What makes The Changing of Times by Underoath notable?

'The Changing of Times' was pivotal in cementing Underoath's place within the Christian metal and post-hardcore genres, achieving significant critical acclaim and charting on Billboard's Top Heatseekers. Its influence is noted among subsequent bands in the genre as it captured an emotional depth that resonated with listeners during the early 2000s. Released on February 26, 2002, 'The Changing of Times' marked Underoath's third studio album, following their breakthrough with 'Crimson,' which established them in the metalcore scene. This album showcased a shift toward a more melodic approach, setting the stage for their later commercial success and artistic evolution.

Who is The Changing of Times for?

The Changing of Times works well if you're into emotional peaks and valleys, introspective moments of reflection and short bursts of intensity.

How many songs are on The Changing of Times?

The Changing of Times has 10 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

The Changing of Times

Underoath · 2002

35 min · 10 tracks · metalcore

A visceral blend of metalcore intensity and melodic post-hardcore dynamics, fueled by deeply personal lyrical themes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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When the Sun Sleeps — Opening with haunting melodies and escalating intensity, this track exemplifies the album's emotional core while foreshadowing the band's future sound.
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Letting Go of Tonight — This brief interlude serves as a poignant moment of reflection, contrasting with the heavier tracks and highlighting the album's thematic depth.
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Changing of Times — The title track encapsulates the essence of transition and growth, combining aggressive instrumentals with introspective lyrics that resonate throughout the album.
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Alone in December — With its somber tone and rich instrumentation, this track showcases the band's ability to blend vulnerability with musical intensity, making it a standout moment.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends metalcore and melodic elements, showcasing varied dynamics but lacks seamless cohesion.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature aggressive guitar riffs and rapid drumming, establishing a high-energy opening.
The fifth track introduces clean vocals and a slower tempo, creating a contrast with the preceding intensity.
Several tracks incorporate atmospheric interludes that shift the mood before returning to heavier sections.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

emotional peaks and valleys
introspective moments of reflection
short bursts of intensity
dynamic shifts in pacing
cathartic release through sound

Maybe skip if you

dislike emotional intensity
prefer consistent energy levels

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on February 26, 2002, 'The Changing of Times' marked Underoath's third studio album, following their breakthrough with 'Crimson,' which established them in the metalcore scene. This album showcased a shift toward a more melodic approach, setting the stage for their later commercial success and artistic evolution.
Stylistic neighbors: Norma Jean· The Devil Wears Prada· Haste the Day