Divine Riffs and Blessed Shredding: Stryper in Toronto

Review by: Tony Rachtman

Photos by: Nessa EJ

As the weather in Toronto begins to heat up, so do the show bookings, and venues like the Rockpile have been buzzing as of late. Wednesday night was no different, with Christian metal legends Stryper rolling through town on their 2019 History Tour hitting towns across North America. 

Make no mistake about Stryper, a band does not sell 10 million records simply on their lyrical content alone. Stryper is one of the most technically proficient and talented bands of their era. After over 35 years as a group, despite their ups and downs, Stryper, who have always honourably stuck to their guns, seem to want to be known as a metal band these days, over being a “Christian” band, and for good reason. They absolutely tear it up live! Whether is the spectacular drum kit of Robert Sweet, with metronome-like drumming in tow, the searing leads of both frontman Michael Sweet, and guitarist extraordinaire Oz Fox, Stryper makes a clear case that they are right up there, if, dare I say, better(!!!), than their counterparts of their day. The History Tour is an absolute treat for Stryper fans new and old, featuring classic hits and several covers, hearkening back to their 2011 album “The Covering” all of which made for loud, exciting evening for all. The show opened with the classic banger “Soldiers Under Command” which immediately had everyone in the crowd going. After a short warm up, the band transitioned into the covers part of their set. Whether it was Judas Priest’s “Heading Out To The Highway”, Black Sabbath’s “Heaven & Hell”, or the unexpected but very well received “All She Wrote” care of recently added bassist Perry Richardson, Stryper made every track they paid homage to their own, with every note and every beat completely on point. Classic tracks of the evening featured “Calling on You”, “Free”, and “Always There For You”, among others. The grand finale of the show, perfectly fitting, was the classic metal anthem “To Hell With The Devil”, which ensured everyone was going home happy that night, after a perfect 90 minute set that never seemed to sputter or let up on its energy. 

Local support for the show came care of local metal act Phear, featuring former Eidolon singer Patrick Muloch. Recently signed to RFL records, Phear played a huge role in loosening up the crowd with their heavy sound, reminiscent of heavier classic metal bands. Phear is one of the growing bands to watch in Toronto, featuring a veteran roster of seasoned musicians. I repeat: keep an eye on Phear. 

After all was said and done, Stryper is easily one of the best classic metal acts touring out there. Very few bands so many years on can match the youthful dexterity of their heyday, and Stryper is an exception to this rule. Healthy, happy, heavy, and optimistic, the Stryper train will continue to roll on for years to come. Whether a seasoned fan, or someone who is familiar and somewhat curious, go catch Stryper on the History Tour, or whenever else you may be so lucky to go and see them. God Bless Stryper!!!