What makes Cries of the Past by Underoath notable?

Cries of the Past received critical acclaim within the underground Christian metal scene, helping to pave the way for future bands in the genre. Its blend of heavy instrumentation and spiritual themes resonated with listeners, contributing to the growth of the Christian metal movement in the early 2000s. Released as Underoath's debut album, Cries of the Past marked the band's entry into the metalcore scene following their formation in 1997. At this stage, they were still establishing their sound, transitioning from their earlier material into a more defined style that would later become influential in the genre.

Who is Cries of the Past for?

Cries of the Past works well if you're into steady progression through emotions, long-form listening commitment required and reflective moments of vulnerability.

How many songs are on Cries of the Past?

Cries of the Past has 5 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Cries of the Past

Underoath · 2000

42 min · 5 tracks · metalcore

A raw fusion of metalcore and post-hardcore that channels emotional turbulence through aggressive instrumentation and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Last — This opening track sets a powerful tone for the album with its dynamic shifts between melodic passages and intense screaming, showcasing the band's signature sound.
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Giving Up Hurts the Most — This track highlights emotional vulnerability through its lyrics and musical tension, balancing heavier elements with poignant melodic hooks that resonate deeply.
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Cries of the Past — The title track encapsulates the album's thematic core, blending reflective lyrics with a hauntingly atmospheric arrangement that leaves a lasting impact on listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

43 /100

Lowland

Higher than 2% of albums we've rated

The album showcases a blend of aggressive instrumentation and emotional lyrics, establishing Underoath's early sound.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a slow build-up before erupting into fast-paced guitar riffs and aggressive drumming.
The final track features a gradual deceleration in tempo, allowing for an emotional resolution that contrasts with earlier intensity.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 5/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady progression through emotions
long-form listening commitment required
reflective moments of vulnerability
cathartic release in each track

Maybe skip if you

prefer quick, standalone tracks
seek upbeat, energetic vibes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released as Underoath's debut album, Cries of the Past marked the band's entry into the metalcore scene following their formation in 1997. At this stage, they were still establishing their sound, transitioning from their earlier material into a more defined style that would later become influential in the genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Norma Jean· The Devil Wears Prada· Haste the Day