80s Rock Band to Release New Album 45 Years After Formation
Stryper, a Christian metal band that formed in Orange County, California in 1980, is set to release its 18th studio album titled “Throne of Thorns” on September 25th. Lead single from the album has also been released, providing fans with a sneak peek into what the band has in store for them.
Michael Sweet, the band’s frontman, expressed his passion for making music in an interview with Hotel Hobbies, comparing it to a routine part of his life like having coffee or brushing teeth. This fervor for creating music has fueled Stryper’s longevity in the music industry for over four decades.
In the 1980s, Stryper made a name for themselves by infusing hard rock and heavy metal with Christian themes, standing out from other bands of the era by showcasing Bible-inspired lyrics and energetic performances. Hits like “Calling on You,” “Honestly,” and “Free” propelled the band onto MTV and mainstream rock radio, with their album “To Hell with the Devil” becoming the first Christian metal album to receive platinum certification in the United States.
Refusing to conform to the norm, Stryper embraced their unique style, choosing to sing about faith and positive values rather than the typical rock themes of sex, drugs, and excess. Sweet expressed that while the band may not have achieved as much commercial success as their counterparts, they stayed true to their beliefs and music, which he wouldn’t change for anything.
Despite their long career, Stryper has continued to release new music and tour regularly, maintaining their relevance in the metal music scene. Their upcoming album “Throne of Thorns” follows their 2024 release “When We Were Kings” and marks another milestone in their enduring recording career.
With a new single and album on the horizon, Stryper shows no signs of slowing down, proving that even after 45 years since their formation, they still have plenty of fresh music to offer to their dedicated fan base. The band’s ability to constantly reinvent themselves while staying true to their roots is a testament to their staying power in the rock and metal world.