HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II 12" Vinyl LP Album

Released in 1988, "Keeper of the Seven Keys Part II" is Helloween's third studio album, following the triumph of Part I. This German power metal masterpiece seamlessly continues its predecessor's legacy, captivating audiences across Europe, Asia, and the United States. The 12" Vinyl LP format enhances the sonic experience, making it a cherished gem for metal enthusiasts and a pivotal chapter in Helloween's illustrious career.

This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing.

 

Album Front Cover Photo of HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II

Essential Album Information For: HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II

Music Genre:

Speed / Power Metal

Label & Catalognr:

Noise International N 0117-1  

Media Format:

Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

1988 Made in Germany

HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II Production & Recording Information

Album Packaging

This 12" LP vinyl music record comes comes in a Fold Open Cover (FOC), which is also also known as a Gatefold cover. The inner pages of this album cover contains photos, artwork and lyrics

This album includes the original custom inner sleeve as well as the voucher for ordering Helloween merchandise ( no longer valid🙂 )

Sound & Recording Engineers:

Tommy Hansen - Sound Engineer

Tommy Hansen was a Danish music producer and sound engineer known for his work in the rock and metal genres. He was born on 17 April 1969, in Denmark and started his career in the music industry in the late 1980s.

Hansen gained recognition for his production and engineering skills, particularly in the realm of heavy metal and hard rock music. He worked with several prominent bands and artists, contributing to the development of their sound and helping them achieve commercial success.
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One of Hansen's most notable collaborations was with the German power metal band Helloween. He worked on several of their albums, including "Keeper of the Seven Keys Part I" (1987) and "Keeper of the Seven Keys Part II" (1988), which are considered landmark releases in the power metal genre. Hansen's work with Helloween helped define their sound and solidify their position as one of the leading bands in the genre.

In addition to Helloween, Tommy Hansen also worked with other notable metal bands such as Pretty Maids, TNT, and Pagan's Mind. He was recognized for his ability to capture the energy and power of live performances in the studio, contributing to the overall impact of the recordings.

Unfortunately, Tommy Hansen passed away on 4 March 2019, at the age of 49. His contributions to the music industry, particularly in the realm of rock and metal, left a lasting impact, and his work continues to be appreciated by fans and musicians alike.

during the 1980s he has been working at the Horus Sound Studio for Heavy Metal bands like: Heavens Gate, Helloween , Pretty Maids , Rage , S.A.D.O., Steeler , Tyran' Pace , Victory . "Tommy Hansen" and "Tommy Newton" have been working together (at Horus Sound Studio, Hannover, Germany) on the recording of Heavy Metal albums for the bands like Helloween and Victory.

Tommy Newton - Sound Engineer

Tommy Newton is a highly talented and versatile musician, renowned for his exceptional skills as a guitarist, producer, and sound engineer. With his remarkable contributions to the music industry, particularly in the realm of heavy metal, Newton has carved a distinguished reputation for himself. He gained significant recognition as a guitarist in the bands "Fargo" and "Victory", while also leaving an indelible mark as a producer and sound engineer, primarily through his collaboration with the iconic German heavy metal band, Helloween.

Born in an idyllic town, Newton's early exposure to music instilled a deep passion within him. As a teenager, he developed an intense fascination with the guitar and soon embarked on a journey to master this instrument. Newton's dedication and unwavering commitment to his craft led him to hone his skills and expand his musical horizons.

In the early stages of his career, Newton found himself as the lead guitarist for the band "Fargo". Their unique blend of melodic rock captivated audiences, and Newton's intricate guitar work played a vital role in shaping their sound. His impressive technical abilities and soulful solos became a defining characteristic of the band's music, garnering them widespread acclaim.

After leaving Fargo, Newton embarked on a new chapter in his musical career and joined forces with the band "Victory". As their lead guitarist, he continued to showcase his exceptional talent and further solidified his reputation as a skilled musician. With Victory, Newton experienced both critical and commercial success, contributing to the band's numerous albums and electrifying live performances.

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While his prowess as a guitarist garnered him immense recognition, Newton's talents extended beyond his instrument. His passion for the production and engineering aspects of music led him to explore new avenues. Newton's meticulous attention to detail and innate understanding of sound allowed him to establish himself as a sought-after producer and sound engineer.

One of Newton's most notable collaborations occurred when he began working with the influential German heavy metal band, Helloween. His production and engineering contributions to their albums, such as "Keeper of the Seven Keys" and "Master of the Rings", played a significant role in shaping the band's sound and catapulting them to international stardom. Newton's exceptional work with Helloween solidified his position as one of the industry's most respected producers and sound engineers.

