Christian rockers and metalheads, I have exciting news: Becoming the Archetype has reunited, Demon Hunter is now independent, and Facedown Records has signed Cultist, a new, hardcore band. Oh, almost forgot. Demon Hunter is also starting their own record label.
Rock band Confessions of a Traitor's new single continues to impress listeners. Their latest record, Punishing Myself Before God Does, is shaping up to be one of my top 10 albums of the year. Though, Demon Hunter's new album, Exile, will be hard to beat.
I hope that the bands you've found and listened to through the Christian Rock Recap encourage you. I also hope that you'll support these bands by attending their live shows, streaming their music, as well as attending festivals.
Becoming the Archetype "The Lost Colony"
A very influential metal band in the 2000s was Becoming the Archetype. Their unique brand of melodic death metal instantly earned fans' attention in 2005 with Terminate Damnation, released through Solid State Records. Until 2012, the lead singer, Jason Wisdom, continued to be a powerhouse in the world of metal, but then he left to pursue solo endeavors. Vocalist Chris McCane replaced Jason for his one and only release, 2012's I Am.
The present day brings exciting news, as Jason Wisdom returns to vocals and the band reunites with original members Brent Duckett and Seth Hecox to release their sixth studio album, Children of the Great Extinction. This will be a concept album and "The Colony" is the first single, followed by "The Remnant."
Stryper "Rise to the Call"
One of the most consistent bands in the Christian rock world is Stryper. Even if you've never listened to their music, new or old, chances are that you've at least heard of them. From their hair metal days in the '80s to their current modern rock sound, Stryper remains an influential act in the music scene. Now, they're preparing to release their 14th studio album. They recently released the record's first single, "Rise to the Call."
About the new song, lead singer Michael Sweet explains, "In a world that hates Jesus, we sing His praises. Yet people say we do it for the money? We do it because salvation is much more important than fame and fortune. To put God first and dedicate your life to Him. Some people agree, some disagree. Regardless, we always 'Rise To The Call'."
Your Hands Write History The Solar Paradigm Triunity
One of my current favorite independant Christian bands is Your Hands Write History. They are a progressive metalcore band based out of Medford, Oregon. As the album's name, The Solar Paradigm Triunity, suggests, the record is a conceptual album that uses allegories of the sun, moon, and earth (sol, luna, terra appropriately) to tell the Gospel. The album reflects on our finiteness in a world of endlessness, yet God's glory is on display, regardless. Their musical expertise and careful songwriting is exemplary. I highly recommend taking some time to listen to the album.
Listen to these new releases on our New Christian Rock Playlist and New Christian Metal Playlist on Spotify and Apple Music. Now, you can find the latest rock and metal songs in their own respective playlists. Check out both playlists and consider giving them a follow and share. I hope you find some new artists and bands that you will love.
