Today, legendary Christian metal pioneers Stryper return with a commanding new chapter in their storied career, their 18th studio album: “Throne of Thorns”, set for release on September 25th, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.
Decades into their journey, Stryper continue 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.
About “Throne of Thorns”, Drummer Robert Sweet says:
“Soon our new Stryper record will be out, and can you believe it? It’s album number 18! I really believe you’re all going to love it. Michael worked incredibly hard writing these songs and bringing everything together. Oz, Perry, and I also worked hard to make this, what I feel is our best record yet. I’m confident that once you hear it, you’ll agree. Thank you all for your incredible loyalty and for continuing to support what we do”.
To celebrate the announcement, the band shares the title track from the upcoming album, alongside an official music video, available below.
On the title track, Michael Sweet comments:
“‘Throne of Thorns’ is a powerful message. Christ is on the throne, and we are redeemed because of the crown of thorns that He endured. This song is a perfect representation of our 43 years and who we were, and who we are. Heavy yet melodic, classic yet modern, and 100% Stryper”!
Watch the official video for “Throne of Thorns” below.
“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”.
Pre-order & pre-save “Throne of Thorns” here.
Tracklist:
1. Throne of Thorns
2. Here in Your Heart
3. Falling
4. I’m Alright (I’m Okay)
5. Waiting for You
6. Carry The Flame
7. Hollywood
8. Beautifully Broken
9. Ashes to Roses
10. Alone Again
11. Shadowbreaker
Four decades and counting, Stryper shows no signs of slowing down. The band will be back on the road this summer with a full US tour beginning July 17 in Arlington, TX. For a full list of dates, see below.
US Tour Dates 2026:
July 17th – Arlington, TX @ Arlington Music Hall
July 18th – Houston, TX @ House of Blues
July 19th – San Antonio, TX @ Aztec Theatre
Sept 19th – Wissen, GER @ Loud and Proud Festival 2026
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
Line-up:
Michael Sweet – Lead Vocals/Lead & Rhythm Guitar
Robert Sweet – Drums & Percussion
Oz Fox – Vocals/Lead and Rhythm Guitar
Perry Richardson – Vocals/Bass
Web:
linktr.ee/Stryper
