Reviewed by Haydon Spenceley

Any student of Christian music (or, indeed, active listener from the '80s) must be aware of the contribution Stryper made to Christian music, and also the huge strides they made in bringing their songs and their message to the mainstream fraternity. Here the reformed band play a 2004 live reunion show. Various things soon become apparent. Firstly, singer Michael Sweet still has powerful chops. Great vocals punctuate the album. Secondly, the band was built on great songs. Any one of the 14 on offer here would give contemporaries of the band such as Bon Jovi or Poison a serious run for their money, and surpass them on many occasions. Thirdly, the passing of time has not diminished the band's power. The power in Robert Sweet's drumming is particularly noticeable. All of the hits are here, from "Soldiers Under Command" through to "Honestly" and many more. Definitely a record for those with a nostalgic pang for the return of the musical passion and fervent ministry of the scene in the '80s.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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