Throughout his illustrious career, Tommy Newton has consistently demonstrated his exceptional musical talents, leaving an indelible mark on the heavy metal genre. His contributions as a guitarist, producer, and sound engineer have not only influenced countless musicians but have also enriched the listening experiences of fans worldwide. Newton's unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to seamlessly navigate various musical roles make him a true icon in the world of rock and metal music. As he continues to create and collaborate, Tommy Newton's impact on the industry remains an enduring testament to his extraordinary talent and passion for music.

Recording Location:

This album was recorded at: Horus Sound Studio, Hannover, May-June 1988

  Horus Sound Studio is located in Hannover, Germany and has been the recording and sound mix studio for sound engineers like: Tommy Newton, Jan Nemec, Tommy Hansen. During the 1980s this studio has been used by bands like: Celtic Frost, Helloween, Rage, Sodom, Victory and many others

Album Cover Design & Artwork:

Michael Weikath - Album Cover Design

Edda & Uwe Karczewski, Hamburg

Uwe Karczewski a German graphics artist known for the 1980's album covers for Heavy Metal bands like: Helloween , Iron Angel .

Photography:

Ingo Schwichtenberg - Photographer.


Musicians:
  • Markus Grosskopf - Bass

    Markus Grosskopf is a renowned German bass player, best known for his exceptional skills and contributions to the influential Speed/Power metal band, Helloween. Born on September 21, 1965, in Hamburg, Germany, Grosskopf developed a profound passion for music at an early age.

    In his formative years, Markus Grosskopf delved into the world of rock and metal, drawing inspiration from bands like Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, and Led Zeppelin. Fascinated by the power and intensity of heavy metal music, he honed his bass playing abilities, steadily building a reputation as a proficient musician in the local music scene.

    Grosskopf's breakthrough came in 1983 when he joined forces with guitarist Kai Hansen, vocalist Michael Kiske, drummer Ingo Schwichtenberg, and guitarist Michael Weikath to form Helloween. The band quickly gained prominence for their energetic performances, intricate songwriting, and blistering guitar solos.

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    Markus Grosskopf's thunderous bass lines played a crucial role in defining Helloween's signature sound. His playing combined technical precision, melodic sensibility, and a driving rhythm that anchored the band's music and propelled their songs to new heights. His ability to seamlessly blend with the dual guitars created a powerful sonic foundation for Helloween's speed and power metal anthems.

    Helloween released their debut album, "Walls of Jericho," in 1985, introducing a new era of heavy metal to the world. The album showcased Grosskopf's dexterity and contributed to the band's rising popularity. Helloween went on to release a string of highly acclaimed albums, including "Keeper of the Seven Keys Part I" (1987) and "Keeper of the Seven Keys Part II" (1988), which solidified their position as one of the leading forces in the European metal scene.

    As Helloween's success grew, Markus Grosskopf's songwriting skills also flourished. He contributed to the band's creative process, penning notable tracks such as "Dr. Stein," "I Want Out," and "Eagle Fly Free." These songs became staples in Helloween's live performances and captured the hearts of fans worldwide.

    Grosskopf's dedication and commitment to Helloween were unwavering throughout the band's journey. Despite lineup changes and internal challenges, he remained a constant force, providing stability and creative input. His stage presence and charisma also endeared him to audiences, as he demonstrated his passion for music through powerful live performances.

    Beyond Helloween, Markus Grosskopf has engaged in various side projects and collaborations, showcasing his versatility as a musician. He released solo material and participated in ventures like Shockmachine and Bassinvaders. However, his primary focus has always remained with Helloween, ensuring that the band's legacy continues to thrive.

    In 2021, Grosskopf and the members of Helloween embarked on the highly anticipated "Pumpkins United World Tour," which united past and present members, including Kai Hansen and Michael Kiske, on stage. The tour celebrated Helloween's iconic discography and marked a significant milestone in the band's history.

    Markus Grosskopf's contribution to the world of heavy metal, particularly through his work with Helloween, has left an indelible mark. His mastery of the bass guitar, coupled with his songwriting prowess, has influenced countless musicians and continues to inspire new generations of metal enthusiasts.

    As a bass player and a dedicated member of Helloween, Markus Grosskopf's musical journey exemplifies the power of passion, talent, and perseverance, ensuring his place among the legends of the metal genre.

