Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Three piece Skillet release their debut album accompanied by a suitable amount of American hype. An atmospheric tune like the breathy "Saturn" complete with cello and acoustic guitar underlay is a compelling song with its lyrical impact encouraging the listener to realise how God views them. Throughout, spiritual passion is communicated through modern metaphor and these songs are strong on the reality of the struggle. "Gasoline" is a plea for God to set the soul on fire, "My Beautiful Robe" is an energetic new take on the fact that God has taken away our filthy rags! The grungy attack of "Promise Blender" sums up lyrically and musically the agony of failing God yet discovering God is a promise keeper even when we are not. The dense
"Paint" leaps from a whisper to a roar as it explores again through metaphor the need for us to receive life from God. Overall, Skillet come on like good 'uns, rocking in all the right places with the sound that will appeal to those captivated by the sound of modern rock but who want something more positive lyrically than the despair offered by hundreds of mainstream bands. A passionate combination!

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