It’s the group’s tenth studio album
Stryper continues to dominate the hard rock/heavy metal scene with the their critically-acclaimed tenth studio album, God Damn Evil (Frontiers Music srl). Released on April 20th, the album debuts at No. 1 on Billboard’s Christian Album Sales, No. 2 on Billboard’s Top Christian Albums, No. 3 on Billboard’s Top Current Hard Music Albums, No. 5 on Billboard’s Top Independent Current Albums, No. 7 on Billboard’s Top Current Rock Albums, No. 12 on Billboard’s Top Current Physical Albums, No. 14 on Billboard’s Top Current Albums, No. 21 on Billboard’s Top Current Digital Albums and No. 77 on Billboard Top 200. In addition, God Damn Evil soared to No. 1 on the iTunes and Amazon Hard Rock charts immediately upon release.
“In today’s music world it’s miraculous for a band like Stryper to even chart at all,” says frontman Michael Sweet. “We’re absolutely thrilled that we’re still making our best music to date and climbing the charts 34 years later. We love what we do and we’re so blessed to do it. We’re grateful for so much support!”
More than three decades after exploding onto the rock scene, Stryper has delivered one of their most critically-acclaimed releases to date. “Stryper shines on God Damn Evil,” said the Associated Press, and National Rock Review declared the album “…an instant classic in every way from start to finish.” Overdrive Magazine called God Damn Evil “a masterpiece” while legendary rock station KNAC said it was “one of the best Stryper albums ever and a must-have for every metalhead.”
The album carries the No. 1 banner without the help of some retailers, such as Walmart, who have refused to carry the project due to its title.
“We’re disappointed,” says frontman Michael Sweet. “Stryper has always been about making people think outside the box. Our new album title God Damn Evil is a statement that’s needed in our society. We’ve seen evil rise to new levels and this title is simply a prayer request asking God to damn or condemn all the evil around us. Many chains have joined us in making such a statement. Walmart unfortunately has not. The odd thing is of all the chains out there we assumed Walmart would be one to understand exactly what our point and purpose is. Unfortunately not. Although we respect their decision and what’s done is done, it’s frustrating to see something that’s meant for good get misinterpreted and misunderstood.”
Prior to the album’s release, Stryper released a mini-documentary titled Renewed, wherein band members opened up about their past and future. After 35 years, the band is re-energized with new music, a new world tour, and the addition of Perry Richardson on bass. Richardson, a founding member of the multi-platinum band Firehouse, joins original Stryper members Michael Sweet (vocals and guitar), Robert Sweet (drums) and Oz Fox (guitar).
