In 2002, Underoath released The Changing of Times. Not only was this record a huge success but it also foreshadowed the changes to come in the band. Before recording the follow-up, not only did they lose two key members but they also lost their lead vocalist. But after a short hiatus, they have emerged with their strongest effort to date, They're Only Chasing Safety.

They're Only Chasing Safety kicks off with "Young and Aspiring," which sets the concept that this will not be another cliche hard rock album. In similar styling as the first track, the second, "A Boy Brushed Red Living in Black and White," tells the tale of a boy coping with the aftermath of having pre-marital sex knowing what he has done is wrong. Although most of the record is different from their debut, "The Impact of Reason" and "I Don't Feel Very Receptive Today" would have fit nicely on their last record.

They're Only Chasing Safety has nothing to do with making a safe follow-up record, because this record is more than just progressive songwriting. Instead, it leans more toward experimentation with tracks like the poppy, radio-friendly "Reinventing Your Exit," and the well-structured "It's Dangerous Business Walking Out Your Front Door" which uses a children's choir during the bridge and electronic percussion. But the standout track of the record is "Some Will Seek Forgiveness, While Others Escape," featuring guest vocals from Aaron Marsh of Copeland. The song deals with forgiveness and loving one another -- even nonbelievers -- with lyrics like, "Hey ungraceful I will teach you to forgive one another. Hey unfaithful I will teach you to be stronger, to be stronger. Hey unloving I will love you."

Overall, They're Only Chasing Safety is Underoath's finest effort to date. Mixing hardcore elements with explosive vocals and passionate lyrics, this album deserves all the hype it has received. This could possibly be the best hard rock record to come out this year, and deserves a listen from all hard rock fans.

Review date: 7/9/04, written by Brian Fernandez for Jesusfreakhideout.com