SEVENTH SON OF A SEVENTH SON

It is considered Maidens most "prog" album although I tend not to care about classifications in music. Rush is Rush. Yes is Yes. King Crimson is King Crimson, and Iron Maiden is Iron Maiden. I play guitar myself and I go by what I like. If it rocks and it's intricate and intelligent, I'll like it. If it is Nickelback, I'll puke!

Anyway, this has been my favorite Maiden album for a long time, but it's hard to pick it over Piece of Mind or Powerslave so I can't say it IS the best, but I lean heavily toward this one. Everything came together for this one and I don't recall it being received negatively at all as I've heard others say. It was #1 in the UK. Went platinum in the USA and they headlined Monsters of Rock at Donnington. They had 3 singles released off of this all in the top 10 and a live video as well. I would say that this or Powerslave could be considered the height of Iron Maidens' career.

I think they should have played this album from front to back on tour like they did with A Matter of Life and Death. From front to back this album is excellent. There's not a bad song here or even a good song. there are only great songs, great production, and great leads. The title track is absolutely insane. Bruce sings so powerfully and the leads and instrumental passages that complete the song are some of the best work Maiden has ever done. All the songs flow into each other and the moods and atmospheres they create are great.

Nothing more to say, this is a must own.