Maiden is Back! Ok, maybe you didn't hear me... IRON MAIDEN IS BACK!!! Yes this is a big deal for music as one of the bands who helped define Metal and guitar harmonies are back to take over the world once again. After two lackluster and borderline horrendous efforts with "vocalist" (some may say otherwise - I know I do) Blaze Bailey, the band has reunited with frontman Bruce Dickinson and guitarist Adrian Smith to give us one of the most anticipated releases of the new millenium, Brave New World. Dickinson comes from releasing two of the best Metal CD's of the 90's (Accident of Birth and The Chemical Wedding) which featured a newfound pseudo-modern heaviness that very much shows up on Brave New World, especially on tracks like "Wicker Man." Also, guitar fans listen up, this is the first time that Maiden features three guitarists in one of their albums. And the triple axe attack delivers as Jannick Gers, Dave Murray and Adrian Smith provide an onslaught of shred mastery.

The classic Maiden sound is definitely there as "Ghost of The Navigator" provides an instant reminder of why it is that you love Maiden. Dickinson sounds better than ever as his God-like operatic vocals soar all over this CD. Steve Harris and Nicko McBrain instantly send you into headbanging mode with their intense playing and the guitars are just out of this world. Instant six-string bliss! The band has also tackled the progressive realm ("Nomad"), which makes for an interesting and captivating listening experience. Be forewarned that after a couple of listens, Brave New World grows on you like the ivy at Wrigley Field in the month of June.

While Brave New World does not capture the utter brilliance of Number of The Beast and Piece of Mind, it's still a great record that ranks very high when being compared to other Maiden releases. The album only adds to Iron Maiden's legendary status and YOU should have it in your collection.

Shred Pick - "The Fallen Angel" (4:00)

Reviewed by Henry Bocanegra

Check out the Official Iron Maiden Website

Check out the Official Bruce Dickinson Website

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