HELLOWEEN will release “Live At Budokan”, which contains the footage of their first Nippon Budokan performance held on September 16, 2023, on December 11 in 3 formats: Blu-ray, DVD, and 2CD. Announced! In Japan, a bundle product that comes with a T-shirt will also be on sale exclusively at the VICTOR ONLINE STORE!
This is their first Nippon Budokan performance, which they have described as their “long-cherished desire” after a career spanning nearly 40 years. They also came to Japan with their latest album “Helloween” released in 2021, and several songs from that album were also performed. Among them, the live video of “Best Time” performed at Nippon Budokan was released in advance.
“Best Time” (Live at Budokan)
Guitarist Sascha Gerstner, the song’s composer, said, “’Best Time’ captures the energy of everything coming together perfectly and letting go of all negativity. For me, this song is an anthem for those nights when you move towards the future. That’s why this song really expresses that mood live. It makes everyone feel like they’re living in an amazing moment that will last forever.”
This release celebrates the grand finale of HELLOWEEN’s world tour from 2022 to 2023. The tour was a huge success, visiting over 30 countries on 3 continents, attracting huge crowds and showcasing the band’s enduring appeal. The performance at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo, which concluded the tour, was a great success. The lead guitarist trio of Michael Weikath, Kai Hansen, and Sascha Gerstner intertwine, alternating with goosebump-inducing duets between vocalists Michael Kiske and Andi Deris, and at times, the band’s original singer and vocalists. Supported by Kai Hansen, singer of 3.
Michael Kiske described the Nippon Budokan performance as “surreal, with the enthusiastic energy of the fans creating a magical atmosphere.” Bassist Markus Grosskopf said, “This venue has huge personal and historical significance,” and spoke of the humility and inspiration of playing in a place that has shaped their musical journey. .
The technical excellence of the live recording is also a highlight. With 29 cameras capturing every detail, the production team recorded each moment of the concert in incredible detail. This attention to detail gives Blu-ray and DVD an immersive viewing experience that puts you in the front row. More than just a live album, Live At Budokan is a celebration of HELLOWEEN’s continued influence on the metal scene. The band promises to bring a piece of musical history that embodies the spirit and energy of the legendary band at its peak, delivered directly to fans’ homes and cast the spell of an unforgettable performance.
Photo by Masayuki Noda
▼Release information
HELLOWEEN
live work
“Live At Budokan”
2024.12.11 ON SALE!!
[Blu-ray]
VIXP-107／￥6,800 (tax included)
[DVD]
VIBP-136／￥6,800 (tax included)
[2CD]
VICP-65626～65627／￥3,700 (tax included)
[VICTOR ONLINE STORE limited set]
Blu-ray + T-SHIRT／¥11,800 (tax included)
DVD + T-SHIRT／¥11,800 (tax included)
2CD + T-SHIRT/¥8,700 (tax included)
1.Orbit
2. Skyfall
3.Eagle Fly Free
4.Mass Pollution
5.Future World
6.Power
7. Save Us
8. Kai’s Medley
– Walls Of Jericho
– Metal Invaders
– Victim Of Fate
– Gorgar
– Ride The Sky
– Heavy Metal (Is The Law)
9. Forever And One (Neverland)
10. Best Time
11. Dr. Stein
12. How Many Tears
13.Perfect Gentleman
14. Keeper Of The Seven Keys
15. Drumokan (Blu-ray/DVD only)
16.I Want Out
Bonus footage (included only on Blu-ray/DVD)
Helltoon
Backstage
For reservationshere
