Iron Maiden - Iron Maiden (1980)

And so it was born. The logo, the mascot, that Harris bass line, and the legend. Iron Maiden's debut record, straight out of the New Wave Of British Heavy metal, destined for massive stadium's and millions of record sales, although I doubt they knew it back then. Paul Di'anno on the vocals, more aggressive and street wise than Mr Dickinson who would take over the reigns, but in front of Murray and Stratton's lethal guitars, this is a classic metal assault that would be a huge foundation for a band that would become one of the world's biggest. Eight tracks, including the classic 'Running Free', 'Phantom Of The Opera' and 'Charlotte The Harlot', the band assembling an almost creepy alleyway of an atmosphere on this record - helped by the killer sleeve, designed by Derek Riggs, who would become a legend in his own right for creating the images of Eddie, the band mascot.

The album opens with the superb 'Prowler', setting the metal scene, whilst 'Remember Tomorrow' slows the pace, a street light flickers, a cat slinks through the dark, and the cut builds into a menacing stomp as Di'anno unleashes fury into the night. Clive Burr's drums are solid, in fact the guy's performances weren't given enough credit and after a handful of records he would be replaced by the drum loon Nico McBrain, but all the players have become a vital ingredient in Maiden's history. I was never a massive fan of the band, reaching 'Powerslave' then growing tired, but there's no denying the effect these early albums had on metalheads nationwide, and this debut, alongside follow-up 'Killers' have stood the test of time, although many of the classic cuts have been improved upon by the far superior croon of Bruce Dickinson, but it's also important to enjoy Di'anno's earthy wail amidst the Gothic chords. Stare at the cover and lose yourself.

7.5/10