The multi-platinum group Skillet has been working hard once again. Many fans may not realize this band first emerged on the Christian music scene with its self-titled debut in 1996. During their early years, they experimented with many different sounds—which is why the band was called “Skillet” in the first place. It was as if they threw many ideas into a skillet, and something unique came out. Finally, in 2004, after four albums known only to the Christian music scene, they started to get the recognition they deserved. They “hit” the mainstream rock scene with “Collide,” and there has seemed to be a steady theme in their album titles ever since. “Comatose,” “Awake,” “Rise,” etc. The band released their twelfth studio album, “Revolution,” on November 1, 2024.
The album starts with “Showtime,” a song that will surely be a live staple. It features hard-hitting riffs and a catchy chorus. So far, so good. Tracks two and three, “Unpopular” and “All That Matters,” were released as singles earlier this autumn. Lyrically, the songs call to go against the mainstream and stand up for the things most important in life, and for John Cooper, that is his faith, his family, and his freedom. While I respect others and their beliefs, both songs seem far-right. Music tends to unite people, but when songs are written with cultural buzzwords, they will likely alienate many fans. Maybe that’s what John is going for, but even as a Christian and a relatively conservative, I found the lyrics somewhat extreme.
The fourth track, “Not Afraid,” is fast-paced and features one of the best solos I have heard on any Skillet song. Lead guitarist Seth Morrison lets his fingers fly up the fretboard, and I have gained more and more respect for him over the last couple of albums. The title track, “Revolution,” and the band’s second single, “Ash In the Wind,” are upbeat, driving rock songs with catchy choruses.
“Defector” is a groovy, beat-heavy song that keeps Jen Ledger busy behind the kit. Not only is she a powerful drummer, but she manages to multi-task by singing backing vocals simultaneously. I have always loved how Jen’s elegant voice contrasts John’s gritty lead. Skillet is excellent at writing ballads, and this album features one called “Happy Wedding Day (Alex’s song).” I think it’s lovely that John wrote a song dedicated to his relationship with his daughter, but due to its personal nature, it may not connect with every listener. As a dad, however, it makes me think of the simple ways that I will create memories with my daughter. While it’s not my favorite Skillet ballad, it’s still a solid song. The album ends with a groovy song called “Death Defier.”
Overall, I would say this is a weaker effort by a band that usually knocks it out of the park. Maybe the drastic changes have to do with the band departing from their long relationship with Atlantic Records, or maybe in John’s older age, he doesn’t care what the critics or even his listeners think. Either way, Skillet will always hold a dear place in my heart, but this is one album I probably won’t be spinning a lot.
