Last Wednesday, March 20th, power metal fans received a dose of hope regarding one of the most legendary sagas in heavy music. In a new interview given to the Metal Remains website, Helloween vocalist Andi Deris spoke openly about the possibility of a new chapter for the Keeper Of The Seven Keys franchise .
The singer was asked if the story of the seven keys was “truly finished.” In fact, the saga includes the classics Part I (1987) and Part II (1988), as well as the sequel The Legacy (2005). “Oh, there are definitely some keys left, but you have to see that Keeper Of The Seven Keys depends a lot on the political situation,” Andi revealed [transcription via Blabbermouth].
According to the frontman, the current turbulent global scenario serves as the perfect fuel for a new thematic album. “We have a lot of nonsense going on. So, yes, now would be the right time. Unfortunately or fortunately, we already have a [new] album released,” he reflected.
Previously, the band used the same formula to compose the third chapter of the story. The album The Legacy was lyrically inspired by the Iraq War. The epic track "The King For A 1000 Years," for example, is about the main leader of that political conflict.
Deris also explained the genius behind the band's lyrics. “We have the luxury that everything that happens in the real world, we can package into a fantasy world without pointing fingers. You don't need to say it, but it's still there,” he detailed. Consequently, the most attentive listeners can decipher the social critiques in the subtext of Keeper.
The current moment and sonic excellence
When the interviewer suggested that now would be a great time for Part 4, the vocalist readily agreed: “It would be a good time for part four. That’s true.”.
Currently, Helloween continues to promote their latest and acclaimed studio album, Giants & Monsters, released in August of last year via Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM). The album expanded the group's sonic boundaries, featuring masterful production by Charlie Bauerfeind and Dennis Ward at the legendary Wisseloord Studios in the Netherlands.
Interestingly, the pursuit of excellence in the final recording was so intense that drummer Dani Löble used three different drum kits. The goal was to capture the perfect, specific vibe for each of the songs.
The German band has been experiencing a golden age since reuniting with its expanded lineup. Their self-titled album, Helloween (2021), reached the Top 10 in more than ten countries, and the majestic energy of their tour was immortalized in the live album Live At Budokan, released in late 2024. Fans can only hope that the keys will open the studio gates again very soon.
Check out the full interview:
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