INTERVIEW: HELLOWEEN – MICHAEL KISKE talks GIANTS & MONSTERS

It’s already been a huge 2025 for HELLOWEEN and now it’s time to announce the new album: GIANTS & MONSTERS which drops August 29th, preceded by first single and video for ‘This Is Tokyo’!

HELLOWEEN, the legendary German metal band with 21 gold and platinum awards and over ten million records sold, will release their highly anticipated new album GIANTS & MONSTERS this August. The album, now available for pre-order, follows their self-titled #1 2021 record and promises to be the most versatile and dynamic release of their career. Mixed at the legendary Wisseloord Studios in Hilversum, Netherlands (IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST, DEF LEPPARD etc.), GIANTS & MONSTERS reaffirms the band’s position at the pinnacle of the metal world.

We caught up with Michael Kiske for the second time this year to talk all about the album, the tour and so much more…

This year HELLOWEEN will celebrate four decades of metal mastery with a global 40th anniversary tour. The European leg begins in mid-October, with initial dates selling out quickly and additional shows in Madrid and Bochum already on sale. Featuring an ultimate set list packed with surprises, the tour will showcase the band’s unparalleled legacy and ongoing creative power.

GIANTS & MONSTERS pushes the boundaries of HELLOWEEN’s sound, thanks to the instincts of producers Charlie Bauerfeind and Dennis Ward, as well as the band’s relentless pursuit of excellence. Per example, drummer Dani Löble recorded all tracks using three different drum kits to capture the perfect vibe for each song, a testament to their attention to detail and love of experimentation.

The band’s chemistry continues to drive their success. “What keeps motivating us is the fact that we’re extremely different. It generates creative energy,” says guitarist Michael Weikath. Kai Hansen adds: “We try not to take ourselves and everything around us too seriously.” Deris sums it up: “In the end, we’re just seven guys who want to make music and enjoy the incomparable force that arises when we’re together. HELLOWEEN is way more powerful than the sum of its parts.”

With GIANTS & MONSTERS, HELLOWEEN boldly step into their fifth decade, proving once again why they remain one of the most influential and beloved bands in heavy metal.

GIANTS & MONSTERS – Track Listing: Giants On The Run | Savior Of The World | A Little Is A Little Too Much | We Can Be Gods | Into The Sun | This Is Tokyo | Universe (Gravity For Hearts) | Hand Of God | Under The Moonlight | Majestic

HELLOWEEN are:

Michael Kiske | vocals

Andi Deris | vocals

Kai Hansen | guitars, vocals

Michael Weikath |  guitars

Sascha Gerstner |  guitars

Markus Grosskopf | bass

Daniel Löble | drums

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About Mark Diggins 2022 Articles
Website Editor Head of Hard Rock and Blues Photographer and interviewer