Helloween, a prominent figure in European power metal for four decades, has established a solid reputation with iconic albums like Walls of Jericho and Keeper of the Seven Keys. Despite some ups and downs over the years, the band’s 20th album, Giants & Monsters, showcases their enduring presence in the metal scene.
The album kicks off with “Giants on the Run,” setting a somewhat lukewarm tone, but quickly picks up with “Savior of the World,” delivering the energetic power metal sound that fans crave. However, tracks like “A Little is a Little Too Much” fall short, resembling a subpar imitation of other bands.
“We Can Be Gods” and “Universe (Gravity for Hearts)” bring back the signature Helloween style with fast-paced rhythms and shredding guitar solos. On the other hand, tracks like “This is Tokyo” miss the mark, veering into uninspired territory that fails to capture the band’s essence.
The band explores a softer side with the ballad “Into the Sun,” showcasing a different facet of their musical range. Yet, tracks like “Hand of God” venture into experimental territory with mixed results, blending flamenco and electronic elements in a puzzling combination.
As the album progresses, “Under the Moonlight” stands out with its catchy guitar intro and solid mid-paced delivery. The final track, “Majestic,” unfolds gradually, culminating in an epic guitar solo that brings the album to a powerful close.
Despite moments of brilliance in tracks like “Savior of the World,” “We Can Be Gods,” and “Universe (Gravity for Hearts),” Giants & Monsters falls short in maintaining a consistent quality throughout. Tracks like “This is Tokyo” and the lackluster ballad “Into the Sun” detract from the overall listening experience, marking a weaker release in Helloween’s discography.
While the band’s legacy in power metal remains strong, this particular album may not resonate with fans as strongly as previous efforts. Giants & Monsters offers glimpses of Helloween’s enduring talent, but ultimately falls short of capturing the band’s full potential.
Released through Reigning Phoenix Music, Giants & Monsters presents a mixed bag of tracks that showcase Helloween’s musical evolution while also highlighting the challenges of maintaining a consistent sound over decades in the metal industry.
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