Ten by Michael Sweet
Posted October 18, 2019
By RyanAdams_NRT, Staff Reviewer
What You Need To Know:
Michael Sweet is the lead singer and founder of the legendary band, Stryper. Michael has been producing solo albums outside of Stryper for around twenty years, improving more and more on each album. Ten is aptly named for being his tenth album, distributed through Rat Pak Records. This album has either a guest vocalist or guest instrumentalist on each song.
What it Sounds Like:
Ten throws flurries of guitar solos and rifts at you left and right, with a solo in every song, sometimes more than once. Ten showcases an impressive vocal range from Michael Sweet. His guest vocalists such as Mike Kerr from Firstbourne and Todd La Torre of Queensryche also give exceptional support. Michael's voice soars high and melodically, and digs deep down with gritty, raspier vocal ranges throughout the album. The sound overall is comparable to Stryper's newest couple albums, but definitely has Michael's own style in it. Ten is high energy rock and roll with one beautiful ballad, primarily.
Spiritual Highlights:
Michael Sweet is unashamed and bold in what he believes in, whether it is about his faith in Christ, politics, or music in general. Concerning his guests on the album, he says, "As you all know, I push the envelope. I work with (and hang out with) people and peers who believe the polar opposite of what I believe, and we walk away with a smile and a hug. Not a screaming match of "I'm right and you're wrong." We're trying to show people that you can work together despite differences and the outcome can be amazing!"
Ten reflects Michael's hope of unity and love often. It has plenty of spiritual highlights. "Better Part of Me" speaks of the battle between the desires of the flesh versus the desires of the Spirit. "Now or Never" says, "Save me tonight, here and forever." It speaks of an urgent need for Salvation. Title track "Ten" is all about the Ten Commandments, almost word-for-word. "Son of Man" is about what you expect–Jesus, the Son of Man. Todd La Torre guests on this song. The song declares truths and excerpts from Revelation and the chorus screams, "He's the Son of Man, coming back again!"
Best Song on the Record:
My personal favorite is "Shine." This is one of the heaviest "happy songs" you will hear. The vocals are captivating, the music is electrifying, and the lyrics are empowering without being cheesy. Overall, though, "Son of Man" truly encompasses everything Michael Sweet was aiming for with this album, both musically, lyrically, and artistically.
For Fans Of:
Theocracy, Stryper, Disciple
Final Word:
Ten is a strong declaration that Michael Sweet is still an expert in the Christian rock scene. His expertise shines in this album throughout the whole listening experience. In a cliche, I would say this album turns it up to eleven. Musical expertise, empowering lyrics, and impressive vocals contribute to Ten as one of the best projects Michael Sweet has ever created. Take a listen and you will hear Michael's passion throughout each well-crafted song. View All Music And Book Reviews By RyanAdams_NRT | View RyanAdams_NRT's Profile
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