Acorn

Skillet, a band known for their ever-evolving sound, did not disappoint with their seventh album, 'Comatose.' Since the release of their self-titled debut in 1996, the band has provided their fans, also known as Panheads, with a gamut of music ranging from catchy pop beats to gritty industrial riffs.

Skillet is relatively unknown by the mainstream audience, but they are a common name in the Christian rock community. Their message of hope shines through in the lyrics even though they never mention 'God' or 'Jesus.'

Non-believers should not dismiss this band because their unique style and infectious sound is easily accessible.

The current lineup consists of four incredibly talented musicians. Frontman and bassist, John Cooper, composes the majority of the lyrics and music.

His wife, Korey Cooper, plays the keyboard and adds her lovely vocals. Guitarist Ben Kasica supplies the rockin guitar solos and soft, acoustic pieces.

Rounding out the quartet is hard-hitting drummer Lori Peters.

The CD, released on Oct. 3, provides a refreshing blend of experimental sound. The album is an eclectic mix of alternative rock riffs, acoustics and classically influenced strings in the vein of Evanescence.

Energetic vibes flow from the rock anthems included on this CD. One of the best songs is 'Rebirthing.' This track begins with a pronounced orchestral arrangement, which then progresses to have electric guitar superimposed over the strings. The song continues in this manner, keeping the listener hooked from first note to last.

The lyrics about being on the verge of change are attention-grabbing: "The worst is the waiting. In this womb I'm suffocating." Skillet shows they can not only rock, but also skillfully tone down their music through low-key selections that sound like a cross between Lifehouse and Switchfoot.

'Yours to Hold' is one of the stronger non-rock pieces. This song about unrequited love, with its acoustic edge and beautiful lyrics, freshly articulates the universal sentiment: "I'm stretching, but you're just out of reach. You should know I'm ready when you're ready for me. I'm waiting for the right time, for the day I catch your eye to let you know that I'm yours to hold.'

The weaker track on the album is 'Say Goodbye.' This power ballad deals with a breakup.

It did not bring a fresh voice to the common subject and added a depressing tone to the album.

The one redeeming quality of the song is the line, "I hope that you're always happy like we were," because it shows that a bad situation can end on a positive note.The last song, "Looking for Angels,' is an interesting addition because it is essentially a spoken poem set to music.

It is reminiscent of listening to a poetry reading at a caf'in the city. John Cooper says the words while a simple, barely audible beat plays in the background.

Contrary to what the title suggests, this album is anything but dormant. �Comatose� is a great musical find with a unique blend of sound that can�t be pinned to one genre.

Its lyrics are easy to relate to yet thought-provoking. The songs spur listeners to action, both in the mosh pit and in the world. In need of a wake-up call? Try �Comatose.�

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