SKILLET Turns Up the Heat: New Music in 2026 to Launch the Band’s “New Era”

American Band Skillet Prepares a New Chapter in Their Career. Frontman John Cooper recently confirmed in an interview that Skillet is working on new material, scheduled for release in 2026 — symbolically marking the band's 30th anniversary.

According to Cooper, this won't just be another album, but rather a creative reset. The band wants to write songs they feel a strong personal connection to and recapture the energy that helped build their name. Several new songs are already complete, and the direction is said to be clear.

Hints of the new sound appeared with last year's Christmas single "O Come, O Come Emmanuel", where Skillet explored heavier riffs and lower tunings. Cooper admitted that the band hasn't recorded such heavy material since perhaps the early 2000s. These metal-oriented elements are expected to feature prominently on the upcoming album.

Alongside the heavier sound, Skillet is also embracing progressive metal influences, which are increasingly reflected in both their live shows and studio work. The band is revisiting older inspirations while transforming them into a modern, fresh sound.

The new album will follow Revolution (2024), Skillet's first independent release under their own label, Hear It Loud. Greater studio freedom appears to be a major factor shaping the direction of their new work.

Skillet also plan live performances in 2026, including European shows where the new material will be performed. If all goes according to plan, fans can expect an anniversary year marked by heavier sounds and a continued evolution of the band.

📍 Prague – Forum Karlín
📅 9 May 2026
🕕 18:30

🎟️ Tickets via Ticketportal (sold out)