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 {|Mi... Read more

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. ~ Alex Henderson Less