Iron Maiden’s sophomore album, Killers, released in 1981, is a unrelenting powerhouse that cemented the band’s status as leaders of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Building on the promise of their self-titled debut, Killers refines the band’s formula, delivering a blistering attack of galloping riffs, soaring vocals, and galloping rhythms.
Paul Di’Anno’s vocals are a raw snarl, perfectly suited to the aggressive music. While lacking the operatic range of his successor Bruce Dickinson, Di’Anno brings a streetwise snarl that injects an electrifying energy into tracks like “Purgatory” and “Wrathchild.” Steve Harris’s bass lines thunder beneath the guitars, driving the songs forward with an unwavering pulse. The dual guitar attack of Dave Murray and Adrian Smith is even more impressive here, with intricate harmonies and scorching solos that weave through the songs.
Killers isn’t just about brute force, though. Tracks like “Killers” and “Another Life” showcase the band’s burgeoning songwriting prowess, with memorable hooks and galloping tempos that stay lodged in your head long after the song is over. The album also features a surprising cover of Thin Lizzy’s classic “Phantom of the Opera,” a testament to Maiden’s reverence for their influences while also showcasing their ability to make a classic their own.
While some might criticize the production for being a bit thin compared to later albums, it adds to the raw energy of the music. Killers is a snapshot of a band on the cusp of greatness, hungry and determined to take the world by storm. It’s a essential album for any fan of heavy metal, and a masterclass in crafting short, sharp, and unforgettable metal anthems.
Highlights: “Purgatory,” “Wrathchild,” “Killers,” “Another Life,” “Phantom of the Opera” (cover)
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