Rise

Rise" is Skillet's magnum opus. It's perhaps the best album that they will ever create. Musically it incorporates Skillet's entire body of work from the early electronic influences to the harder edge of "Collide" to the symphonic rock found on the most recent albums, yet all these elements work together to relentlessly push "Rise" into new places. The effect of everything hitting at once is visceral--tangible. Thankfully, I'm no longer the painfully strange middle schooler who latched onto the crying angst and loneliness found in Skillet albums like "Collide;" however, I believe I'm always going be asking questions like "How can evil like that exist in this world", or "What is my place" to "How on earth am I going to get through this day." These questions and answers have always been the core of John Cooper's writing; however "Rise" puts these messages into a logical progression and flow that makes them even more powerful. "Rise" is not a rock opera or concept album in the way many people are probably used to---probably because most of types of albums always seem so forced. However, it is in fact a concept album divided into three separate chapters. It's not so much a story as an emotional journey as seen through the perspective of a young teenager. The first act is about a kind of naive brashness and optimism ("Rise" to "Not Gonna Die"). The second act is really a horror and growing awareness of the world ("Circus for a Psycho" to "Madness in Me"), and the third act is about redemption and hope (everything after "MiM"). Now a casual listener could totally hear a few singles, and get a pretty good idea of the message of "Rise"--as well as thoroughly enjoy those singles--but I do strongly suggest listening at least twice to the entire album in progression for the full impact of the writing. Also, one need not be a Christian or even particularly religious to both be moved by this album as well as enjoy it for being a killer rock record. It's very telling that in 2012, only three "rock" bands achieved platinum status (if you're seriously counting Mumford and the Black Keys as rock bands along there with Skillet). That's not to say though that Skillet hides their Christianity in any way though. From quoting Bible verses to explicit Christ references, it's very clear that John's answers to the aforementioned questions are found in a deep and abiding trust in Christ. Musically, "Rise" is aggressive and loud. John Cooper is simply one of the most intense rock performers still active who is also out on the road for the majority of the year. You can hear his passion and skill honed by countless performances in the past 20 plus years he's been professionally creating music. The addition of Seth Morrison on lead guitar was almost certainly a factor in kicking up the edge in "Rise", as Seth lets loose with several mean riffs. John's wife Korey is always a solid presence, adding depth and complexity with both her backing vocals that blend so well with John as well as her skill on multiple instruments. Jen Ledger is still simply a wunderkind on the drums, able to flawlessly move from crashing thunderclaps to providing the fragile heartbeat to the music. She also has an expanded role on this album, sharing more lead vocal duties with John. It's extremely rare to have a rock band integrate two powerful female rock musicians as simply integral members of the band as opposed to just the lead singer or eye candy. Too often I feel like the male/female divide in rock is akin to the "separate but equal" philosophy, where the best of the best are usually in all one gender bands. It's great to see that turned on it's head with Skillet. Jen also provided the exquisite album artwork which so beautifully encapsulates the message of "Rise." I think everyone still sort of feels like a little kid sometimes, facing the world-- feeling like all you have is your slingshot and not sure if you can actually take down Goliath. "Rise" is no doubt one of if not the rock release of the year. It's unapologetic in it's message, yet any appreciator of rock music can find something to love about it. For fans of Seether, Three Days Grace, Red, Thousand Foot Krutch, Breaking Benjamin, and even bands like Paramore. ***Definitely recommend the deluxe version, as one of my favorite songs "Battle Cry" is a bonus track. Other song standouts: the very different for Skillet "My Religion" which has touches of almost rockabilly and "Salvation" where John and Jen trade vocals with lush orchestration.

