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