Skillet played at Portland’s Roseland Theater, but not before openers Ledger and From Ashes To New kicked things off. If the name Ledger sounds familiar, it’s because Jen Ledger is Skillet’s drummer. She’s also an incredible vocalist as evidenced in her work with Skillet. But since 2018, she’s been spreading her wings and showing us that she has more to share with the world. Ledger delivered a heavy set with a definite hard rock sound, yet uniquely unlike her work with Skillet.
From Ashes To New took over where Ledger left off and delivered a passionate performance. Their rap rock sound was a significant contrast to Ledger’s opening set, but as vocalist Matt Brandyberry said, “crowds turning out for this tour seem to embrace all the bands. You don’t always get that. What we all have in common though is that there is a message in our music. Be yourself, love yourself, believe in a higher power.” During the performance of “My Name”, about mid-way through the song, lead singer Danny Case stopped the song. “Hey, can we start this thing over”, he said. “It’s so dark we can’t even see what we’re doing up here.” The house lights came up, illuminating the sold-out Roseland. From Ashes To New played two more before giving up the stage for the night.
Skillet came out and just punched everyone in the face with “Feel Invincible”. I wouldn’t say that any moshing took place, but there was definitely some movement as the packed room jostled to get closer to the barricade. Any doubts that Skillet could put on an energetic and passionate performance even now after 23 years of performing were quickly set aside. Singer John Cooper even discussed the origins of Skillet, their goofy name, and living the dream. Tales were told, tales of when he was young and he would “get to my room without my dad seeing me. Put those headphones on, not these new things that fall out of your ears, but the big ones, and Metallica would make everything go away”. Before the band played “Hero”, John also shared a story about Chester Bennington and how even though they had never met that he felt a special bond with him. He went on to talk about how “Every one of you is valuable and the world would be worse off without you. I know this because you are all made in the image of God.”
A particularly inspirational moment during the show was their performance of “Stars”. Although I hadn’t seen the song listed in set lists from previous shows, I’m glad that it was included in Portland. All four band members as well as touring cellist Tate Olson were seated across the Roseland Theater stage. Acoustic guitars in hand, Corey Cooper and Seth Morrison strummed along while John and Jen delivered perfectly harmonized vocals.
The message of faith throughout the performance was a strong one. And despite each individual’s beliefs, there was an underlying message of unity. No matter your race, religion, or gender, we are all united through music. Skillet put on an incredible show.
