Skillet

Jannus Live, St. Petersburg, FL – May 1, 2025

4.9/5

Written by: Mike Laxton (May 9, 2025)

On Thursday, May 1, Christian rock powerhouse Skillet brought their signature fire to Jannus Live in downtown St. Petersburg, FL, for an unforgettable night of music, memories, and ministry. Known for their intense live shows and bold faith, the band did not disappoint—delivering a set that blended fan favorites with deep cuts, all with their trademark energy and passion.

While Skillet is no stranger to Florida stages—most recently performing at Winter Jam in Tampa earlier this year—this show had a different flavor. It marked my first visit to Jannus Live, and I couldn’t think of a better way to experience the venue than by watching one of my favorite bands light up the stage. Located just a short walk from nearby parking, the venue quickly filled with a diverse crowd sporting Skillet merch and buzzing with anticipation.

Before doors opened, we were greeted by a few surprise interactions—petitioners advocating for marijuana legalization, which sparked some light-hearted commentary from fellow concertgoers. It felt a bit ironic given the faith-based crowd Skillet draws, but also highlighted the unique mix of attendees drawn to their music—faithful fans and mainstream rock lovers alike. And that’s part of what makes Skillet so impactful: their ability to reach across audiences without ever compromising their message.

After a local opener, Discord Theory, warmed up the crowd with a clean (though not faith-based) set, we had the honor of briefly catching up with Skillet backstage. We chatted about Winter Jam, shared a few laughs, and grabbed some quick photos—an experience made possible thanks to the band’s management team, who also generously secured our tickets and access for media coverage.

As the lights dimmed and the opening notes of “Showtime” hit, the crowd erupted. While the venue didn’t allow for pyro, the band didn’t need it—their raw performance alone was electric. The setlist pulled heavily from their last several albums, including Rise, Awake, Victorious, and Dominion: Day of Destiny. “Feel Invincible,” “Awake and Alive,” and “Sick of It” energized the crowd early on, and longtime fans were treated to gems like “Whispers in the Dark” and the nostalgic “Those Nights” from the Comatose album.

That last one held personal significance for my wife and me—it’s “our song,” one we connected with deeply in the early days of our relationship. Hearing it live for the first time in years reminded me why I’ve followed Skillet so faithfully all this time.

Cellist Tate Olsen added powerful layers to songs like “Awake and Alive” and “The Resistance,” bringing a unique orchestral dynamic that Skillet fans know and love. The band’s use of risers and stage theatrics kept the energy high throughout the 75-minute set, even without fire or flames. And yes—if you’ve never seen their riser routine live, it’s an absolute must.

Between tracks, frontman John Cooper didn’t shy away from speaking truth. Before launching into “Hero,” he proclaimed Jesus as his hero, a bold and beautiful declaration that drew cheers from the majority of the crowd. In an age where many artists shy away from discussing faith publicly, Skillet stands unapologetically on the truth of Romans 1:16: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel…” That courage is part of what continues to set them apart.

The night closed with some of their biggest anthems: “Legendary,” “Monster,” and “The Resistance,” the latter of which left the crowd chanting in unison. By the end, it was clear—Skillet had once again delivered a night of powerful music, heartfelt moments, and a message of hope that resonates far beyond the stage.

Though the venue was standing-room only on a concrete floor, the weather was pleasant, the crowd was respectful, and the overall vibe was electric yet family-friendly. It’s safe to say I’ll be back to Jannus Live—and I’ll always show up for Skillet when they come through town.