POWERSLAVE

I bought this album somewhat randomly while I was looking for King Crimson albums. I have liked Iron Maiden for a while and figured what the hell It has Rime of the Ancient Mariner so I bought it. This is a turning point in Maidens career this is the album before the more ambitious 7th Son, its truly their last classic album. But despite singles like 2 minutes to Midnight and Aces High, which are metal classics, this album delves quite deeply into progressive territory. I heard somewhere that Maiden was Influenced by Jethro Tull. The lyrics seem to portray similar subjects: Anti-war and the mortality of men for example. The Album starts off with a bang with Aces High and follows with the classic maiden tune 2 minutes to Midnight. Next up is Losfer Words, for me this instrumental is the first sign of prog influence, this is one of those few Maiden instrumentals and for me the best. Flash of the blade is an underrated Maiden gem with its catchy intro and Medival themed lyrics. Back in the Village and the Duellist are the weak points of the album, although they aren't at all bad songs, Back in the Village being the sequel to The Prisoner from the Peice of Mind album. Next up are the progressive compositions, both of which are fantastic songs. The title track is a fantastic song clocking in at 7 minutes it seems longer, but in a good way. Bruce Dickinson wails about how each an every man is subject to death, while the galloping base line and heavy dark riff lead this song on a rampage, until the guitar solo kicks in; then it slows down wothout comprimising intensity, just to finish off better then it started. Rime of the Ancient Mariner is undoubtedly my favourite Maiden song its epic without losing the power which is their signature. Steve Harris can play Bass that is all i have to say. This song has to speak for itself, i cant adequately describe it. This album is commercial, but at the same time innovative. Its Musicianship is perhaps Maidens best, Guitars blazing and bass Rumbling full tilt and Bruce Dickinson never sounded better especially on Aces High. With all that said it still has some weaker songs, and it doesnt have me entranced the whole way through. But if you like metal alot and you like progressive influence this is the album for you.