Heavy Maytal : Iron Maiden's "Iron Maiden" debut album

 

This 1980 classic redefined Heavy Metal with a sound that carried an even more punkish aggression than Judas Priest, but also the songwriting smarts of progressive. Steve Harris and Dave Murray, the only original members who played on this, are also in the current incarnation of the band. Drummer Clive Burr had a raw, energetic style that would evolve, with Harris' bass playing the most nuanced element in a song like "Sanctuary." The twin harmony parts that we now think of when it comes to this band were not at the forefront.

Paul Di'Anno's vocal style is grittier than Dickinson's more operatic belting, but he worked well for what the band was doing at the time, which was not far removed from bands like Thin Lizzy. Murray's playing feels more dominant than Dennis Stratton's. The yare both following the wandering path Harris leads them down on the power ballad "Remember Tomorrow," which also shows that Paul can actually sing really well when he puts his mind to it, though his voice breaks into falsetto way before Bruce's. Midway into the song, they are the gallop we know them for. 

The more upbeat "Running Free" follows the formula for what would become their anthemic arena rousing side. It remained one of their live staples. "Phantom of the Opera" is more overtly progressive than the other songs up to this point.  The guitar solo on this is clearly a Murray, as it showcases his melodic phrashing. Dennis is handling the higher background vocals, a role Adrian Smith would later take on. The instrumental "Transylvania" was written by Steve Harris for his previous band Smiler. It has faster riffs that would go on to inspire thrash bands to come. "Strange World" is another strong ballad that Paul shines on. Perhaps even more than "Remember Tomorrow".  There are more interesting guitar tones and phrases on this one as well. 

The more in your face "Charlotte the Harlot" is the first of four songs Dave Murray would write about this prostitute that he claims is based on a true story. I like the melodic middle section of this one. The album closes with the eponymous theme song, which they still play live. I will give this album a 10; it's one of the strongest debuts from a metal band. I would rank above the debuts of Priest, Slayer, and Metallica. 

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