•
Rating:
THE REVIEW
Uh-oh! We have been pointed out that this review also appears (in whole or in part) in "I 500 dischi fondamentali del rock" from Mucchio Extra.
NWOBHM, an unpronounceable acronym that stands for new wave of British heavy metal, a musical movement born at the end of the decade from the union of the classic hard rock of Deep Purple and Black Sabbath with the rage of punk. Leading this scene are Iron Maiden, a London ensemble led by bassist Steve Harris. Their unmistakable formula, made of sudden tempo changes, epic melodies, and twin guitar solos based on thirds intervals, finds its first and best composition in this 1980 debut, still featuring Paul di Anno on vocals, who was later replaced by Bruce Dickinson.
The best manifesto of a sound that soon became self-referential and stereotyped, but which at least here is supported by a good level of songwriting. This is demonstrated by titles such as "Prowler", "Running Free", and "Phantom of the Opera", appreciated even by those, like me, who hate metal. Honestly, the only metal I can listen to is by Pantera, Metallica, and Iron Maiden; the rest, in my opinion, is all c...p.
ded to: masahiro. . and all the "rosiconi" from DeBaser. . . the acid test is on its way. . .
Loading comments slowly
Summary by Bot
This review highlights Iron Maiden's 1980 debut album as a defining moment in the NWOBHM scene, blending classic hard rock with punk energy. Featuring Paul Di Anno on vocals, the album offers epic melodies, dynamic tempo changes, and iconic tracks such as "Prowler" and "Phantom of the Opera." Despite the author's general dislike for metal, this record stands out as a noteworthy exception for its strong songwriting and influential sound.Tracklist Lyrics Videos
Iron Maiden
British heavy metal band formed in 1975, led by bassist and principal songwriter Steve Harris. Famous for epic studio albums, theatrical live shows featuring vocalist Bruce Dickinson, and the mascot Eddie.180 Reviews
Other reviews
By jigoro
The Irons ARE the NWOBHM.
I even consider it superior to the much-touted ‘The Number Of The Beast’ two years later.
By carlito12
The initial guitar break, sharp yet at the same time overwhelming, transports you to a different dimension.
'Running Free' is one of the masterpieces: the rhythm is wonderful, making some of today’s groups envious.
By carloirons
"If a 20th-century rock band decided to call themselves Iron Maiden, they decided not to go unnoticed."
"The album is undoubtedly a masterpiece, one that can change your life. In my case, it fully succeeded. Long live the masters. UP THE IRONS!!!"
By thetrooper
It begins with "Prowler"... where Maiden flex their muscles and show that they are inventing something new.
Iron Maiden, never missing from any Maiden concert, is speed metal at its peak with Burr and an unbeatable Di'Anno.
By The Spirit
I press play and a distorted riff starts with a sharp and slightly dated sound... not punk but heavy metal and you can hear harmonizations that remind me of Thin Lizzy, but with a fury reminiscent of punk.
Absolutely top-notch the guitar duo formed by Dave Murray and Dennis Stratton: fast and fluid the first, more bluesy the second.
