Stryper - No More Hell To Pay

 

Here is what I thought of Stryper's new album, “No More Hell To Pay.” Remember, all scores are out of a possible 10 points.

“Revelation” - I have missed Stryper so much. This track reminded me of why I love them – razor sharp guitars, kick ass drums, and Michael Sweet's – well – sweet vocals. An excellent track that brought me much joy. Score: 9

“No More Hell To Pay” - I liked the groove on this track. The guitars are blazing, the drums are rocking and Michael's vocals are stratospheric. Maybe not the most memorable track, but a highly enjoyable one. Score: 8

“Saved By Love” - Um, no. I did not care for Michael's vocals on this song. They were needlessly rough and I just wanted to get him an Altoid. The music was average and the whole vibe was a bit too unfocused. Score: 3

“Jesus Is Just Alright” - Stryper takes this classic song and turns it into a hot mess. For the life of me, I cannot ever see how I would listen to this again. The arrangement was a mess, the pace seemed frantic, and I didn't even care for Michael's vocals – save for one high note at the end. Bleech. Score: 0

“The One” - I'm not buying this one. The only ballad on the album and its a snoozer. The background vocals are laughable and I didn't feel one ounce of emotional realness the entire song. Score: 2

“Legacy” - A much better rocking track. Love the music, adore the vocals and I am addicted to the guitar work. Not the best track on the album, but a cut about the rest. Score: 8

“Marching Into Battle” - Filler track. And not a very good filler track at that. The chorus kind of scared me – you will know what I mean when you hear it. I just didn't care for this track. Score: 3

“Te Amo” - I have no idea what this track is about. The music is better than average, but the vocals annoyed me. Don't get me started on the lyrics. What a waste of my time. Score: 3

“Sticks & Stones” - Oh sweet Jesus. The lyrics on this track as just ridiculous. If this is the best you can come up with boys, we may have to part ways soon. Score: 0

“Water Into Wine” - Alright, this rocker is bringing me back into the fold again. Better lyrics, better arrangement, and kick ass vocals. This kind of song is what I expect from you. Score: 7

“Sympathy” - This track is a nice, melodic upbeat track. I almost considered it to be filler, but there is something about this one that got through to me. One of the better songs on the album. Score: 7

“Renewed” - Well at least they ended the album as strong at they started. A face shredded of a track, this one flat out rocks and Michael’s vocals reach all the way to the heavens. Score: 10

Average Track Score: 5.0 Would I recommend this to my friends? No. There are just not enough good tracks on this album. There are some good ones, but more misses than hits.

Escalader,

Jim

@draglover – Follow me on Twitter!