Skillet: John Cooper (vocals, bass); Ben Kasica (acoustic guitar); Korey Cooper (piano, keyboards, programming, samples); Lori Peters (drums).
Like contemporaries P.O.D. and Pillar, Skillet plays a bone-shaking, completely uncompromising brand of nu-metal that upon first glance offers very little indication of the group's evangelical Christian beliefs. Musically, the band plows some of the same ground as melodic neo-grunge groups such as Nickelback and Trapt, yet adds a conviction, raw energy, and experimental edge that takes its cue from earlier, more progressive bands such as Jane's Addiction, Nine Inch Nails, and Tool. Lead vocalist/bassist John Cooper's lyrics, though clearly faith-based, ironically represent some of the most chillingly direct and angst-driven songwriting this side of Nirvana. Backed by a mix of highly rhythmic de-tuned guitars, speed metal-style drum fills, and a plethora of spooky industrial-style samples, Cooper drives home his inspirational message with a tortured howl that equals any of his secular contemporaries. minimize