Iron Maiden - The Final Frontier (Universal Music Company) ****

It took few listens before this album really opened up its depth. The experience was a worthwhile one, as "The Final Frontier" proves to be a rewarding and addictive listen. Since reforming with Bruce Dickinson and Adrian Smith, Iron Maiden started to move into a very progressive direction. The records tend to be more demanding for the listener, but offer plenty of rewards once you get to the bottom of it. No longer are the songs just typical heavy metal anthems, the band was known for in the 80s, now the songs are very refined with rich structures, and vary in lengths. There are still one or two catchy tunes that get you throwing your fists in the air. "El Dorado" is such a song on this album, but the rest of the material is very demanding.

It's great to see Iron Maiden taking steps forward and not backtracking for cheap revision of former glories. It's something true Maiden fans have no problem understanding, yet the critics might be shouting for the hits, but this band takes no prisoners.

"The Final Frontier" is best to be served in its entirety, even at the 70 plus minutes mark does not feel overwhelming. It's almost like you don't want the record to end, yet many other albums of that length just can't maintain the listener's attention for that long. In the case of "The Final Frontier" you're likely to push the play button again.

Iron Maiden has delivered gold once again, perhaps that's their "El Dorado" after all. "The Final Frontier" is a challenge, now do your part and listen attentively, enjoy the final result.

 

Mark Kadzielawa