Page 8 - ION Indie Magazine_JanFeb 2019

The band’s recent albums have seen Stryper at their music heaviest, and tonight’s show set
launched straight into a frenzy starting with the crushing “Yahweh” and followed by “The
Valley” from latest album “God Damn Evil.” With the band’s set mixing classic Stryper with new
Stryper, “Calling On You” and “Free” early in the set, was eaten up by the majority, who, judging
by the ages in the theater, were mostly 40 and over. Although I did see many young new fans
with their parents.

Front and center, as always, was Michael Sweet, lead vocalist extraordinaire and co-lead
guitarist. To his left, was co-lead guitarist and backing vocalist Oz Fox. To his right, the band’s
new bassist and backing vocalist, Perry Richardson. And behind them all is the man they refer
to as their visual timekeeper, Robert Sweet -- one of heavy metal’s all-time greatest drummers,
who also contributed backing vocals. Together, they transform into Stryper, the positive and
guiding light of heavy metal bands, fighting for the side of what’s good.

The band sounded fantastic tonight! Robert, Perry, and Oz were perfect with backing vocals
and harmonies. And as for Michael, his voice was nothing short of incredible. His vocal range
and power were still in top condition. The band still has it!

One of the things that really struck me was how the band had great control of their audience.
The crowd sang along to every song on their setlist, and they expressed the same level of
enthusiasm for Stryper’s new as well as the classic big hits. It was both awe-inspiring and
moving, hearing a sea of voices singing along with Stryper.

I was fortunate to connect with the Stryper camp and get some of my life-long questions
answered -- not only as a photojournalist but as a fan. The following was my conversation with
Michael Sweet. Enjoy!