Awake and Alive

The Christian music scene has been growing slowly over the past years. Bands such as Kutlass, Thousand Foot Krutch, Pillar, Newsboys, Flyleaf, among others are just a few of the big name Christian Rock artists pioneering the scene. One exception for me that stands out is another Christian Rock band by the name of Skillet. Interesting name yes, as well as interesting music. All members are very much in touch with their faith, while their songs all mostly relate to that subject matter. Their eighth latest release, Awake, is so far their most successful album up to date. Their most popular song, Monster, also on Awake, has multi-million views on Youtube as well as the album receiving Gold status on the album charts. 


This album is definitely a cross between Hard Rock and Christian Rock. Who says Christian Rock can't be a bit edgy? This album not only has elements of hard rock, but they do keep true to the Christian theme and still keep songs on a listenable ear friendly tone. If you are a fan of violin and strings, I would recommend this for some of their songs have many violin melodies harmonizing with the rock sound. The album also won best Christian Album of 2011 and debuted at #2 on the Billboard Charts. My two favorite tracks off this album are, Awake and Alive, and Never Surrender. Both songs again, are very in touch with their faith and send the same message: Stay in touch with your faith and don't anyone push you around or stop you from believing in what you believe in. Stand up for your faith. The song Awake and Alive was also chosen to appear on the soundtrack for the movie Transformers: Dark of the Moon. This album has received many 4 and 5 star ratings on many critics reviews. By the end of 2011 the album was #4 on the Christian Billboards, #16 on the Rock Billboard, #15 on the Alternative Billboard. I would say that is a huge accomplishment considering the Christian music seen is overshadowed by today's huge mainstream artists. 


Interesting fact, Lead Singer and bassist Jon Cooper, and Female Rhythm Guitar player, Korey Cooper are married. Korey Cooper is from neighboring Kenosha, Wisconsin. No current announcements have been made regarding a new album or new material being written. This album is for those who need inspiration and feel like they want to get in more touch with their faith. Skillet is definitely one of the huge leaders in Christian Rock and will always be a name that sticks out. Many artists disband or get discouraged due to the overwhelming competition that the mainstream music scene has, but Skillet really focuses more on getting a positive message out, rather than trying to become the best and most successful. 


www.skillet.com
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