Review: Stryper – Throne of Thorns
Many fans complain when their favorite bands have complained when favorite bands have experimented and changed sound and styles over the years. Fortunately, Stryper stays in their lane, building and expanding on their sound, but still maintain just that…their sound. In my option, Stryper “Mark 2,”—starting with 2013’s No More Hell to Pay—started down a path of forming a modern, mature, powerful sound, while keeping their classic style of traditional metal feel intact. With each record since, we find consistency, and with Throne of Thorns (Frontiers Records), that legacy continues.
“Soon our new Stryper record will be out, and can you believe it? It’s album number 18! I really believe you’re all going to love it. Michael worked incredibly hard writing these songs and bringing everything together. Oz, Perry, and I also worked hard to make this, what I feel is our best record yet. I’m confident that once you hear it, you’ll agree. Thank you all for your incredible loyalty and for continuing to support what we do.” —Robert Sweet
Eleven tracks of powerful, melodic, Stryper-ized greatness served up in a way, that as the press kit puts it, “…not only honors their legacy but expands upon it, offering an album that will resonate with longtime fans and newcomers alike.” Recognizable guitar tones, crunch, and searing dual guitar attack solos, along with layers and layers of powerful and anthemic vocals, filled in by thunderous, heavy bottom-end drums and bass to round out the Stryper sound that they serve up hot yet again.
“The best music doesn’t come from comfort. It comes from living, struggling, growing, and refusing to quit. I hope these songs find you exactly when you need them.” —Perry Richardson
From the opening drum fill of the title track, through to the high energy speed of the closer Shadowbreaker, they weave another tapestry of melodic, grinding, emotional, and beautiful sounds that is recognizably Stryper, proving they are a band that continues to maintain high level consistency and excellency in their music Fans will surely rejoice in another in another slab of molten goodness from this ever-satisfying band. As Michael said, “Heavy yet melodic, classic yet modern, and 100% Stryper!”
“I’m really happy with the final outcome of this record and of the heart that went into it. Michael continues to pour everything he has into the music and the message; Robertbrings the power and energy that has always been the pulse of STRYPER; Perry’s musicianship, vocal talents, and dedication are second to none, and I’m grateful to be on this journey with all of them.” —Oz Fox
As aptly stated in their press kit:
‘Throne of Thorns’ showcases the band at the height of their creative powers, delivering a masterclass in songwriting and musicianship. The album is packed with grand, meticulously crafted arrangements, where thunderous rhythms, soaring guitar harmonies, and anthemic choruses come together in a style that is unmistakably STRYPER. Each track is infused with both intensity and melody, capturing the essence of classic metal while pushing their sound forward with renewed energy and purpose.
‘Throne of Thorns’ Track List:
1. Throne of Thorns
2. Here In Your Heart
3. Falling
4. I’m Alright (I’m Okay)
5. Waiting For You
6. Carry The Flame
7. Hollywood
8. Beautifully Broken
9. Ashes To Roses
10. Alone Again
11. Shadowbreaker
Pre-Order ‘Throne of Thorns’ HERE
Be sure to check out Doug’s interview with Michael Sweet about this new album HERE.
STRYPER are:
Michael Sweet – Lead Vocals/Lead & Rhythm Guitar
Robert Sweet – Drums & Percussion
Oz Fox – Vocals/Lead and Rhythm Guitar
Perry Richardson – Vocals/Bass
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