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SKILLET Unleashes Authentic Metal Power with New EP 'After The Storm'

By Jason •
John Cooper reveals the band's unwavering commitment to authenticity and their powerful crossover appeal in the heavy metal realm.

In a recent no-holds-barred interview with CCM Magazine, SKILLET's frontman John Cooper laid bare the crux of the band's colossal crossover success. With a sound that melds the grit of rock with an unmistakably Christian message, Cooper asserts that their authenticity has been the key to penetrating the walls often erected by genre boundaries. 'I think we were very authentic,' he stated, 'We've always been open about who we are.'

As SKILLET traversed the rocky terrain of the mainstream music landscape, Cooper made a bold choice — to wear their faith on their sleeves unapologetically. 'If someone asks if we’re a Christian band, I say, 'Absolutely. I’m proud to be a Jesus freak.' It’s a declaration of identity, a smackdown to the naysayers, akin to facing the schoolyard bully head-on. It’s about owning your truth from the get-go, and that’s what keeps the haters at bay.

Recalling the early days when their iconic track 'Monster' started to erupt on radio waves, Cooper shared an eye-opening exchange with an interviewer who doubted their Christian roots. 'I said, 'Oh, absolutely. Being a Christian is so much more important to me than being a rock star.' That moment was pivotal, showcasing that the band's mission transcends mere fame; it’s about reverberating their love for God through electrifying music.

With their new EP, 'After The Storm,' set to drop on October 9, SKILLET is gearing up to unleash a torrent of heavy riffs and raw emotions. The six-track offering marks a return to their heavier roots, woven together with themes of betrayal, grief, and the resilient hope that follows. This is not just music; it’s a visceral experience that speaks from the depths of Cooper's soul, encapsulating one of the most vulnerable chapters in his career.

SKILLET's reach has never been more expansive, boasting over 12 million monthly listeners on Spotify, and their anthem 'Monster' has smashed through five billion streams, solidifying its spot in Spotify’s elite Billions Club. Their recent European tour has shattered attendance records, proving that this Christian metal juggernaut is not slowing down anytime soon.

As they prepare for a U.S. headline tour in support of 'After The Storm,' fans can expect a powerful blend of heavier sounds and heartfelt messages that resonate across generations. With over 23 million albums sold and accolades pouring in from every corner, SKILLET is ready to take the heavy metal world by storm once again.