That is one of the unique gifts of Iron Maiden as a band, is that they have the ability to make every song sound like an epic. Many of the tracks on this album, like "Paschendale" for example, are expansive and rich. You are greeted and trated to an explosion of sound from these rather theatrical displays of musical power. At some intervals however, some of the songs are a little too long - as many of them clock in at seven or eight minutes in length. Though, one could argue that this album should be listened to from beginning to end to absorb the flow. It starts off with a blast of energy from its two fairly short opening songs then sweeps you away with "No More Lies" - in a classic Iron Maiden style.

     As a whole, Dance of Death is another solid Iron Maiden album. It has some highlights and some low points. A couple of tracks sound a little uninspired, but most have skilled execution and contagious energy. Is it better than Brave New World? No. That album was a near-masterpiece. Though, this one valiantly continues this 21st century Iron Maiden trend. They seem just more focused. Perhaps it is because they have reunited with the seemingly ageless Bruce Dickinson, and with him back at the helm, they have simply been rejuvenated.

     This album doesn't really do anything much differently than previous Maiden albums, but it certainly does what they do best - just simply more of it. Dance of Death is something I would recommend for sure, as it is a very enjoyable heavy metal/fantasy metal piece. It has everything a Maiden album should have and a ltitle more - thanks to the additional keyboards and strings with its influence taken from Brave New World. Essentially, it doesn't quite live up to its predecessor, but it is still a good and worthwhile listen.

TRACK HIGHLIGHTS:

"Rainmaker"

"No More Lies"

"Dance of Death"

"Paschendale"

"Age of Innocence"

"New Frontier"

-Kurt L.

___________________________________________________________