What makes Under Soil and Dirt by The Story So Far notable?

The album received widespread acclaim for its authentic sound and relatable themes, leading to a strong following among fans of the genre. It helped solidify The Story So Far’s reputation, charting on Billboard's Heatseekers Albums and gaining attention from major publications like Alternative Press and Kerrang!. Under Soil and Dirt is The Story So Far's debut studio album, released in 2011 after their well-received self-titled EP. This album marked their entry into the pop-punk scene, establishing them as significant players within the genre during a time when pop-punk was experiencing a resurgence.

Who is Under Soil and Dirt for?

Under Soil and Dirt works well if you're into short, punchy listening sessions, energetic emotional bursts and youthful angst reflections.

How many songs are on Under Soil and Dirt?

Under Soil and Dirt has 11 tracks, running approximately 32 minutes.

Under Soil and Dirt

The Story So Far · 2011

32 min · 11 tracks · pop-punk

A raw, energetic blend of pop-punk melodies and emotionally charged lyrics that capture youthful angst and introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Roam — This track exemplifies the band's signature sound, featuring catchy hooks alongside introspective lyrics that resonate with feelings of restlessness and searching for belonging.
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Swords and Pens — With its anthemic chorus and lyrical exploration of perseverance through adversity, this song embodies the album's overarching theme of resilience amidst personal struggles.
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High Regard — The balance of upbeat instrumentals with reflective lyrics makes this track a standout, showcasing the band’s ability to blend energy with emotional depth effectively.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100

Foothills

Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album effectively captures youthful angst through energetic melodies and relatable themes, establishing its place in pop-punk.

What we noticed

The first five tracks maintain a high energy level with fast tempos and driving guitar riffs, while the next three tracks introduce more introspective lyrics and slightly slower tempos.
Several songs feature dual vocal lines that alternate between verses, creating a dynamic interplay rather than a clear lead singer.
The album closes with two tracks that gradually decrease in tempo, allowing for a reflective conclusion after the energetic opening.

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: 7/10

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

short, punchy listening sessions
energetic emotional bursts
youthful angst reflections
quick, relatable narratives

Where this album fits

Career context: Under Soil and Dirt is The Story So Far's debut studio album, released in 2011 after their well-received self-titled EP. This album marked their entry into the pop-punk scene, establishing them as significant players within the genre during a time when pop-punk was experiencing a resurgence.
Stylistic neighbors: Neck Deep· State Champs· The Wonder Years