Iron Maiden - The Book of Souls (3 LP, 2017)

This 3LP set was released in 2017.

Iron Maiden, the legendary heavy metal band, returns with "The Book of Souls," a monumental double album released on September 4, 2015, under Parlophone UK. Clocking in at an impressive 1 hour and 32 minutes, this 10-track opus is a testament to the band's enduring prowess and creativity in the realms of heavy metal, metal, hard rock, and rock.

The album opens with the epic "If Eternity Should Fail," setting the stage for a journey through a diverse landscape of musical brilliance. From the blistering speed of "Speed of Light" to the haunting melodies of "The Red and the Black," Iron Maiden showcases their signature sound and unparalleled musicianship. Tracks like "The Great Unknown" and "When the River Runs Deep" delve into deeper, more introspective themes, while "Death or Glory" and "Shadows of the Valley" bring back the raw energy and intensity that fans have come to love.

"The Book of Souls," the title track, is a standout piece, blending intricate guitar work with powerful vocals. "Tears of a Clown" offers a unique twist, incorporating a circus-like atmosphere into the heavy metal framework. The album concludes with the sprawling "Empire of the Clouds," a 16-minute epic that encapsulates the band's ability to craft complex, engaging compositions.

With "The Book of Souls," Iron Maiden continues to push the boundaries of their genre, delivering an album that is both a celebration of their legacy and a bold step forward. Fans of heavy metal and rock will find much to appreciate in this impressive collection of songs.