HELLOWEEN - SELF-TITLED DEBUT ALBUM 12" Vinyl Mini-LP

Helloween's self-titled debut, released on 26 May 1985, stands as a pivotal moment in power metal history. Produced by Harris Johns, the mini-LP showcased the band's fusion of speed and melody. With tracks like "Starlight" and "Murderer," it left an indelible mark on the metal scene, influencing a new wave of bands. This iconic album remains a testament to Helloween's innovation and enduring impact on the genre.

 

High Resolution #1 Photo HELLOWEEN Self-Titled Debut Album

"Helloween self-titled" Album Description:

In the realm of heavy metal, few bands have left an indelible mark as significant as Helloween. The German power metal pioneers burst onto the scene with their self-titled debut album, a 12" vinyl mini-LP that would set the stage for a genre-defining career. Released in1985, this iconic record not only showcased the band's musical prowess but also played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of power metal.

The creation of Helloween's debut album can be traced back to the vibrant metal scene of the early 1980s. In the wake of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), European bands began exploring new sonic territories, pushing the boundaries of traditional metal. Helloween emerged from this milieu, blending the aggression of metal with melodic and symphonic elements, laying the foundation for what would later be recognized as power metal.

The recording process for the album took place at Musiclab Studios in West Berlin, Germany. Under the guidance of producer Harris Johns, the band—comprised of Kai Hansen (vocals/guitar), Michael Weikath (guitar), Markus Grosskopf (bass), and Ingo Schwichtenberg (drums)—crafted a sound that was both raw and polished. The result was a dynamic fusion of speed and melody, punctuated by Hansen's soaring vocals and the intricate guitar work of Weikath.

The mini-LP format, with its limited number of tracks, challenged Helloween to make each song count. The album featured five original compositions, including the anthemic "Starlight" and the frenetic "Murderer." The concise yet impactful tracklist contributed to the album's accessibility and replay value, cementing its status as a classic in the power metal canon.

Collector Notes: 

The Helloween EP (mini-LP) is the debut recording by the German band Helloween.

Matrix/Stamper Codes:
Side A: Mastered by SNB N 0021-A
Side B: Mastered by SNB N 0021-B

It was released in 1985 on Noise Records and was followed up by their first full-length album, "Walls of Jericho" later that year.

Music Genre:

  Power Speed Thrash Metal 

Album Production information:

The album "Helloween" was produced by Helloween

Recorded and mixed January/February 1985 at Musiclab, Studio, Berlin

Engineered and mixed by Harris "I dont Know" Johns

Harris Johns is a prominent European music producer renowned for his contributions to the heavy metal and punk genres. With a career spanning several decades, he has worked with numerous iconic bands, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. Born in the late 1950s, Harris Johns developed a passion for music at an early age and pursued his dreams with unwavering determination.

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In the late 1970s, Harris Johns emerged as a key figure in the burgeoning heavy metal and punk scene. His unique talent and distinctive approach to music production quickly caught the attention of many prominent bands. With a desire to create powerful and impactful soundscapes, he became known for his ability to capture the raw energy and intensity of these genres.

Throughout his career, Harris Johns has collaborated with a plethora of big-name bands, solidifying his reputation as a go-to producer. His notable works include projects with Helloween, Coroner, Tankard, Sodom, Voivod, Kreator, Exumer, Ratos de Porão, Slime, Daily Terror, and many others. Each album he worked on showcased his exceptional skill in sculpting the sonic landscapes that defined the heavy metal and punk movements.

For over a decade, Harris Johns operated his studio, Music Lab Berlin Studio, which served as the creative hub for many of his productions. In an effort to further his artistic vision, he established Spiderhouse, a recording facility situated in a former guest house in the countryside near Berlin. For ten years, Spiderhouse became a sanctuary where he could channel his creativity and bring forth groundbreaking music.

In 2007, Harris Johns made the decision to reopen the Music Lab Berlin, reestablishing it as a prime destination for bands seeking his expertise in music production. The studio became a hub of creativity and collaboration, attracting both established acts and up-and-coming artists. However, in 2016, Harris Johns decided to step away from the studio, concluding a significant chapter in his illustrious career.

Despite stepping back from the day-to-day operations of Music Lab Berlin, Harris Johns continues to contribute to the music industry. He remains active as a producer and dedicates his time to teaching music production skills. His wealth of knowledge and experience has made him an invaluable resource for aspiring producers and musicians, as he imparts his expertise and nurtures the next generation of talent.

As we reflect upon the 1980s, it becomes evident that Harris Johns' discography during this era stands as a testament to his immense talent. Some of the notable albums he worked on include groundbreaking releases such as:

These albums showcase Harris Johns' ability to capture the essence and intensity of the heavy metal and punk genres, earning him a place in music history.

Harris Johns' impact on the heavy metal and punk scenes cannot be understated. His talent, dedication, and distinctive approach to music production have left an indelible mark on the industry. As he continues to produce and educate, Harris Johns remains a respected and influential figure, shaping the future of music for generations to come.

Album cover design by Uwe Karczewski

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


Record Label & Catalognr:

  Noise N 0021  

Media Format:

  12" Vinyl EP  Gramophone Record
Album weight: 210 gram  

Year & Country:

  1985 Made in Germany  
Band Members and Musicians on: Helloween Self-titled Debut Album
Complete Track Listing of: "Helloween"
    Side One:
  1. Starlight
  2. Murderer
  3. Warrior
    Side Two:
  1. Victim of Fate
  2. Cry for Freedom
Album Cover Photo Gallery of: Helloween Self-titled Debut Album

High Resolution #1 Photo HELLOWEEN Self-Titled Debut Album

High Resolution Photo Album Back Cover  

High Resolution #2 Photo HELLOWEEN Self-Titled Debut Album

High Resolution Photo Of the Black Noise Record Label with White Lettering

High Resolution #3 Photo HELLOWEEN Self-Titled Debut Album

 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 ).