By Rebecca Clark

Skillet gave an absolutely incredible performance at The Vine at Del Lago on September 13th, marking one of the best shows this venue has ever seen. From the very first note, the band’s energy was magnetic, and it was clear how much they love performing both for the music and for their fans.

The night kicked off with “Surviving the Game”, and lead vocalist and bassist John Cooper immediately took control of the stage, radiating energy and charisma. CO₂ jets blasted streams of fog into the air, adding an intense visual element that perfectly complemented the power of the music. The crowd was instantly hooked.

The momentum carried straight into “Feel Invincible” and “Rise.” Behind the drum kit, Jen Ledger was a whirlwind of energy, her beats driving the band forward while her soaring vocals elevated every song she sang. On guitar and keys, Korey Cooper brought a style and intensity all her own, her purple hair flying, her rad boots and skirt adding to her stage presence, and her performance effortlessly blending skill with charisma. Lead guitarist Seth Morrison shredded through solos with precision and power, interacting with the crowd and connecting with his bandmates in a way that made the performance feel seamless and alive.

One of the most visually spectacular moments came during “Awake & Alive.” John used CO₂ arm cannons to spray the audience, literally awakening the crowd, while hydraulic risers lifted Korey and Seth, adding to the drama and intensity. The song’s title perfectly matched the feeling in the room, the audience truly felt awake and alive.

But Skillet’s show was more than just theatrics. John took a moment to speak to the crowd, sharing a heartfelt and vulnerable message:

“I’m not gonna preach or nothing like that, but, man, our country is in a hard time right now. We have got to learn how to love each other better and to listen to each other better. Oh my God, It’s so bad. My heart just breaks. I hate it. I had a lot of demons when I was growing up, and music always helped me and I know I’m not the only one. Music gave me hope when I felt like there was nothing else to go to.”

He encouraged everyone to reach out to friends and family, a reminder that music can heal, connect, and bring hope in challenging times.

A stripped-down version of “Never Surrender” created one of the night’s most intimate and powerful moments. Korey’s keys carried the melody as the entire audience sang along, phones lighting up the room, creating a sense of unity that was almost spiritual. During “Hero,” Jen stepped out from behind the drum kit to share lead vocals with John. Seeing her interact with the crowd was heartwarming, and the CO₂ jets punctuated the performance beautifully.

The energy ramped back up for “Comatose,” with Morrison and Tate Olsen on hydraulic lifts and Korey on keys, showing off the band’s showmanship. During “Monster,” John leaned into the crowd, connecting with fans in a raw and intense way. They closed the set with “The Resistance”, with John thanking the audience for their dedication over the years, a fitting end as the band prepares to celebrate 30 years together next year.

Throughout the night, Skillet’s combination of energy, musicianship, and genuine connection made the experience feel both exhilarating and cathartic. In a week weighed down by heaviness in the world, their performance served as a reminder that music can create a safe haven, a place to feel alive, uplifted, and united. Skillet truly cooked up good vibes, serving a full helping of high-energy rock while leaving fans centered, inspired, and filled with hope.

Setlist:

• Surviving the Game
• Invincible
• Rise
• Awake & Alive
• Sick of It
• Legendary
• Ash in the Wind
• Never Surrender
• Whispers
• Lions-Those Nights
• Hero
• Not Gonna Die
• Unpopular
• Psycho in My Head
• Comatose
• Monster
• Resistance

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