Iron Maiden's Reviews
Piece Of Mind (Average Rating: 9.24 out of 10)
Maiden's best (Rated this album with 8 out of 10)
Reviewed by
astyanax
from Columbia, MO USA
1983 was a new focal point for metal. In that year, Maiden released "Piece of Mind", probably their best work. In that same year, Metallica released its debut, "Kill 'em All" which was to take the metal world by storm and change it in such a way that Maiden would probably be left in the category of has beens. This unfortunately proved true. Maiden, with the possible exception of Powerslave, didn't enjoy much more success and were left to the realm of obscurity. The little air play and MTV exposure they received was only another nail in the coffin. But one should not be deterred from the lack of popularity that followed. Maiden still released a great album in "Piece of Mind."Featuring the drumming of Nicko McBrain, this Maiden album was more rhthymically precise and harder than previous albums. Combine that along with Steve Harris' booming bass lines along in counterpoint with the guitars of Adrian Smith and Dave Murray and you have a great instrumental band. And when there is no vocal, the instrumental sections soar. But, you have to have a vocalist and Bruce Dickinson comes forth in grand style. Typical 80s metal you say? Perhaps, but with some more imagination. The approach to mythical (Flight of Icarus) and fantasy subjects (To tame a land) coupled with politically charged rallying cries against communist Russia (Where Eagles Dare and the Trooper) puts Maiden in a category all their own. This is a great listen. The songs are fast and heavy and do not grow old. The only complaint I have is that they should have done more on this album. Nevertheless, it is worth a listen.
Buy this album on Amazon at $16.98
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