STRYPER @ Green Bay Distillery – Green Bay, WI
May 18, 2018
Photos by David Urmanski
BAND MEMBERS: STRYPER
Michael Sweet – Vocals & Guitar
Oz Fox – Guitar
Perry Richardson – Bass Guitar
Robert Sweet – Drums
Website: www.Stryper.com
BAND STORY: STRYPER
Established in southern California in 1983, multi-platinum crossover Christian metal band, Stryper, continues to share their positive message and energetic stage presence with a passionate following throughout the world. Since the band’s inception over 30 years ago, the founding members have stayed true to their deepest convictions, turning from “the ways of the world” and following their hearts instead.
“In the past 34 years, we’ve evolved into what we are now,” says vocalist and guitarist Michael Sweet. “This is what we always really wanted to be. I love the progression. The story of Stryper is that of an underdog. We seem to go against the grain with everything we do, and our fans tend to be the same – They’re good hardworking people who believe in love, respect, and not conforming to the ways of the world.”
The members of Stryper have proven themselves as metal stalwarts, leaving an indelible mark on the genre with each new release. With such hits as “Calling On You,” “Free,” “Honestly,” and “Always There For You,” Stryper’s album sales now exceed over 10 million worldwide. Add to that one of the most successful Christian rock albums ever, 1986’s multi-platinum To Hell With The Devil, and the unique distinction of being the first band in history to notch two songs in MTV’s Top 10 with “Free” and “Honestly.”
The band has managed to leave an enduring impression on pop culture, as well. Singer Michael Sweet spent months trending online when he was identified as the doppelganger of 2016 presidential candidate Ted Cruz, who went on to discuss the comparison on an episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live! Several movies have paid homage to Stryper’s cultural significance, too, including Drew Barrymore’s “Whip It” and “Pain & Gain,” starring Mark Wahlberg and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
Since returning from a 12-year hiatus in 2003, Stryper has managed to release new music annually. Their most recent full-length album, Fallen [Frontiers Music SRL], reached #44 on the Billboard Top 200 and #2 on the Top Hard Music Albums chart. The group is now recording their next original album, which is due in April of 2018 and promises to be their most groundbreaking yet.
This year will also bring Stryper back on the road, where they’ll have a chance to connect with fans, new and old. The line-up still features three of the original members, including singer songwriter Michael Sweet, his brother and drummer Robert Sweet, and guitarist Oz Fox. Recently, the group welcomed iconic bassist Perry Richardson (formerly of Firehouse), who will be joining them on tour.
“We’re excited about the next season of Stryper,” says Sweet. “ We have the best fans in the world and the band is at the top of its game musically and spiritually. We look forward to seeing everyone on the road.”
CONCERT REVIEW RATING SCALE:
1 = Poor
2 = Average
3 = Good
4 = Excellent
5 = Extraordinary
STRYPER CONCERT RATING: 5
THE VENUE: THE GREEN BAY DISTILLERY As Northeast Wisconsin’s premiere dining destination, located in the heart of Green Bay directly across from Ray Nitschke Field and within walking distance of Lambeau Field, the Green Bay Distillery is a family-friendly, sports-focused restaurant featuring 66 menu items – all with genuine Wisconsin flavor. Aside from great food and a friendly atmosphere, Green Bay Distillery host dozens of concerts annually and is the perfect venue for weddings, meetings, fundraisers and private events. Address: 835 Mike McCarthy Way - Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin 54304 Phone: (920) 393-4403 Website: www.GreenBayDistillery.comwww.Facebook.com/GreenBayDistillery Email: General Information: info@greenbaydistillery.com Banquets/Events: events@greenbaydistillery.com Upcoming Events & Tickets: www.GreenBayDistillery.com/Events Hours: Sunday: 11am-Last Call 10pm Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11am-Last Call 10pm Wednesday: 11am-Last Call 10pm Thursday: 11am-Last Call Midnight Friday: 11am-Last Call Midnight Saturday: 11am-Last Call Midnight
