TODD UNDERWOOD Outside
Todd Underwood has been a quiet force in the music industry for decades, crafting hard-edged yet melodic guitar-driven compositions for sports broadcasts, instrumental albums, and an impressive array of band projects. Now, with Outside, he steps into the spotlight under his own name, delivering an album that feels as much like a culmination of his career as it does a fresh start.
Opening with the aptly titled “Welcome to the Stage,” the album immediately sets the tone: lush harmonies, layered production, and a true sense of grandeur. It’s an overture to a record that is ambitious and polished, but raw where it counts. With shades of The Police’s rhythmic complexity and King’s X’s introspective depth and drive, Underwood weaves a rich tapestry of sounds that feel both classic and contemporary. He doesn’t settle for nostalgia; instead, he uses these touchpoints to craft something uniquely his.
Tracks like “It’s Not Broken” and “Too Soon to Quit” showcase Underwood’s knack for writing lyrics that balance introspection with relatability. The former explores the push-and-pull of relationships with a clever twist on the notion of perfection, while the latter is a rousing anthem for perseverance, complete with a driving rhythm section and soaring guitar solos.
The title track, “Outside,” is a standout moment, encapsulating the album’s theme of stepping beyond comfort zones and embracing vulnerability. Underwood’s guitar work is front and center here—melodic, intricate, and unapologetically emotive.
For fans of funk-tinged rock, “Something You Wanted to Say” delivers a groove reminiscent of early Red Hot Chili Peppers, while “Reap What I Sow” ventures into heavier territory, anchored by thick basslines and explosive solos. “Shadow of the Battlefield” is another highlight, its cinematic scope underscored by haunting melodies and vivid imagery.
Underwood’s years in the trenches of the music world shine through in the album’s craftsmanship. Every track is meticulously arranged without ever feeling overproduced. His vocals, while not showy, convey authenticity and a lived-in warmth that perfectly matches the music’s blend of grit and grace.
Outside is not just an album—it’s a statement. Todd Underwood has taken the sum of his experience and created a record that’s as dynamic as it is cohesive, as introspective as it is anthemic. For those who long for rock music that combines virtuosity with heart, Outside is a must-listen.
Follow Todd Underwood on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
