Here we are with the Giants & Monsters review, the most anticipated album of the year for me.
Helloween admit that their reunion self-titled album was a bit too dark and lengthy, so they have finally delivered something more enjoyable and direct, at least for me, which aligns better with the happy Helloween style. Well, don't expect something like the 2 Keepers, but something coming from different band eras, which is even better, in my opinion. And yes, I prefer this one to the predecessor if you want to know it straight away, and if you still have doubts.
We have an epic opener, Giants on the run, for me is hand down the best song on the album, with a fantastic chorus and with lots of variations (there is even an almost growl part and a melodic part by Kay Hansen). I love the riffs and all the guitar parts by Michael Weikath and Sascha Gerstner. Ace song!
We Can Be Gods is a song that can sum up the album. It's very Keeper in some parts (Michael Kiske!), with Kay Hansen very present, and with an instrumental break that is pure early Deris era (it could be a song from my favourite The time of the oath). Into the Sun is a very good ballad (maybe a little too dramatic) with the two vocalist blending their voices perfectly. The arrangement of the chorus reminds me If I could fly (listen to the piano), and I love the solo too.
One of the weakest tracks for me was the first single This is Tokio, maybe a little too banal for the band, but I have to say it works better in the context of the album. The second single Universe (Gravity for Hearts), despite being a little too long, was definitely better.
Simple but catchy and interesting (well, let's say something different), is Hand of God, while Under the Moonlight is a happy and short song. I love how so many songs are just the perfect length, without unnecessary extended solo sections when they aren't necessary. A long one is the closing track, Majestic, opening with Kay Hansen's voice, followed by Michael Kiske and backing vocals by Andi Deris during the chorus (which is very Helloween, the song from the first Keeper, I mean). Lots of good solos and a good relaxing break in the middle.
Giants & Monsters is a very enjoyable album, surpassing its predecessor (yes, I’ve said it already). It’s unpretentious, easy to listen to, and captures the essence of the band’s different eras. Fans will instantly recognize it. A solid album with lots of ideas. Welcome back, Helloween.
Rating: 70/100
Top Tracks: Giants on the run, We can be Gods, Into the Sun.
Top Tracks: Giants on the run, We can be Gods, Into the Sun.