I first became a fan of Skillet with "Comatose", which was an absolutely beautiful CD; a masterpiece. Needless to say, I was stoked when "Awake" came out, with the singles such as 'Hero' and 'Monster' It was a bit of a disappointment, however. It was good, but as a follow-up to "Comatose", it was wanting. Thus, when I heard that "Rise" was coming out, I became cautiously hopeful. I was not disappointed. "Rise" represents the culmination of the years as the band has matured. This CD stands very well as a concept album. It is very cohesive. It contains the elements Comatose that made Skillet what they are today, such as the strings, the male/female vocals, and the majestic tunes. It contains elements of what Skillet used to be when they released "Invincible" and "Alien Youth." But they don't stick with what they were. They bring in new elements that complement what they already have, making a quite impressive release. In addition, I found that they are much more on point lyrically than they were with "Awake." It seemed that with "Awake," they tried to convey the feelings of young people growing up in this world, but didn't discuss a solution to these problems, with the exception of perhaps 'Hero' and 'Forgiven.' As Christians, they know the only true and lasting solution to the problems people experience. This is much more apparent with "Rise." With almost every song, they point to Christ as the source of peace and life that we must turn to if we are to survive in this world. Thus, this album has a much more hopeful feel than "Awake" does. Now I can't simply provide a holistic review, though this CD more than most deserves one. Each song has its own elements of uniqueness, so I think the CD also deserves a song-by-song review: 1. RISE (5/5): This song begins the CD on such a good note, much like 'Hero' did for "Awake" and 'Rebirthing' did for "Comatose." It is musically in a similar vein, incorporating strings, male/female vocals, and driving guitars. They did something more with the song, though. At the end, they incorporate sound bites that demonstrate the state of our world. That coupled with the children's chorus and the piano make for an incredibly haunting end and transition to 'Sick of It.' This song is a beautiful start to the CD. 2. SICK OF IT (4/5): When Skillet released this song, I really liked it, but I fervently hoped they weren't selling out and putting a CD where every song is just like this. It's a great song, and it does very well as a radio single, but musically it is rather stripped down. It follows 'Rise' very well, though, continuing the theme introduced at the end of 'Rise.' It is the perfect song to get pumped up for the rest of the album. In addition, this is the first song in which we hear synth effects, which really haven't been used since "Alien Youth." 3. GOOD TO BE ALIVE (3.5/5): This is the first downturn on the CD. It's catchy, but a little more generic than the other songs on the CD. I like the lyrics, which proclaim the beauty found in a life lived with Christ. This song benefits, I think because of the company it keeps. If it were on another CD, it probably wouldn't go over well, but as a part of the whole that is "Rise," it contributes to the masterpiece. The brightest part of this song is another ending/transition section. It starts out with a little girl singing in a minor key and builds into the next song 'Not Gonna Die.' They way they did this transition, with the choir and the synth and piano, gives me chills. It really is an excellent lead into the next song. 4. NOT GONNA DIE (5/5): This is another very Comatose-esque song, complete with strings and majesty. I love Jen Ledgers vocals in this song. She is being given a larger vocal role in this album, and it becomes the band very well. This song also includes some subtle synth effects which do nothing but complement the song. They do a very good job of transitioning from the sadness and hopelessness at the end of GTBA into the hopefulness and strength in the chorus. I absolutely love this song. 5. CIRCUS FOR A PSYCHO (5/5): As the name indicates, this is a raucous piece that kind of breaks the majesty of last song. When I say break, I don't mean it negatively. This song is an excellent headbanger, reminiscent of 'Monster' from "Awake." The song starts by showcasing Seth Morrison's skill as a lead guitarist. I think he is a good fit with Skillet and will continue to add a great deal to the band. The guitar solo in the middle of the song also shows off Seth's skill. He is good. The song ends with a cacophonous collection of sounds which transition well into the next song. 6. AMERICAN NOISE (4/5): When this song was released, I wasn't too impressed. It seemed like the type of generic slow song that was all to prevalent on "Awake." However, I shouldn't have been so quick to judge. When placed after CFAP, it becomes a good song. The peace of this song complements the dissonance and raucous energy of CFAP perfectly. After hearing this song in context, I find that I quite like it. 7. MADNESS IN ME (4.5/5): The CD doesn't stay peaceful for long. Right after 'American Noise' comes 'Madness in Me,' which is somewhat similar to 'Sick Of It.' It contains some nice, driving guitar riffs and begins with the synth effects. It's not one of the best songs on the CD, but that is in no way bad. It is a good addition to the storyline of the CD. This song contains a transition consisting almost of Ledgers vocals. This transition keeps this song from being generic and explicitly describes the thrust of the CD, that is salvation found in Christ. 8. SALVATION (4.5/5): At this point, the songs begin to explicitly describe the Christian faith, which is quite refreshing. 'Salvation' is quite beautiful. Jen Ledger sings the verses exclusively, which is a nice addition. The lyrics are beautiful, reminiscent of 'Forgiven' from "Awake." The chorus is a little generic musically, but the rest of the song makes up for that. 9. FIRE AND FURY (5/5): This song is absolutely beautiful I love the lilting vocals in this song. They make the song. In this song as well, Jen takes a large vocal role. She has a beautiful voice. There really isn't anything I can say that can do this song justice. You'll have to listen to it for yourself. 10. MY RELIGION (5/5): This is probably the most unique song on the whole CD. I don't think I have ever heard Skillet try a bluesy style before, but they do it here. This song is excellent. I think Johns raspy vocals complement the style well. This song actually includes a gospel-style organ, which is quite cool. If that wasn't good enough, the song also includes a part of the song 'Amazing Grace.' This is one of my favorites on the CD. 11. HARD TO FIND (4/5): This song is a beautiful song, if less raw than the last song. It does a good job of beginning to draw the album to a close. The lyrics are quite good, describing the difficulty in finding faith and the sufficiency of Christ. 12. WHAT I BELIEVE (4.5/5): This song starts out with the type of strings that we know so well from "Awake" songs like 'Awake and Alive' and 'Forgiven.' The tone of this song is very hopeful, and is a very fitting end to the CD. With this song we complete a path that led through darkness to light to a reaffirmation of faith that can only be arrived at through Christ. This CD presents a story that all Christians can relate to. In addition, people who are in the middle of the darkness can find through this story that there is hope in the end for all who put their faith and trust in Christ. This CD is definitely a magnam opus for Skillet. It contains old elements as well as new untested styles that kind of shake up our impression of Skillet and show that they are still capable of greatness. I don't know if they will be able to top this one, but I greatly look forward to seeing them try.

