Stryper in Houston!

Way back in 1985 while living in Dallas, Texas a friend invited me to go see a Christian rock band named “Stryper”. I had heard a few of their songs from an album called “Soldiers Under Command” and liked it, so I agreed to go along and check it out. They were playing at something called the “Bronco Bowl” which sounded like a big arena to me (thinking Rose Bowl or Cotton Bowl), but it turned out the ‘bowl’ actually meant ‘bowling alley’! LOL! This particular bowling alley had a small theater in which many bands played including U2, The Clash, Bruce Springsteen, and lots more.

Bronco Bowl concert hall seating 2500

When Stryper took the stage, I have to admit at first I was a bit stunned. Here were guys in revealing spandex and big teased hair screaming out some rock music… and even throwing bibles in to the audience! It was strange. But I liked it. I liked it a lot.

Stryper wasn’t quite famous yet. That would come only a year or so later with the release of “To Hell with the Devil.” That album put them on the rock-n-roll map and covers of rock-n-roll magazines. It also landed them several spots on MTV with videos such as “Free” and “Honestly”.

Anyway, years pass and Stryper eventually fades away along with much of the 80’s hair bands. But by 2010 they are back together and begin to experience a renaissance. By 2013 they are releasing their most critically acclaimed album to date: “No More Hell to Pay.”

So when they roll into Houston for a show, I’m there. They do a sell-out show at a place called “Concert Pub North” and rock way into the night… past midnight actually. The crowd was obviously familiar with their music and would sing along with nearly every song. These guys have become great musicians – I mean really great musicians – and put on a rockin’ good show. Yes, they still throw bibles into the audience. I loved it! I look forward to seeing them again, although they say they will not be touring for at least 2 years.