Alien Youth (CD - 2001)

Lori Peters (drums).

Additional personnel includes: Kevin Haaland (guitar); Nikki Frey, Teresa Pingitore (violin); Wendy Brookes (cello).

Skillet: John L. Cooper (vocals, bass instrument, programming, sampler); Ben Kasica (guitar); Korey Cooper (keyboards, programming, sampler, background vocals); Lori Peters (drums).

With the release of their fourth studio opus, entitled Alien Youth, the band Skillet establishes themselves as true pioneers in progressive Christian music. While prior releases seemed to feel their way through the dark, Alien Youth finds the light switch. The title cut kicks off the disc with splendor, as heavy, distorted guitars drive the tune into an alternative peak. "Vapor" offers much the same heaviness, as Jon Cooper sings through a wall of guitars at the chorus. When the band lies back in favor of acoustic guitars and programmed drums, they seem to be at their best. "You Are My Hope" is a cut that takes you places without leaving your seat. Here, the band utilizes well-placed backup vocals and an inspiring chorus to shine. The same is true for the cut "One Real Thing." On the song, Jon Cooper trades vocal passages with his wife and keyboardist, Kory Cooper. The tune is guided with a light synth and straightforward bass riff that leave just enough air for guitar harmonics to flavor the background. Ending the disc is a cut that permeates the soul. "Come My Way" is a piano-driven melody with awe-inspired lyrics. Cooper's vocals, when mixed with his wife, Kory's, are chilling. Alien Youth isn't just a great record; it serves as a voice to a generation of those seeking answers. ~ Steven Douglas Losey

With souped-up grunge guitar riffs, neo-industrial synth lines and electronica-influenced production touches, ALIEN YOUTH is the product of a hard-hitting, contemporary industrial rock quartet. The catch is, these guys and girls are as hardcore about their Christianity as they are about their music. Unlike Creed, who have a spiritual subtext to their heavy rock, Skillet makes no bones about their intentions. They proselytize like there's no tomorrow, presenting young believers like themselves as the "alien youth" of this album's title. The main focus of the lyrics is to invite and encourage others to take up the mantle of faith. The young people to whom this message is directed will be at least as intrigued by the band's churning, hook-filled sound as by the spiritual intentions of the lyrics, but that's just the way Skillet seems to want it. minimize