It goes without saying that last year's They're Only Chasing Safety from Underoath was one of the most important hardcore releases in recent history. People who cried foul at the thought of screaming were suddenly singing lyrics like "up against the wall, up against the wall" and "drowning in my sleep, I'm drowning in my sleep." And though purists were less than impressed, there was no denying the milestone release that was They're Only Chasing Safety.

So now, in an attempt to capitalize on the popularity of one of Tooth & Nail's most popular releases in the history of the label, we are presented with a special edition of the album. Included on the second time around are four extra tracks, and a separate, fairly extensive DVD.

The first of the four additional tracks included is "I've Got Ten Friends and a Crowbar that Say You Ain't Gonna Do Jack" which was originally only released on the vinyl edition of They're Only Chasing Safety. And though it seems out of place due simply to the fact that it follows "Some Will Seek Forgiveness, Other Escape" which brilliantly ended the original release, it still fits well on the album, mixing singing with distorted screams for a signature "sing-a-long hardcore song" along the lines of "Reinventing Your Exit." The next three tracks, though never exactly explained, seem to be early versions of select songs on the album. The first of which is "The 80's Song," an alternate version of "It's Dangerous Business Walking Out Your Door." It feels a bit more raw and under-produced, but nothing cataclysmic has been changed since this earlier rendition. "You're So Intricate" follows in the same fashion, spotlighting an earlier version of "I'm Content with Losing." Lastly is "SmicTague," which serves as an early instrumental version of the album closer "Some Will Seek Forgiveness, Others Escape." These older studio takes are interesting, but ultimately forgettable, and the only real strength of the additions on this album is "I've Got Ten Friends…"

The bonus DVD features a forty-five minute documentary on the band, as well as interviews with the guys, a music video, and live performances for many of the songs on the album. It packs quite a punch, and caused me to drop my extended fist at the thought of a cheap re-release to capitalize on an already popular product. There was actually thought, time, and effort put into this particular repackaging. Sweat, blood, and tears even make an appearance in the form of merciless beatings and guitar nuts ripping human flesh (It all makes sense, I promise). Though the documentary brilliantly begins with the guys in the band huddled in prayer before a show, the program does little to actually take itself seriously. That is, of course, unless it's speaking of matters of God. There, the men of Underoath truly shine. One of the few bands that really don't care if they get the "Christian band" label, these guys are out to spread the love of Jesus in any and every way possible, and it is increasingly apparent throughout this documentary. Each member of the band is spotlighted and profiled through interviews with other members of the band. Along the way, you get to know the guys in a somewhat goofy, but uniquely intimate way.

The live performances included on the disc are raw, but inviting. And though they in no way match the power of the band's live energy, they give you as much of a glimpse as possible through the eye of a camera lens.

There is no doubt that fans will enjoy this re-issure of They're Only Chasing Safety. The simple question is whether or not they should dish out another fifteen or so bucks to own the same album again with some pretty nice bonuses. Though the extra tracks are nice and the DVD is revealing, it's still a tough call. Re-issues are always a risky business, but given the plethora we've been bombarded with as of late, they must be paying off. Suffice it to say, the re-issue business isn't my favorite, but They're Only Chasing Safety is your safest bet.

- Review date: 12/26/05, written by Josh Taylor