433. Helloween / Geisenkirchen, Germany 6-7-86 [Bootleg]. 1986. 5/5.

There are countless moments in life, in regards to music and concerts, when you wish that a band had thought to get a high-class recording of their work to share with the world. Thank goodness for bootleggers or many moments would have passed us by.
This is a B quality bootleg recording of Helloween on the Walls Of Jericho tour, with Kai Hansen on guitar and lead vocals, and the band in all of their glory. The copy I have has deteriorated over time, and the transfer to other media has somewhat affected it as well. However, once you adapt to the bootleg quality, and raise the level of volume a tad, it still sounds just awesome. More than anything else, it is great to hear songs like “Gorgar”, “Reptile” and “Guardians” live as they were at the time, along with the classics such as “Ride The Sky”, “Victim of Fate”, “Metal Invaders” and “Heavy Metal (Is The Law)”.
Everyone here is in top form. Kai is especially brilliant on vocals, but the dual guitars of Kai and Michael just sizzle, Marcus’ brilliant basslines are also at the forefront, and really take the breath away with what he does. Add in Ingo’s wonderful drumwork, and you have a sensational album.

Rating: The essence of what you want from a bootleg – a great band, great musicians and great songs. 5/5