Michael Sweet of Christian rockers STRYPER has confirmed the release of the band's eighteenth studio album, 'Throne Of Thorns,' which will be released on September 25 via Frontiers Music Srl.

The announcement marks a significant new development in the band's musical output.

The album follows a period of health challenges for Sweet, including a retinal detachment diagnosed in November 2021 and a papillary thyroid cancer diagnosis in late 2023.

Sweet underwent a partial thyroidectomy in December 2023 and continues to manage his condition with thyroid medication.

He has also undergone multiple eye surgeries since the initial diagnosis.

Sweet has expressed personal regret over receiving the COVID-19 vaccine during the pandemic, citing a possible connection between the shots and his health issues.

He shared this on social media, stating: "My biggest regret during Covid was getting the shot/shots (this is my opinion and my personal view.

I'm not by any means reprehending anyone who got the shot)." He added: "After my first shot, my retina detached.

A few years after that, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer." The band remains active with its core lineup: Michael Sweet (vocals), Robert Sweet (drums), Oz Fox (guitar), and Perry Richardson (bass).

The album's release is set for September 25, with no official tour dates announced at this time."