Artist: HELLOWEEN
Album: KEEPER OF THE SEVEN KEYS PART I VINYL (LP)

Release date: 1987/ 2015
EAN/UPS: 5414939922817
Media type: LP

Influenced by Iron Maiden and Judas Priest, Helloween specialized in blistering yet melodic heavy metal with a strong gothic orientation. On Keeper of the Seven Keys, Pt. 1 (arguably Helloween's best album), lead vocalist Michael Kiske has no problem singing in a high, ear-splitting pitch -- often demonstrating just how great an impact Rob Halford has had on him. Although Helloween was never in a class with either Priest or Maiden, this very conceptual album is competent, enjoyable, and generally well done.

There are no hormone-driven odes to women in tight dresses (a recurring theme in metal and hard rock) on Keeper; from "Future World" to "Twilight of the Gods," Helloween sticks to the type of gothic, fantasy-oriented lyrics it was known for. Helloween's contributions to metal were never outstanding, but as Keeper showcases, the band did have its moment.


A1 Initiation 1:20
A2 I'm Alive 3:22
A3 A Little Time 4:00
A4 Twilight of the Gods 4:30
A5 A Tale That Wasn't Right 4:42


B1 Future World 4:02
B2 Halloween 13:18
B3 Follow the Sign 1:47