Iron Maiden--The Number of the Beast

Iron Maiden--The Number of the Beast (1982) Rating--9.1 **U.S. Sales Certification--Platinum**

Iron Maiden's first album with Bruce Dickinson at the vocal helm, and a number of strong, emotional songs are held within. Maiden's trademark "gallop" makes a few appearances here, and the band continues to evolve musically. Dickinson had one of the classic 80's metal voices---both strength and range---and Maiden's music really benefited from it. A staple atop the metal explosion of the early '80s.
The title track is a classic, as are "Run To the Hills" and "22, Acacia Avenue". Both "Children of the Damned" and "Hallowed Be Thy Name" are slower, more moving pieces---but just as strong. This album marked the beginning of Maiden's rise to the top.
HOT CHOPS--The opening riff to "22, Acacia Avenue," while simplistic, is still powerful. Also, Vincent Price's voice intro to the title song is a timeless piece in Heavy Metal history. This is cool to play when little kids come walking up to the house trick-or-treating. Set some speakers up in the bushes near the door, and..... er... nevermind.
TRACK LIST: Invaders/Children of the Damned/The Prisoner/22, Acacia Avenue/The Number of the Beast/Run to the Hills/Gangland/Hallowed Be Thy Name

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