I am hardly what you would class as a religious kind of person, but that has no influence whatsoever on my listening choices. If it did then my music collection would be missing so many truly wonderful albums. So I listen to a wide range of music like my last CD order (Yes I still purchase actual CD's) included this latest release by Christian rockers Stryper, and also the second and very good recording by the black metal act Mykur.
As Stryper are a group that I have been keenly following since the 80's I was most eager as I waited for this new album to arrive. Stryper have continued to deliver following their comeback album the aptly titled Reborn, as Stryper have gone from strength to strength which brings us to Fallen. Guitarist/lead vocalist Michael Sweet really is a talented singer with a great range, and whether it be on Fallen or his impressive last solo album I'm Not Your Suicide he remains one of the best melodic rock/metal vocalists around. So with the lead and also backup vocals for that matter covered, Stryper also tick the boxes with the drums and bass firing along very nicely indeed, and the guitar chops are stellar from the riffs to the solos.
They certainly didn't save the best song for last, actually the vibrant melodic metal opener "Yahew" is sure to go down as one of their classics being up there with the strongest songs that Stryper have ever recorded. This power packed track features Stryper best performance since reuniting, there's even a touch of Iron Maiden on one of the heaviest songs by the band to date. Next the quality continues with the mid paced title track "Fallen" and its powerful chorus, this one tells of Lucifer and his being cast out from heaven hence the title. Stryper know how to capture the most memorable choruses another example being "Heaven". This album just makes you feel so good I can see myself getting loads of mileage once again rocking out thanks to Stryper.
There's also a nice balance of variety on Fallen and Stryper even included a very cool cover version of Black Sabbath's "After Forever". Fallen really is one fine melodic metal/hard rock album and easily one of the best in 2015.
Track Listing
1. Yahweh
2. Fallen
3. Pride
4. Big Screen Lies
5. Heaven
6. Love You Like I Do
7. All Over Again
8. After Forever
9. Till I Get What I Need
0. Let There Be Light
11. The Calling
12. King Of Kings
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