742. Stryper / No More Hell to Pay. 2013. 3.5/5

No matter what way you swing when it comes to religion and the matters of God, you cannot help but be impressed by the music that is produced by Stryper, and more to the point, you cannot help but enjoy this album. Whatever their thoughts were when they came into writing and recording this album, they have finally managed to find a formula that is reminiscent of their glory days back in the mid-to-late1980's, utilising their greatest assets to produce an at times scintillating album.

This goes back to their metal roots. There is a definite push on this album to make heavier songs and heavier music, and you can't argue with the results. The drumming and drum sound here is terrific. Rob Sweet appears to be playing his kit harder, and getting the maximum thump out of his toms. The 'visual timekeeper' of old is more than holding up his end of the bargain on this album. Listen to songs such as "Sticks & Stones", and you wonder how he has any unbroken drumsticks left. The always remarkable lead guitar of Oz Fox continues to astound. He and Michael Sweet have a unique and brilliant guitar sound, one that any band would give their eye teeth for. Not to mention Michael's amazing vocal chords once again. He still retains once of the most remarkable voices in music, let alone the hard rock and metal scene. The notes he still hits are ridiculous, without ever sounding like they are forced. The end of "Saved by Love" is a perfect example of this. His vocal harmonies with Oz Fox match those they perform with their guitars. Unbelievable.

I don't listen to Stryper for the lyrics or their perceived message. I listen to Stryper for the music, for those amazing guitars, and to hear Michael Sweet sing. I know every word off the album To Hell With the Devil because I was 17 when it was released and that's what you did when you were 17. Now I could barely tell you a line I remember from this album, but that doesn't mean I like it any less.
I'm not trying to oversell this album, because no matter what your music taste is you will find flaws here along the way. I'd be more impressed if the songs were faster, because that's what I like. My favourites from the album would include "Legacy" and "Te Amo" for that reason. And sure, after a while some of the songs will begin to repeat on you. But it is the style they have headed in that I like. If you enjoyed Stryper back in their golden years you should also enjoy this. If you haven't been a fan, this is unlikely to convert you. Pun intended.

Rating:  I’ve seen enough to write tale after tale.  3.5/5