The Good
“Kill It” features a dual guitar attack mixed with double-kick
drum fury. Andi Deris hits the high notes like he’s been kicked in
the groin, but still remains powerful and melodic. Clocking in at 7+ minutes, “The
Saints” pumps up the layered vocal melodies and features a more drum
focused rhythm. That’s not to say that the guitar axes don’t
have their moments though. “As Long As I Fall” brings the tempo
down a bit, but still brings the power with in-your-face vocals and meaty
chugga-chugga riffs.
The crux of the album, or main point theme of it, revolves
around the following three songs; “The Bells of Seven Hills” is
focused more on lyrics than pervious guitar/drum heavy tracks. The tempo
ranges from slow to mid. It gives off the feeling that you are falling into
the fiery pit that is hell. “Fallen to Pieces” features keyboard
effects and subtle guitars. The lyrics focus on the failures and demise of
the character involved. “I.M.E.” is about overcoming obstacles
and coming to the realization that no one can change you and there is nothing
wrong with that.
The Bad
Nothing
The Verdict
Helloween was losing me as a fan with their last couple of releases; Keeper
of the Seven Keys: The Legacy and Rabbit Don’t Come Easy. I can say
that Helloween has successfully won me back by doing what they do best;
rapid fire dual guitars, pounding kick drums, and melodic and powerful
vocals. Helloween feels re-energized on Gambling with the Devil and they
will raise more than a few devil horns in approval because of it.
Did You Know?
Biff Byford of Saxon can be heard during the albums introduction track.
HELLOWEEN
