Skillet's John Cooper Discusses Church Break and New EP 'After the Storm'
Skillet released its six-song EP After the Storm on Oct. 9 as the Christian rock band marks its 30th anniversary. Frontman John Cooper said the project addresses hurt, betrayal, mental health and hope after a difficult period. The EP was inspired by his fractured relationship with a church he and his family had helped build.
Skillet marks 30 years this month with After the Storm, a six-track EP released Oct. 9. Frontman John Cooper says the songs confront pain, betrayal, depression and mental-health struggles while holding onto hope, a theme reflected in the title.
The record grew from Cooper's painful break with a church he and his family helped establish and attended for years. Skillet—Cooper, Korey Cooper, Jen Ledger and Seth Morrison—continues its U.S. Comatose 20 Years, Still Screaming Tour through Nov. 10.
The EP may resonate with Christian and mainstream rock listeners who have experienced institutional hurt or mental-health struggles. By tying hope to faith while criticizing rigid church cultures, Cooper could help normalize candid discussions about betrayal and depression in religious settings. Its impact may remain cultural rather than political, offering comfort to fans and encouraging congregations to reflect on how they treat dissent and wounded members.