With the release of “Giants & Monsters” on Sept. 1, Helloween solidifies its legacy as one of power metal's most enduring and relevant forces. As the band celebrates its 40th anniversary, this album, the second with the "Pumpkins United" lineup, serves as a powerful testament to their continued credibility. 

Unlike many legacy acts who rest on past glories, this album demonstrates a vibrant, creative fire. The album shows a seamless integration of three distinct eras of the band, through the combined efforts of Kai Hansen, Michael Kiske and Andi Deris. The album speaks to a level of professional and personal chemistry that is rare in a band of this size and history. The album's top-notch production by Charlie Bauerfeind and Dennis Ward further cements its quality and seriousness. This is not a novelty reunion; it is the natural evolution of a band that is, by all accounts, in top form.

The musical logic of “Giants & Monsters” is a masterclass in varied and cohesive songwriting. The album successfully navigates a diverse range of styles while maintaining a consistent Helloween identity. The three-vocalist setup is once again the album's logical centerpiece, which is utilized as a dynamic storytelling tool. 

Tracks including the album opener “Giants On The Run” and the anthemic “We Can Be Gods” showcase the vocalists trading verses and harmonizing with precision. The instrumentation is equally deliberate, with a powerful rhythm section from bassist Markus Grosskopf and drummer Dani Löble, which drives the album's energy. Löble used three different drum kits to achieve the perfect sound for each song, a testament to the band's meticulous approach. 

“The ego’s gone, the dragon’s killed, there’s enough space left for making what we love doing – writing songs, playing songs,” said Löble in an interview with Liz Medhurst from Metal Talk. 

Guitarist Kai Hansen commented on the collaborative process in a recent interview, "It is rather beneficial to have so many songwriters, either way it will turn out great." 

This collaborative spirit is what gives the album its depth and range, from fast-paced rockers to more melodic, progressive pieces.

For fans, “Giants & Monsters” is an emotional journey. It is an album that elicits a feeling of pure, unbridled joy and triumph. It is an album that will stick with me. The return of this iconic lineup and their ability to create new, thrilling music taps into a deep well of nostalgia and shared experience. 

Hearing Kiske's soaring vocals alongside the powerful delivery of Deris creates a rush of emotions that connects with the long-time listener's personal history with the band. Tracks like "Into The Sun" stir a sense of grandeur and emotional release, making you feel like you are a part of something truly special. The album feels like a celebration of the band's past, present and future, forging an even deeper bond between the musicians and their devoted fanbase. 

“Giants & Monsters” is a stellar follow-up to their self-titled predecessor and a worthy addition to Helloween’s illustrious discography. It stands as a testament to the band's creative vitality and the enduring power of their music, proving that this reunion is far more than just a trip down memory lane.

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