It's a shame Amazon's star rating system only goes up to 5 because I gladly would've given this 10,15,heck just name a number.This is without a doubt Skillet's best work yet and that's saying something because I loved each of their last 3 albums before Rise.I wasn't sure what to expect when I heard this was going to be a "concept record",but it sure delivered far beyond my expectations.This tells a beautiful story from track 1-12.From this world is messed up let's do something about it on the title track Rise to being fed up with things and wanting change on Sick Of It.Then trying to find the good in things on Good To Be Alive.Then admitting it's a struggle to survive sometimes on Not Gonna Die which perfectly sums up everything Skillet does more awesomely than any other band on earth - impactful lyrics with booming drum and guitars and symphonic sounds added as well!Unbelievable song! Anyway the next few songs describe the things we all struggle with.From the pressures of other people on Circus For a Psycho to the background noise and distractions described on American Noise to the battle within against our own selves on Madness In Me these are the things we all fight against.What can the answer possibly be?The album builds to a crescendo with Salvation.The answer for all those things described in crying out to Jesus.Only he can save us from all this stuff.Salvation is a desperate cry to the only One who can save.He will always answer our cries any time we reach out... It's then the album takes a turn.Now saved the believer can feel God's all consuming fire as described on the great pseudo ballad Fire And Fury.The comes My Religion,an impactful description of a real relationship with God,not the empty religion church people often settle for.Then comes Hard To Find,an honest admission of the fact that life even as a believer is a struggle sometimes and we go through things we just don't understand.Still God is there and we can find strength even when faith is hard to find.Then finally the album closes with What I Believe,a powerful symphonic rock testimony.I may not be able to fix the problems I see.I'm only one person and I don't understand all the pain around me,or within me,but I still believe in God and that belief gives me hope.A perfect way to close an amazing story told throughout this album. In closing,everything about Rise is just amazing!John Cooper's powerful singing,Jen Ledger's drums and background vocals (She sings a lot more on this album - Also a huge plus!) Even the booming lead guitar of new guitarist Seth Morrison shines through,especially on track 5.I bought this on the day it came out,June 25, and have listened to it many times since.Ordered it for a Christmas present for a friend through Amazon and that gave me an excuse to write this lengthy review.This is my all time favorite cd by any artist ever!High praise I know,but it's true.Rise solidifies Skillet's spot as my favorite band in all of music!

I've been a Skillet fan for a long time - and their growth in popularity over the past five years made me unsure what to expect for their latest album Rise. Would Skillet cater to a "popular" audience? The answer - and the album - is a resounding no! As a band - Skillet has never been more cohesive or sounded better. Not sure if the hidden secret is Jen Ledger who burst on the scene with Hero from Skillet's last album - or Seth Morrison who records with Skillet for the first time. So what is Skillet? For starters - a great rock band. There's a reason they can tour confidently with bands like Shinedown - they rock! New to this album - shredding! Going from the solo in "Not Gonna Die" to the guitar frenetics of "Circus for a Psycho" - the guitar has never been more prominent in this band. Fret not - fans of the "Comatose" sounds! Skillet knows their hard string sound (Comatose, Rebirthing, Awake and Alive) has become a trademark - so much so that their two touring string players have their pictures taken and autographs signed almost as much as the rest of the band. That signature sound continues here - especially on the epic "Not Gonna Die." Like most recent Skillet albums - this sound is mixed with other John Cooper influences (his favorite 80s ballads) like American Noise. But even with the growth in fans, and record sales, and awareness - Skillet has not left its foundation. In 2012 at Summerfest in Milwaukee, John Cooper proclaimed in front of thousands of fans on the rock stage the words from Romans 1:16 - "For I am not ashamed of the Gospel!" Rise is perhaps the most overt of Christian albums for Skillet - perhaps since Ardent Worship. Although one could take a song like Hero from Awake - or Fire and Fury from Rise - and apply their own meaning - songs like "Salvation" and "What I Believe" from Rise leave little question where Skillet's heart lies. Song for song - word for word - my favorite Skillet album. Not the best Skillet album ever - just the best yet!

