Seven Songs for Those Who Disagree with Iron Maiden
It might be said that Metallica is currently the only metal band bigger than Iron Maiden in the globe. Even after over 45 years of recording, Maiden continues to sell out stadiums and arenas throughout the world, and a large number of fans are excited to hear their new songs. Though “Run to the Hills” comes near because of its early MTV exposure, Maiden doesn’t have many popular singles that the average American is familiar with, unlike many of their counterparts.
Despite having several Top-10 singles in their native country, the British band has always favored longer, more dramatic songs over ones that could be radio fill-ins. Seventh Son of a Seventh Son (1988), which is generally more melodic and includes background keyboards for color, is one of their most approachable albums; even so, it still sounds a lot like Maiden. Not a crossover for pop. Furthermore, it’s a fact that fans like Eddie, the band’s mascot, who has appeared on all of the band’s albums and single covers.
However, even among the legendary band’s lofty and frequently long song library, there are also more palatable tracks that, like other pieces in their history, address a variety of subjects that frequently go beyond what one would anticipate for heavy metal material. The band’s subject diversity has set them apart from most of their colleagues, even in addition to the music itself. And after all these years, the original group, which included drummer Nicko McBrain, bassist Steve Harris, guitarists Adrian Smith and Dave Murray, singer Bruce Dickinson, and six-string player Janick Gers (who joined in 1990 to replace Smith for over ten years), is still very successful both live and in the studio.
The next seven songs feature Maiden in a more “accessible” format that may pique the interest of rock enthusiasts who aren’t afraid of the heavier stuff.
“Flight of Icarus” from Piece of Mind (1983)
This was the band’s first mid-tempo song to be used as a promotional single, and it came from their fourth album. Bruce Dickinson, the band’s frontman, promoted the song and its sweeping choruses, and it became their first and only American Top 10 mainstream rock radio hit. It’s a theatrical rendition of the myth of Icarus, with the exception that in this parallel universe, his father really lets his son fly in the direction of the sun, which ends in catastrophe.
“Wasted Years” from Somewhere in Time (1986)
This song, which was written by guitarist Adrian Smith alone, is one of the few by Maiden that has a strong guitar hook and exciting vocal harmonies. Its topic is universal since it deals with living life to the fullest and moving on rather than dwelling on the past. A lot of Maiden newcomers may connect with it because of the song’s strength and lyrical subject.
“Reach Out” from Somewhere in Time (B-side, 1986)
Alright, I lied. Adrian Smith sings over a very lively ballad with bright guitar tones that sounds extremely un-Maiden on the B-side to “Wasted Years.” And that’s a positive aspect. Sometimes it’s good to surprise folks with a song like “Reach Out,” which is a hidden gem in the band’s discography. (A few of Maiden’s other covers also contain surprises.) When Dickinson does appear, she contributes strong harmonies and backing vocals. For many individuals, the message in this song by former Bad Company and Samson guitarist Dave Colwell is straightforward and understandable.
Don’t get me wrong
You always apologize
It’s just your way
Of making a scene
You need to be loved
It’s not such a crime
Come on, reach out
And let someone into your life
“Can I Play with Madness” from Seventh Son of a Seventh Son (1988)
Bring up the fact that Graham Chapman appeared in the music video for this energetic hit with any Monty Python enthusiasts you know. It has a bright, lyrical vibe to it, and, unusually for a Maiden piece, there’s also a nice cowbell undertone. (But not to the point of “more cowbell”). The song peaked at number three in the UK and at number ten in four other nations. A wonderful touch is the pace and groove shifts in the middle.
“The Clairvoyant” from Seventh Son of a Seventh Son (1988)
“The Clairvoyant,” one of the two tracks from Maiden’s debut album to use keyboards (gasp! ), is a catchy song with a lot of airy synths and upbeat guitar harmonies. Subsequently, the chorus changes the beat and becomes somewhat more forceful. One of their greatest hits in the UK, it peaked at number 10 there. Although it’s not suitable for American radio, Maiden and metal fans have never given a damn. To the epics, they sing along as well.
“Rainmaker” from Dance of Death (2003)
Throughout the upbeat song “Rainmaker,” Dickinson adopts a fairly melodic vocal style that lends Maiden a slightly more approachable sound. He speaks about transformation and rebirth in the face of adversity or the shadow of past issues, giving the song an upbeat, uplifting feel. Even if a lot of fans adore many of Maiden’s epic songs, some of their best songs are still “shorter” (i.e., average duration).
“A Different World” from A Matter of Life and Death (2006)
With Dickinson singing in the iconic “air raid siren” style, the opening track of the band’s 14th studio album begins like a classic Maiden rocker. However, in the chorus, Dickinson pulls back and adopts a lower range. The contrary of what one may anticipate occurs. The list’s most powerful song, “A Different World,” includes a deep message and subtle guitar harmonies throughout the intermission.
Tell me what you can hear and then tell me what you see
Everybody has a different way to view the world
I would like you to know, when you see the simple things
To appreciate this life it’s not too late to learn
