The Essentials: Number 4

Iron Maiden

4. Iron Maiden -- In its genre, this is the standard by which all metal is measured. A band for which there is no equal. There is no Beatles vs. Stones, Zeppelin vs. Sabbath debate here. It starts and ends with Maiden. Unlike the musical misdirection of most prog rock bands, Iron Maiden wrote epics about history, mythology, theatre and religion that were backed by some of the most incredible two guitar harmonies, blazing bass riffs and operatic vocals ever recorded. There were no "monster ballads" or senseless party songs like other arena bands of the day or stupid anthems from the spawn of commercialism that was hair metal. Each song tells a story ranging from the exploits of Alexander the Great, the charge of the Light Brigade or the defense of England by the Royal Air Force. Yes, this is thinking man's metal without the ridiculous 3 minute show off guitar solos or self gratifying performances. Maiden has always written, recorded and perfomed for one purpose: the legions of followers of Eddie the Corpse. The rest of the world be damned..