Let's set the stage. The mid-1980s was a wild time for heavy metal. Hairspray, spandex, and devil-horned imagery reigned supreme, and the music itself was a relentless assault of power chords, screaming vocals, and ear-splitting solos. Amidst this maelstrom of rebellion and hedonism, a band of four young men from Orange County, California, dared to challenge the status quo. They called themselves Stryper, and they were on a mission to bring the message of Christianity to the masses through the unlikely vehicle of heavy metal.
'Soldiers Under Command' was their second full-length album, and it was a game-changer. From the opening salvo of the title track, it was clear that Stryper meant business. The music was a full-frontal assault of thunderous drums, blistering guitars, and soaring vocals, all delivered with a passion and intensity that rivaled their secular peers. But what truly set Stryper apart was their unwavering commitment to their faith. The lyrics were unabashedly Christian, addressing themes of salvation, redemption, and spiritual warfare.
This bold fusion of heavy metal and Christian evangelism was bound to stir up controversy. Critics dismissed them as a gimmick, while some religious leaders accused them of blasphemy. But Stryper refused to be silenced. They toured relentlessly, playing to packed houses of devoted fans who were hungry for a message of hope and positivity amidst the darkness of the heavy metal scene.
The album's production was helmed by the legendary Michael Wagener, known for his work with Metallica, Motley Crue, and Ozzy Osbourne. Wagener's expertise brought a level of polish and professionalism to 'Soldiers Under Command' that elevated it above the typical Christian metal fare. The recording took place at Pasha Studios in Hollywood, a legendary facility that had hosted the likes of Led Zeppelin and Jimi Hendrix.
Musically, 'Soldiers Under Command' was a masterclass in heavy metal songwriting. The band's dual guitar attack, courtesy of Michael Sweet and Oz Fox, was a force to be reckoned with. Sweet's soaring vocals, reminiscent of Rob Halford and Bruce Dickinson, were both powerful and emotive. The rhythm section of bassist Tim Gaines and drummer Robert Sweet provided a rock-solid foundation for the band's sonic onslaught.
The album's tracklist was a carefully crafted mix of anthems, ballads, and all-out rockers. 'Soldiers Under Command,' 'To Hell with the Devil,' and 'The Rock That Makes Me Roll' were fist-pumping calls to arms, while 'Reach Out' and 'First Love' showcased the band's softer side. 'Shining Star' and 'Together Forever' were unabashed power ballads that demonstrated the band's versatility.
'Soldiers Under Command' was a landmark album that defied expectations and shattered boundaries. Stryper proved that heavy metal and Christianity could coexist, and in doing so, they paved the way for countless other Christian metal bands to follow in their footsteps. Their music was a testament to the power of faith and the transformative potential of heavy metal. It was a hair-raising experience that left an indelible mark on the music world, and its impact continues to be felt to this day.
