Metal Masters return to present their own 'Legacy'
Sonata Arctica, Hammerfall, Rhapsody. What do all these bands hold in common? They, like countless others, have been influenced since their conception by the undisputed kingpins of power metal; Helloween. Naming this album 'Keeper Of The Seven Keys - The Legacy', a reference to their 1987 classic is both a daring and ambitious move. After so many years in the game, Can Helloween still make the power metal anthems they are so well known for, whilst still providing something new? The answer is "Yes" and "No".
This music fills all the staples of what any fan of power metal or hard rock will be wanting; From the speedy catchy styles of 'Mrs God' to the epic, varied but always melodic ways of album opener 'The King For A 1000 Years' this album is undeniably a crowd pleaser and will translate a treat into the live setting. All the staples are here; Melodic vocals from singer Andi Deris, the ubiquitous double bass pedal drumming and the fast and intricate guitar work we have all come to expect and love. The musicianship provides the expected level of virtuosity and catchiness and in terms of performance; little can be faulted at all! Addtionally, tracks such as 'The King For A 1000 Years' and 'Occasion Avenue' both weigh in at over 10 minutes long providing songs with a more intricate and detailed touch than the simpler 4-minute anthems which was an appreciated touch.
However these does seem to be something missing from this album, some vital spark that I just couldn't find listen after listen. Perhaps it's the fact that the Helloween style of power metal has been so imitated it is no longer fresh and exciting. Perhaps it's something lacking in the song writing itself, but this album fails to live up to its legendary predecessors and rather than providing anything new for future generations of power metal bands to emulate simply sounds the same. However, all that being said, the lack of innovation or progression on this album doesn't stop it from holding some undeniably juicy, catchy, fist-raising metal anthems.
Whilst perhaps failing, and even dissapointing on a handful of levels, 'Keeper Of The Seven Keys - The Legacy' is still undoubtedly a strong album even whilst it does not quite live up to its namesakes. Helloween have proved that although they may no longer be the pioneers of speedy power metal, they can certainly still kick up a good, catchy racket. 'Keeper Of The Seven Keys - The Legacy' is an unmissable release for both fans and newcomers to the classic style of power metal.