Helloween Powers Through The Warfield

Helloween
The Warfield
April 30, 2026

Photos by Raymond Ahner

Legendary German power metallers Helloween steamrolled their way into the Warfield in San Francisco recently, delivering an electrifying performance that showed they are still on top of their game, 40+ years later. Known as pioneers of the power metal genre, the band lived up to their reputation with a show that was just as dynamic as it was nostalgic.

From the opening notes of “March of Time” the energy in the packed room was immediately electric. Vocalists Michael Kiske and Andi Deris engaged with the crowd, while guitarists Michael Weikath, Kai Hansen, and Sascha Gerstner provided the riffs and brought every song to life. The band’s effortlessly flawless musicianship was on full display, with intricate guitar harmonies and pounding drums driving each song with intensity.

Highlights from the band’s 21-song set included “Future World,” “A Tale That Wasn’t Right,” “Hell Was Made in Heaven,” and “Heavy Metal (Is the Law),” which had the entire crowd singing along. The blend of powerful melodies and rapid-fire guitar solos showcased just why Helloween has remained influential for decades.

After wrapping up the set with “Halloween,” the band returned for a four song encore highlighted by “Keeper of the Seven Keys,” which was a fitting and epic finale that left the fans wanting more.

Helloween’s performance was a triumphant reminder of their enduring legacy and the timeless appeal of their music. For fans of melodic metal with heart and soul, the show was an unforgettable experience.

Supporting the Helloween on the 40 Years Anniversary tour was Beast in Black, from Helsinki, Finland. With a power metal sound influenced by Helloween, they were the perfect choice to open the show. Although their 45-minute set was brief, the band made the most of it, and definitely did their jobs bringing the crowd into the room and to the front of the stage early.

Here’s more photos of both bands by Raymond Ahner: