Killers - Iron Maiden

Killers

- Iron Maiden

(1981)

The Band -

Bass - Steve Harris

Guitars - Adrian Smith, Dave Murray

Vocals - Paul Di’Anno

Drums - Clive Burr

This was the third Iron Maiden album I bought. Although, I prefer Brave New World, this one is also quite amazing. This album features Adrian Smith, who replaces Dennis Stratton and Paul Di’Anno. Paul was the original vocalist of the band but my favourite IM singer will always be Bruce Dickinson. The band without Bruce and with Paul was quite different from the band I am more used to. Its much more raw, fast and furious. More aggressive. But still very technical and melodic.

The production is excellent. Martin Birch did a great job. If the band’s debut album (Iron Maiden) had one flaw, it was the production but this time around, its much better. I think that Paul Di’Anno is a better choice for the sort of songs that are in this album. Bruce, although my favourite vocalist, would not have blended with the music like Paul. Clive Burr also does a tremendous job as the drummer. One of the most significant highlights of this album is the birth of the guitar twins - Adrian Smith/Dave Murray. The duo would go on to provide us with some really great stuff. But as always its Steve Harris who holds the band together with his flawless bass.

1. Ides of March

A great instrumental. The only problem I have with this is that its way too short. But if you consider this and the next one as a single track, it sounds really amazing. The continuity is amazing.

Ratings - and 1/2

1. Wrathchild

Perhaps my favourite track of the album. Fast, furious - it describes what Iron Maiden is all about in a manner like no other song. The guitars and vocals seem to revolve around the bass. Every member makes his presence felt in this classic.

Ratings -

1. Murders in the Rue Morgue

Another superb song. My second favourite of the album. The guitars sort of clash with each other before Paul starts singing.

Ratings -

1. Another Life

Its a decent song. It comes under the shadow of the other greats of this album. Its a great song, in any case.

Ratings - and 1/2

1. Genghis Khan

A really amazing instrumental. One of the all time Iron Maiden greats. This is also my favourite IM instrumental. The guitars are quite decent but the real highlight of the song are the drums. The guitar riffs towards the end is really great.

Ratings -

1. Innocent Exile

The verses could have been a bit better but its another good song. Steve Harris does another fine job.

Ratings -

1. Killers

Another magnificent song. Good vocals and an even better guitar solo.

Ratings -

1. Prodigal Son

Its the softest and most melodic track of the album.

Ratings -

1. Purgatory

Perhaps the only weak track of the album. But even then I like the chorus.

Ratings -

1. Twilight Zone

Its the most unique song of the album but it has a decent chorus as well.

Ratings -

1. Drifters

Fast and furious. I don’t really like it very much.

Ratings -

Take my word for it, any Maiden or Metal fan would love this album. I guess it has seen some negative reviews over the years but its worth the money. But I would recommend you to first get introduced to the band with some of their more famous stuff.