HELLOWEEN – Helloween

A Dream Come True

If you looked up the definition of Power Metal, you’d most likely find Helloween at the top of the list of bands that defined the musical style. They set the genre’s benchmark back in 1987 with the release of Keeper of The Seven Keys, Pt. 1, and have been inspiring generations of musicians and fans ever since for the last 35 years. When Pumpkins United brought founding guitarist/vocalist Kai Hansen and former singer Michael Kiske back into the fold for a live tour, it was only a matter of time before this great band decided to stay united and give us their 16th studio masterpiece simply titled Helloween. With Andi Deris, Michael Kiske and Kai Hansen sharing vocal duties, it’s a dream come true for fans new and old.

Helloween Delivers

It’s been a long wait for new music since 2015’s My God Given Right, but one listen to the new album and fans will it agree it was more than worth the wait. The amazing thing about the new record is the way vocals are shared throughout the album, with no regard for egos as each singer does what they do best, singing the parts that are best suited for their unique voices. From the opening notes of “Out For Glory” we feel like we were transported back in time as Michael Kiske sounds perfectly back home, as if he never left.

“Fear of The Fallen” is definitely Andi’s diamond, as he goes from soft ballad intro to rock and roll screams with the perfect amount of grit. The beautiful thing is the way he has Micheal Kiske taking the clean lead on the chorus, orchestrating the parts between singers perfectly. One of the catchiest tunes is “Best of Times”, which has that “I Want Out Feel” feel and tempo. Last to be mentioned, but far from least is the epic “Skyfall” written by Kai Hansen, and coming in at just over 12 minutes. It has that feel of the classic song “Halloween” with all of the time changes, variety of mood and dynamics, and the inter-weaving of all 3 singers.

Final Notes

In this reviewers opinion, very few albums can be a 10 out of 10. It takes fantastic performances, combined with awesome songwriting and the perfect artwork all to come into play, making a complete package which has something new to say. That said, Helloween is one of those perfect albums that not only redefines the band, but redefines the brand. Our Power Metal heroes have made a fantastic album that feels like a family affair, made with passion and no regard for egos. This album is a must own for all metal fans, so don’t hesitate to add Helloween to your collection.

Lineup

Andi Deris – Vocals
Michael Kiske – Vocals
Kai Hansen – Guitar, Vocals
Michael Weikath – Guitar
Sascha Gerstner – Guitar
Markus Grosskopf – Bass
Daniel Loeble – Drums

Helloween – Tracklist

1. Out For The Glory
2. Fear Of The Fallen
3. Best Time
4. Mass Pollution
5. Angels
6. Rise Without Chains
7. Indestructible
8. Robot King
9. Cyanide
10. Down In The Dumps
11. Orbit
12. Skyfall

Bonustracks Digibook & Vinyl:

1. Golden Times
2. Save My Hide