The Almost [ tickets ]--essentially a one-man project featuring drummer Aaron Gillespie of Christian alt-metal band Underoath [ tickets ]--will make its live debut this month and follow it up with a headlining club tour in January.

Gillespie--who, according to a press release, "sings and plays virtually every note" on the band's forthcoming self-titled debut, set for release next spring--will enlist the help of some of his friends to augment The Almost's live sound when the group plays its first show Dec. 17 in Anaheim, sharing a bill with alt-rockers A Thorn for Every Heart.

After a few more co-headlining gigs in December, the band--featuring Jay Vilardi (guitar), Nick D'Amico (guitar), Alex Aponte (bass) and Kenny Bozich (drums)--will kick off a slate of headlining shows Jan. 2 in Richmond, VA.

Forgive Durden and Classic Case will offer support on the 17-date outing.

Gillespie, who has no intention of parting ways with Underoath, will pursue touring and recording opportunities "whenever Underoath is off the road," according to a press release.

Underoath's most recent studio release, "Define the Great Line," hit stores in June.