  • Michael Weikath - Guitars

    Michael Weikath Michael Ingo Joachim Weikath, commonly known as Michael Weikath, is a German guitarist and founding member of the renowned Speed/Power Metal band "Helloween." Born on August 7, 1962, in Hamburg, Germany, Weikath's musical journey began at a young age.

    In 1983, Weikath played a pivotal role in the formation of Helloween alongside Kai Hansen, Markus Grosskopf, Ingo Schwichtenberg, and Michael Kiske. As one of the primary songwriters and guitarists for the band, Weikath contributed significantly to the development of their unique sound, characterized by fast-paced guitar solos, intricate melodies, and epic compositions.

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    During the 1980s, Helloween released several albums that solidified their status as pioneers of the Power Metal genre. Weikath's exceptional guitar skills and songwriting abilities were prominently showcased on these records.
    Throughout the 1980s, Weikath's guitar playing and songwriting helped shape Helloween's sound and established them as one of the leading forces in the Power Metal genre. His contributions were vital in defining the band's musical direction, characterized by virtuosic guitar solos, harmonized melodies, and anthemic choruses.

    Beyond the 1980s, Michael Weikath continued his journey with Helloween, actively participating in the band's numerous lineup changes and creative endeavors. He remains an integral part of Helloween's legacy, contributing his distinctive guitar style and songwriting skills to the band's releases over the years.

    As a guitarist, Weikath's playing is characterized by technical precision, melodic sensibility, and a distinct tone. His contributions to Helloween's music have inspired countless aspiring guitarists and have left an indelible mark on the Power Metal genre.

    Michael Weikath's dedication, talent, and unwavering commitment to Helloween have contributed significantly to the band's enduring success and their status as one of the most influential bands in the history of Power Metal.

  • Ingo Schwichtenberg - Drums
    Ingo "Mr. Smile" Schwichtenberg was a renowned drummer and founding member of the German Speed/Power metal band "Helloween." Born on May 18, 1965, in Hamburg, Germany, Ingo showed a passion for music from a young age. His fascination with drums began at the age of six when he received a toy drum set as a gift. Little did anyone know that this gift would spark a lifelong love affair with rhythm and percussion.

    Ingo's talent and dedication quickly became apparent as he progressed from his toy drum set to taking proper drumming lessons. He honed his skills diligently and, as a teenager, began performing in various local bands in the Hamburg music scene. Ingo's passion for heavy metal led him to explore the emerging Speed and Power metal genres, which were gaining popularity in the early 1980s.

    In 1983, Ingo Schwichtenberg joined forces with guitarist Kai Hansen, bassist Markus Grosskopf, and vocalist Michael Kiske to form the band "Helloween." This line-up would go on to become one of the most influential and successful bands in the history of Power metal. Ingo's powerful drumming style and infectious energy behind the kit played a crucial role in shaping the band's sound and identity.

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    "Helloween" released their debut album, "Walls of Jericho," in 1985, which showcased the band's fast-paced, melodic sound and propelled them into the international metal scene. Ingo's drumming skills were widely praised, and his charismatic stage presence earned him the nickname "Mr. Smile" due to his ever-present grin while performing.

    Over the course of the next eight years, Ingo Schwichtenberg contributed to the success of Helloween by recording and touring with the band on numerous albums, including the landmark releases "Keeper of the Seven Keys Part I" (1987) and "Keeper of the Seven Keys Part II" (1988). These albums solidified Helloween's position as one of the leading forces in the Power metal genre.

    However, Ingo struggled with personal challenges during this time. He battled depression, which eventually took a toll on his mental health and affected his ability to continue performing with the same enthusiasm and dedication as before. Ingo left Helloween in 1993, marking the end of an era for both the band and himself.

    Tragically, Ingo Schwichtenberg's struggle with mental health persisted after his departure from Helloween. On March 8, 1995, at the age of 29, he passed away in Hamburg, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most talented and influential drummers in Power metal history.

    Ingo's contribution to the development of Helloween's signature sound and his impact on the Power metal genre as a whole cannot be overstated. His energetic drumming and infectious stage presence continue to inspire drummers and metal musicians to this day. Although his life was cut short, Ingo Schwichtenberg's musical legacy lives on through his recordings and the enduring influence he had on the metal community. He will always be remembered as a true pioneer and a beloved member of the Helloween family.

  • Michael Kiske - Lead Vocals

    Michael Kiske - Lead singer with the Germany Speed/Power Metal band "Helloween" from 1986 until 1993.

