By: AvNatten

Posted: Dec 17, 2005

Legendary power metallers Helloween have been churning out music for around three decades now. As always when a band of such status releases an album that is said to be a return to their earlier material the expectations are high. With their latest album "Keeper Of The Seven Keys - The Legacy", Helloween are continuing the saga they started many years ago with the albums "Keeper Of The Seven Keys Pt. 1 and 2". Although the albums the band released after the aforementioned Pt. 1 and 2 did fairly well, none reached the glory of those two discs. Helloween have been yearning to reclaim those days and in the third instalment of their trilogy "The Legacy" they have managed to do so.

The band which consists of vocalist Andi Deris, guitarists Michael Weikath and Sascha Gerstner, bassist Markus Grosskopf, and new drummer Dani Loeble sounds top notch and are perfectly in synch with one another. This disc is packed with energy, power, and melodies are abound. The songs are composed very well and have the needed pace changes and diversity to make them enjoyable and never monotonous, even on the songs that go past 8 minutes. That's quite a feat in itself. Each band member is great at their task and delivers their assigned role with energy and enthusiasm. The vocals are solid, the bass and drums lay down a solid foundation, and the guitars provide many good riffs and interesting solos.

Helloween keep their power metal ominous and mystical on "The Legacy". The opening track 'The King For A 1000 Years' begins with a fantasy inspired narration to get you in the right mood. This track is epic to say the least and lasts almost 14 minutes. Tracks such as 'Mrs. God' have some tongue in cheek humour thrown into it, this track in particular is a standout with its catchy sing along chorus and staccato riffing that'll stay in your mind. The ballad-like 'Light The Universe' features a guest appearance from Candice Night of Blackmore's Night fame. Her voice blends well with Deris' and adds emotion to the track.

Any fan of melodious metal should not pass this up for they are sure to adore it. Especially if you are a big fan of "Keeper Of The Seven Keys Pt. 1 and 2" you should definitely check this out as you wont be disappointed. Some who are looking for something totally original probably won't give this album its needed attention, but if its classic power metal you crave Helloween can deliver!

Rating: 8/10

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