Pink Bubbles Go Ape

Pink Bubbles Go Ape is the fourth album on which Helloween, after Kai Hansen’s departure, steps into a poppier, more colorful style while keeping speed and lift. Michael Kiske’s clear high voice and the guitar of newly joined Roland Grapow carry a lighter melody than before to the fore. From the catchy drive of “Kids of the Century” and the momentum of “Back on the Streets” to the brightness of “Number One” and the lyricism of “Someone’s Crying,” the songs foreground the strength of their melody, while a cut like “The Chance” adds breadth. Its distinction is that, rather than leaning on an epic bent alone, it places its weight on the hooks and playfulness of shorter songs. Including some wavering natural to a transitional period after a core member’s change, it captures the band exploring new expressive breadth. In the difficult position of following the classic Keeper, Kiske’s voice and melodic sense are intact. Uniting a pop sense and metal drive, it is a record with an appeal particular to a transitional time.