Sweet & Lynch ‘Only to Rise’

  When the president of your record company comes to you with a request, you stand up and listen. Such was the case when Serafino Perugino of Frontiers Music asked Stryper frontman Michael Sweet to sing on the new album from iconic metal guitarist George Lynch. Michael took it a step further and wanted to produce the record as well as co-write songs with George. Add in the rhythm section of bassist James Lomenzo and drummer Brian Tichy and you have the makings of a new supergroup.

  “Only To Rise” is a showcase of expertly written songs in true ’80s melodic metal fashion. It’s a little bit Stryper, a little bit Dokken and a whole lot of awesome. There are powerful midtempo rockers in “The Wish” and “Love Stays” that show just how powerful Sweet’s vocals can be with catchy hooks and soaring, out of this world choruses. Then you have the heavier tracks like “Dying Rose” and “Divine” where Lynch’s bluesy riffs and smooth as silk arpeggios take center stage. The driving beats of Lomenzo and Tichy make “Only To Rise” a true band effort. Don’t miss the tribute to the tragedy of 9/11 on “September” and hold on to your hats during “Recover” as Lynch just lets it rip.

  With the perfectly placed solos of Lynch and the gorgeous vocals of Sweet, “Only To Rise” was destined to be a hit. Would it be corny to call this record sweet or heavenly? Of course, but it is would also be 100% true. Sweet & Lynch have done more than make a hit record. They have blended their talents into a cohesive unit with a unique sound all their own.