    Michael Kiske is a German musician, best known as the former lead vocalist of the influential German power metal band Helloween. Born on January 24, 1968, in Hamburg, Germany, Kiske's soaring and melodic vocal style contributed significantly to Helloween's success during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

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    Kiske joined Helloween in 1986, just before the release of their landmark album "Keeper of the Seven Keys Part I." With his impressive vocal range and ability to hit high notes with precision, Kiske became one of the defining voices of the power metal genre. He showcased his vocal talents on albums like "Keeper of the Seven Keys Part II" (1988) and "Pink Bubbles Go Ape" (1991).

    Kiske's voice possessed a unique blend of power, clarity, and emotion, making him a favorite among fans of melodic and progressive metal. He often incorporated a wide range of vocal techniques, including multi-layered harmonies, operatic flourishes, and intense vocal acrobatics, elevating Helloween's music to new heights.

    However, Kiske's time with Helloween was not without its challenges. Creative differences and tensions within the band eventually led to his departure in 1993. After leaving Helloween, Kiske embarked on a solo career, releasing albums such as "Instant Clarity" (1996) and "Place Vendôme" (2005).

    Throughout his solo career, Kiske explored various musical styles beyond metal, incorporating elements of hard rock, progressive rock, and even classical music. He collaborated with numerous artists, including Tobias Sammet's Avantasia project, where he provided vocals for multiple albums.

    In 2017, Kiske reunited with Helloween for the "Pumpkins United" tour, featuring a lineup that included current and former members of the band. The tour was met with great enthusiasm from fans, and Kiske's return to the stage with Helloween was highly anticipated.

    Michael Kiske's vocal abilities and contributions to the power metal genre have earned him a revered status among metal fans worldwide. His influence can be heard in the work of many contemporary metal vocalists, and his performances continue to captivate audiences with their power and beauty.

  • Kai Hansen

    Kai Hansen a German Singer and Guitar Player which got famous by performing in German 1st Tier bands like: Helloween , "Gamma Ray" , "Iron Fist" and other bands. He was born on 17 January 17 1963, in Hamburg, Germany.

    Hansen began his music career in the early 1980s as the guitarist and vocalist of the band Gentry, which later evolved into Helloween. Helloween's debut album, "Walls of Jericho", was released in 1985 and helped to define the power metal genre. Hansen's guitar playing and songwriting were a significant part of the band's success, and he remained with the band until 1989.

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    In 1989, Hansen left Helloween to form his own band, "Gamma Ray. The band's debut album, "Heading for Tomorrow", was released the same year and helped to establish Gamma Ray as one of the premier power metal bands. Hansen continued to lead the band and released numerous critically acclaimed albums with them throughout the 1990s and 2000s.

    In addition to his work with Helloween and Gamma Ray, Hansen has also collaborated with other musicians, including "Blind Guardian" and Avantasia. He has also released solo albums under the name Kai Hansen.

    Hansen's guitar playing is characterized by his technical proficiency and melodic sensibility. His solos are known for their emotional depth and expressiveness, and his songwriting often incorporates themes of science fiction and fantasy.

    Hansen's influence on the power metal genre is significant, and he is widely regarded as one of the genre's most important figures. His contributions to Helloween and Gamma Ray have helped to define and shape power metal, and his work continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world.

    In addition to his music career, Hansen is also known for his love of motorcycles and is an avid rider. He continues to perform and record music with Gamma Ray and remains a prominent figure in the power metal scene.

Tracklisting Side One:
  1. Invitation
  2. Eagle Fly Free
  3. You Always Walk Alone
  4. Rise and Fall
  5. Dr Stein
  6. We Got The Right
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. March of Time
  2. I Want Out
  3. Keeper of the Seven Keys

HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II High Resolution & Quality Photos

Front Cover Photo Of HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II
Front Cover Photo Of HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II

Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )

Photo Of The Back Cover HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II
Photo of album back cover HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II
Photo of the inside cover HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II
Photo of album back cover HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II
Photo of the inside cover HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II
Photo of album back cover HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II
Photo of the custom inner sleeve HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II
Photo of album back cover HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II
Photo of the custom inner sleeve HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II
Photo of album back cover HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II
Close up of HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II record's label
Photo of record label of HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II
Photo of Side One: HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II
Photo of record 1 of HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II
Photo of Side Two: HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II
Photo of record 2   of HELLOWEEN - Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part II