Today, legendary Christian metal pioneers STRYPER proudly release their 18th studio album, ‘Throne Of Thorns,’ out now via Frontiers Music Srl. Decades into their journey, STRYPER continues to reaffirm their status as one of the most influential and enduring bands in classic metal, seamlessly blending their signature message with a sound that remains as powerful and relevant as ever.
Celebrating the release, the band also unveil their new single, "Shadowbreaker," alongside an official visualizer, available below.
On the new track, Michael Sweet comments:
“'Shadowbreaker' is a full throttle banger and a great way to end the album. It represents our heavier side perfectly, and where we’re at as a band in 2026.”
Watch the Visualizer for "Shadowbreaker"
‘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.
At the forefront stands the unmistakable voice of Michael Sweet, whose passionate, powerful, and instantly recognizable delivery continues to define the band’s identity. His vocal performance on ‘Throne of Thorns’ is nothing short of extraordinary, effortlessly moving between soaring highs and emotive depth, adding a timeless quality to every song.
Perry Richardson says:
"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."
With ‘Throne Of Thorns,’ STRYPER not only honors their legacy but expands upon it, offering an album that will resonate with longtime fans and newcomers alike. It’s a bold, inspired statement from a band that refuses to stand still—proof that true metal greatness only grows stronger with time.
Guitarist Oz Fox concludes:
"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."
Four decades and counting, STRYPER shows no signs of slowing down. The band will be back on the road starting this fall with a full U.S. For a full list of dates, see below.
STRYPER Live:
Sept 29th - Derry, NH @ Tupelo Music Hall
Sept 30th - Wantagh, NY @ Mulcahy’s Pub and Concert Hall
Oct 1st - Newton, NJ @ The Newton Theatre
Oct 3rd - Harrisburg, PA @ XL Live
Oct 4th - Warrendale, PA @ Jergel’s Rhythm Grille
Oct 6th - Marion, IL @ Marion Cultural and Civic Center
October 8th - McHenry, IL @ The Vixen
Oct 9th - Wisconsin Dells, WI @ Crystal Grand Music Theatre
Oct 10th - Green Bay, WI @ EPIC Event Center
Oct 12th - St. Louis, MO @ The Hawthorn
Oct 13th - Cincinnati, OH @ Bogart’s
Oct 15th - Nashville, TN @ The Cannery Mainstage
Oct 16th - Newton, NC @ Newton Performing Arts Center
Oct 17th - Kingsport, TN @ MeadowView Conference Resort & Convention Center
Oct 19th - Jacksonville, FL @ FIVE
Oct 20th - Orlando, FL @ House of Blues
Oct 22nd - Atlanta, GA @ Center Stage
Oct 23rd - Liberty, SC @ Pickens County PAC
Oct 24th - Hopewell, VA @ Beacon Theatre
Oct 25th - Stroudsburg, PA @ Sherman Theater
Dec 5th - San Juan, PR @ Coca-Cola Music Hall
STRYPER are:
Michael Sweet - Lead Vocals/Lead & Rhythm Guitar
Robert Sweet - Drums & Percussion
Oz Fox - Vocals/Lead and Rhythm Guitar
Perry Richardson - Vocals/Bass