Interview and Live Photo by Robert Cavuoto
Need the perfect album to help you deck your halls? Stryper will unwrap their first-ever Christmas offering titled The Greatest Gift of All on November 21st via Frontiers Music Srl.
As expected, Stryper comes alive and cranks up the yuletide spirit, firmly putting Christ back in Christmas. While the holiday season isn’t typically associated with hard rock, Michael Sweet [Lead Vocals/Guitar], Robert Sweet [Drums & Percussion], Oz Fox [Vocals/ Guitar], Perry Richardson [Vocals/Bass] bring together timeless Christmas favorites like “Silent Night” and On This Holy Night” with original holiday songs including the title track and “Still the Light.”
Far from a novelty release, this record feels heartfelt and genuine as an extension of the band’s faith and energy rather than a simple detour. With a healthy balance of spirited reinterpretations and new songs, The Greatest Gift of All captures the joy and reverence of the season, wrapped in pure Stryper style.
Fans can pre-order here: https://ffm.bio/thegreatestgiftofallalbum
It’s always a pleasure to chat with Michael about Stryper’s latest releases. Michael candidly shared an update on his health, explaining that after previously battling thyroid cancer and living with Hashimoto’s disease, he recently underwent a biopsy for new calcification on his remaining thyroid side. Though sore and awaiting results, he remains hopeful and prayerful, and strongly advocates that others stay proactive about their health.
Transitioning to the new album, he explained that fans had asked for a Christmas record for 40 years, and he finally realized it would never happen unless they committed. The band got together in March 2025 and recorded five original songs and five traditional carols.
They intentionally chose Christ-centered traditional songs rather than commercial holiday staples, focusing on music that reflects what Christmas means to the band.
He discussed the challenges of singing cleaner, softer material like “Silent Night,” given his permanent hoarseness and grittier vocal style. He also touched on lingering stigmas around Christian metal, noting the irony of listeners rejecting faith-based lyrics while embracing darker religious themes in other metal genres.
We also discussed some of his all-time favorite Christmas albums and memories, including a story about accidentally terrifying his children while dressed as Santa.
Michael also gave a detailed update on the long-in-development Stryper documentary, which is focused on the stories of fans whose lives the band has impacted. With many interviews still underway, he expects a release late next year or the following one. Looking ahead, he revealed that his new solo album, The Master Plan, is coming in April, a melodic, throwback, non-metal record that he feels will surprise fans in a refreshing way.
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