Photo Credit: Jimmy Fontaine
I have made no secret that I’m a huge fan of Skillet, ever since I first saw them live over 15 years ago. My kids grew up loving them with me, making their concerts a family event. This past August it was announced, that after 20 years, they were breaking ties with Atlantic Records, and the upcoming album will be released on their own label. This was definitely exciting news to fans!
Revolution is their 12th studio album, and the first release of their Hear It Loud label. Being true to the Skillet sound, the album is packed with songs that are explosive, and thought provoking, mixed in with a couple softer, intricate songs that cause a tear or two. One of the first releases, “Unpopular”, is already popular on XM Radio’s Octane channel. With it’s adrenaline pumping intro, this song is an anthem for those that stand up for what they believe. In today’s society, standing up for yourself and your beliefs can be an unpopular choice. Frontman John Cooper makes his point clear in this song. “I won’t apologize when I speak my mind / I’m just bein’ me, so lay off / If thinkin’ for myself is called raisin’ Hell / I guess that I’m an outlaw, whoo”. Young people especially, should feel encouraged after hearing this, realizing it’s ok to be unpopular. I love the whole “so what” attitude of the song, complete with its own verse. “Guess I’m the one you’ve been talking about / Whatever.”
This same theme is echoed in the song “All That Matters”. Instead of attitude with this one, we get a strong, fierce, feeling. It starts off slow, until the chorus brings in an emotional fierceness that John Cooper evokes with his voice. “These three things I’d die for / My faith, my family, my freedom / That’s what’s backin’ me / Gives me a reason for living / I gotta fight for what I believe in / believe it.” The music with this one is toned down a bit, which brings focus to the passion in Cooper’s voice. In modern society, where there is little importantance placed on such things, it is very clear why there is so much emotion in this song.
There is one song on this album that got me a little teary eyed, and I feel part of the reason is that same emotional passion. “Happy Wedding Day (Alex’s Song)” was written for John and Korey Cooper’s daughter, Alexandria, who got married earlier this year. Hearing this song, and thinking of my own daughter, it was one of those mom memories moments. It’s beautifully written, with subtle music accompanying the lyrics. I foresee this being used at a lot of weddings! Parents, keep the tissue handy for this one!
Revolution is being released in November, and Skillet is already on tour supporting it. This aptly named album starts a new chapter for the band as they start their new label. Panheads around the world are eagerly waiting to see what’s in store for their band on this journey. This Panhead Mom thinks it’s going to be a fantastic beginning to the next chapter!
I’m Music Magazine Photographer/Writer Michele Hancock
