Amanda: There are a lot of amazing rock options this year! Ledger is up for possible awards in at least four different categories this year and she absolutely deserves it. Ledger, Fireflight, and Zahna all bring a female powerhouse presence to the rock categories for 2018 that is absolutely empowering.

Paul: Good point. More often than not, female rockers don't get the accolades they deserve. But, as you pointed out, female rockers are making their presence known. At any rate, I believe Zahna and LEDGER are among the first female rockers that'll show up in the future. What I also notice on the nom list is the lack of "electro rock." Instead, I see noms who belt out good ol' fashioned rock n' roll. What do you think of this, Amanda? 

Amanda: I agree. As much as I enjoy some good electronic-based rock, it's refreshing just to have some pure, old-fashioned rock in the nominations. Guitar-shredding, solid beats, and powerful vocals. John Cooper's (Fight the Fury) "My Demons" actually reminds me of some of the original Skillet music from the 90's, albeit much more modern and polished. It's amazing to see some classic rock bands both reinventing themselves, and staying true to the core of rock that got them started in their careers.

Paul: Skillet has done very well to 'reinvent' themselves over the years. I think John Cooper did the Fight for Fury project, based on popular demand. Two noms in one category prove that Skillet has the ability to juggle different genres at once. Albeit, Unleashed didn't showcase Skillet's best efforts. Fight for Fury and Ledger's debut EP more than makes up for it. It'll be interesting to see how these two projects impact Skillet's next album. Who knows? Maybe we'll be right here next year, reviewing a cutting edge Skillet song. I wonder if there will ever be a time where we're tired of listening to Skillet music?

Amanda: I doubt it! Skillet has managed to stay relevant to their audience for several decades. I can't see them going out of style anytime soon.