Stryper - No more Hell to Pay

(CD Album Review)

*****

The new studio offering by Stryper is amazing!

'No more Hell to Pay' is the latest offering from Stryper and is their eighth original studio album, and may I say it was well worth the wait!. This album for me is by far the best from the band since their world breaking 'To Hell with the Devil' which saw the guys launched into main stream Classic Rock back in 1986. Before this time they’d infamously gained the tag of a “Christian band”, and had largely been ignored by rock fans who only recognised them for their striking striped, skin tight outfits rather than their music. From the release of 'To Hell with the Devil', people took them more at face value and realised what awesome musicians they really were. They continued to make their mark on the industry during the late 80’s before the sound of Classic Rock music fell off the radar, being replaced by Grunge and later by Pop and boy bands! Now with this particular brand of Rock making a comeback in earnest, this is the best time for a re-launch of Stryper.

This CD opens with a blinder of a track 'Revelation' which showcases all the trademarks of classic Stryper with its killer guitar harmonies, pounding drum beats and Michael Sweet’s amazing vocals overlaying it all. One of the real standout tracks for me is title song 'No more Hell to Pay', as it offers everything for the listener including tight guitar chops and an awesome wailing voice from Michael. It’s hard to believe this band has been around for thirty years, as Sweet’s vocals prove he really is still at the top of his game.

'Saved by Love' turns it up a notch with Robert Sweets superb kick ass drumming coming in to its own, and being complimented once again by Michael’s ever powerful vocal ability. The band had stated that this album would be made up of more heavy stuff, and that’s not far from the truth, but there has to be the token ballad right? That comes in the shape of 'The One' and is an outstanding track which will no doubt fall into favour with the listener. Beautifully produced and instantly recognisable, I found myself humming along to this from the off, and is by far one of my faves from the album. “Legacy” brings you back to the world of Heavy Rock and this is a number which could easily have fitted into the bands mid 80’s heyday.

'Marching into Battle' is one I had already seen being played live by the band on YouTube. The studio produced version is just as good with its punchy melody and gritty vocals. One of the speedier numbers is 'Te Amo', which to me was about the only slightly disappointing one on the album, maybe I just didn’t get it? 'Sticks and Stones' is another very melodic offering which contains an extremely catchy chorus and a stand out solo. 'Sympathy' keeps up the pace with its classic heavy and solid sound, and the last song on the album 'Renewed' finishes off the proceedings as it started with quality fresh Metal sounds. All in all this album screams quality from start to finish. Personally I really hope they hit the road running with a UK tour, it would be fantastic to hear these tracks played live.

Review by Helen Westby