This is a solid album from Skillet, and a much better follow-up to "Comatose" than "Awake" was. With this album, the band offers a good amount of variety by structuring the singles into a story. Many of the singles end with a prelude into the next song, rewarding the listener with more rich content, while also helping tie together a cohesive narrative. There is a nice amount of variety and atmosphere across the album, keeping the entire experience fresh and engaging throughout. My only complaint comes from the lack of consistency in the quality of each single. Some singles, like "Rise", "Circus of Psychos", and "Not Gonna Die" are certainly of higher quality than other singles in the album, such as "American Voice", "Good to be Alive", and "My Religion". After my first listen through, I often find myself skipping many songs in the album, which is a shame. Can't say this is the best album the band has released, but for what it is, it's definitely worth a full listen, for its movie-like presentation and many of its high quality singles. Also, if you have the funds, I'd recommend picking up the Deluxe Edition, as it comes with two singles that add to the experience.

Skillet Rise CD is truly an amazing music CD with powerful lyrics and emotions that make you proud to stand up for Faith, Religion. I can honestly say just like the CD Awake I enjoyed every song on this CD also start to finish. The band mixes religious lyrics songs with softer rock songs plus showing how strong relationships play in shaping your life's journey with that person you care deeply for. Songs like American Noise, Fire and Fury show that emotion of a relationship bond so strong impacts you day in and day out, example "Let Love cut threw the American Noise" and "Burn within me with Fire and Fury." Then feel good songs like Circus for a Psycho and My Religion that you want to sing along to the lyrics because there that good or even dance to the music on My Religion kind like a swinging type music from back in the day. Then of course there are the songs like Madness in Me and Sick of It that show the dark period in your life and strong emotions in the lyrics showing you that you just need to fight threw it and believe in yourself to make yourself better. Then in my viewpoint you have six songs that relate to Religion featuring Rise, Good to be Alive, Not Gonna Die, Salvation, Hard to Find, and What I Believe. Rise is one of my favorites on the CD because of the lyrics feature line "Keep what you Love." Then Not Gonna Die feature line "Whatever doesn't Kill Me makes me stronger" which truly believe in that phrase. Then last the song Hard to Find feature line "Faith is Hard to Find" which now a days is true on so manly levels. True Faith is in your Heart, Mind, Body and Soul. In closing if your a fan of Skillet and there powerful religious lyrics mixed with strong emotions and showing there fans is good to stand up for yourself and be proud of Religion and believe in God because he is there for you threw it all "good times and bad times."

I am so mad I payed 25 bucks for this CD on 2 day shipping. I didn't know it would come out in MP3 Format. However as for the deluxe version....its worth it. Hey at least I got the Awake and Alive DVD as part of the package...epic! Man, oh man where to start? The four singles that released Sick of It, Not Gonna Die, Rise and American Noise gave indications to a good, possibly great album but Salvation, Hard To Find, My Religion, and Circus for a Psycho confirm it! This is so beyond 5 stars! The only song that seems almost out of place musically and lyrically is Everything Goes Black. Still not getting it but maybe it will grow on me with time. It is techno, soft in spots, but when it needs to rock this album delivers. Just a warning though..bring a kleenex for Salvation and Hard to Find and especially What I believe. This album is being compared to Awake but what's wrong with that?(those nights reference) That album certainly helped Skillet gain the most fans of any album they've produced. This album is destined to be another classic. The lyrics are solid and reminds me of Third Day's Move, Toby Mac's Eye On It, Michael W. Smith's Healing Rain and Switchfoot's Vice Verses in that it seems to hit that perfect balance of message and music. When I first heard Skillet which was last year at Winterjam 2012, which seems so long ago, that's when I got to hear them for the first time. These guys rock but aren't afraid to spread God's love and salvation through Jesus Christ and yet at the same time have so much fun. I get to hear these guys again at Kingsfest 2013 which starts the day after tomorrow!! So amped! Only difference this time is their music will be only days old versus years old lol!!!

Skillet's best work yet. I can't stop listening to it! I've followed Skillet since Invincible (5 albums ago), and my previous favorite was Comatose. If you've heard Skillet before and like Comatose or Awake or even Alien Youth, you'll probably like this. The music is good and poingnant and I think it makes a cohesive whole to listen to the entire album in one sitting, without jumping around. In my opinion, Skillet has always been good at getting the album as a whole to mean more and something different than any of the songs singly, and they do that here. Get the deluxe version, though; the extra songs are great, and Freakshow is my absolute favorite because it mirrors my own sentiments; I don't have to look the part of a 'good Christian' to be just as devoted and in love with God as you are, maybe even more so. I don't fit into the stereotype and never have, but so what? I love God on my own terms, and it's nice sometimes to hear that I'm not alone in that regard. Don't judge the entire CD on American Noise, though, because most of the songs sound differently than that one. Instead, listen to Sick of It, Not Gonna Die or Circus for a Psycho. If you like any of those, you will love this album.