GRAMMY-nominated band Skillet has been awarded its first Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for Awake (Atlantic/Ardent/INO Records/Provident Distribution).

The recognition represents 1 million units sold of the band's 2009's album. Besides Mumford & Sons and The Black Keys, Skillet was the only active rock band to achieve Platinum certification in 2012.

"We are so proud of Skillet for this crowning achievement," said Craig Kallman, chairman and CEO of Atlantic Records and Julie Greenwald, chairman and COO of the music label. "The band is hard at work finishing up their incredible new album, which we can't wait for the world to hear this spring."

Skillet's next not-yet-titled album is being produced by Howard Benson (My Chemical Romance, Motorhead, and The All-American Rejects), who helmed Awake—the band's follow-up to Comatose (Atlantic/Ardent/INO Records/Provident), the group's 2006's RIAA Gold-certified album, indicating more than 500,000 units sold.

The band features singer/bassist John Cooper, guitarist/keyboardist Korey Cooper, drummer Jen Ledger and guitarist Seth Morrison.

"Musically, this [new] record feels like a roller coaster ride," Cooper said. "Several tracks are aggressive with dirtier and edgier guitars. Korey's keyboards are extremely unique, and Jen's great vocals are showcased throughout the album. There are some powerful anthems and what our fans tend to love, the 'signature Skillet' songs: symphonic, classical rock duets."

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