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IRON MAIDEN : "DANCE OF DEATH"
Reviewed by DARIEL SUAREZ
Maiden is back and in top form. The new album Dance of Death certainly surpasses any expectations that Iron Maiden fans had, but most importantly it proves to the world that good old classic heavy metal still stands the test of time and that metal fans are in need of better music. The album has been a huge success around the globe and for good reason.
The hardcore Iron Maiden followers got an album which contains a little bit of highlights, in terms of sound, from the different Maiden eras and music fans received an EP that offers some of the best songs in the genre in quite some time. The harmonies are still there, in good old Maiden fashion; the long acoustic intros with strings in the background, the blistering solos coming from the three guitar attack of Adrian, Janick and Dave and the riffs that have been a signature in Iron Maiden’s galloping sound throughout the years. Drummer Nicko gives us some good double bass work never heard before in Maiden’s music and Bruce Dickinson’s vocals soar like always, with the perfect balance of melody and eeriness.
The writing is nothing short of impressive with bassist Stave Harris leading the charge as usual. Songs like Rainmaker, Face in the Sand, Gates of Tomorrow, No More Lies and the epic title track can keep you banging your head or simply listening to the beautiful melodies and powerful arrangements, whichever you prefer. Paschendale is definitely the highlight of the album, a song with a World War I theme that just rocks! The rest of the tracks in the album are all solid and admirable, with the guys showing their softer side on the last song, titled Journeyman.
Dance of Death does not follow any trends or styles except Iron Maiden’s own. This individuality is something the bands of today have lost. This album is more than just being magnificent - it offers hope that there will be a brighter future in the world of heavy metal.