ambient feel about the whole track; with Spencer Chaimberlain now adopting all vocal responsibilities and Davison’s distinct drumming style coming into influence, it’s an enigmatic opener that sets the tone of the entire album.

The second track, 'Catch Myself Catching Myself' sees a much more recognisable sound from the band; frantic guitars, epic breakdowns and some pounding drums will have you constantly pressing repeat until you reach 'Illuminator'. Showcased in many of their live shows previous to release, 'Illuminator' truly epitomises what the band have set out to acomplish with this album. An absolutely explosive begininng leads to nothing but chaos throughout the track; whether its the vigorous drum breaks, emphatic vocals or the seriously heavy guitar, it really is an example of some of the bands best work.

The pace of the album peaks and troughs throughout with slow jams like 'Paper Lung', 'Driftwood' and 'Reversal' being totally offset by moments of sheer heavy metal; 'A Divine Eradication' being the perfect example where the band are the heaviest I’ve ever heard!

Whilst each member of Underoath contributes something truly special to the album, Spencer’s remarkable vocal work should be noted; whether it’s his seamless transitions between screaming and singing or whether it’s his vivid songwriting ability, he has shown himself to be a truly great frontman.

Carrying on with frantic tracks such as 'Vacant Mouth' and 'My Deteriorating Incline', you see the band adopt a more traditional hardcore sound that just oozes power, passion and atmosphere; you get a real feel for this progressive sound until the album finally slows down with 'In Completion', a change of pace at the end that is characteristic of Underoath’s recent releases, this epic finish draws the album to a powerful conclusion.

Needless to say, Aaron Gillespie’s departure was pretty unexpected and he’ll undoubtedly be missed but 'Ø (Disambiguation)' marks the beginning of a truly exciting time for Underoath; they’re heavier, darker, more refined and this very natural progression they’ve taken sees them return to their roots in an utterly spectacular way.

5/5

'Ø (Disambiguation)' by Underoath is available now through Solid State/Tooth & Nail.

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Sandeep Dawett