Stryper vocalist / guitarist Michael Sweet took to social media earlier today with the following update on what will be his band's 14th studio album, expected sometime in 2022.

"I’m happy to say that all the songs (music) for the new Stryper album are complete. I started work on everything 2 weeks after my eye surgery (once I could lift my head) so it’s taken a little longer than usual (3 weeks) and also due to the holidays.

Of course we will fine tune them once we get together for rehearsal. Usually we rehearse at my house and then we head to Spirithouse to record. This time around we’ll be rehearsing at Spirithouse and we’ll be working though a few songs at a time and then tracking them once the band learns them. Very different yet most likely very effective."

"What do the songs sound like? Killer! Lots of riffs, grooves, up tempo and mid tempo and everything has a great feel to it. I’ve only sent music to the guys so they haven’t heard any melodies yet but the melodies are strong and powerful. It’s always a little strange talking about your own music but I can say that I’m really excited about the direction of this album! I know you will be too.

We’ve tuned down to D so the tuning makes it all sound a little fatter and heavier. There are a few songs with the low E string dropped down another step (C) so those songs have a bit more meat and potato’s as well.

There are a few ballads but they’re not your typical 'piano' or 'acoustic' ballads. They’re heavy as well and definitely guitar driven. Even though there have been obstacles along the way, this album really has shaped up to be an amazing piece of work. We’re a long way out but man, I can’t wait for all of you to hear this!! It may very well be our best yet.

More to come - stay tuned."

In live news, Stryper, have announced a string of US tour dates in May. A message from the band follows...

"We are so excited about touring again. We'll be touring heavily in 2022 and hope to see you all. What venue should we hit in your city? Here's our first round of  tour dates. More coming soon but if you live near one of these cities, grab tickets now. Love you all and can't wait to see you in person next year.

"Fun fact: The first leg of our 2022 tour is called "Calling On You 2022" to celebrate 35 years since you put Stryper on the Dial-MTV charts in 1987 with the songs 'Free', 'Honestly', and 'Calling On You'."

Stryper's 2022 Tour Dates:

May
5 - Derry, NH - Tupelo Music Hall
7 - Uncasville, CT - Mohegan Sun Casino
8 - Columbia, MD - M3 Rock Festival
10 - Vineland, NJ - Landis Theater
12 - Atlanta, GA – Masquerade
13 - Charlotte, NC - Amos Southend Music Hall
17 - Indianapolis, IN - The Vogue
19 - Saint Peters, MO - Diamond Music Hall
21 - Destin, FL - Lucille's Music Hall
27 - Fort Myers, FL - The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon
28 - Orlando, FL - House of Blues