Iron Maiden
Seventh Son of a Seventh Son
(EMI Records)
Released April 11, 1988
This is possibly the greatest achievement of Iron Maiden’s career. Their seventh studio album pushes all boundaries of the progressive template, relying heavily on synthesizers and writing a concept record to boot. What I loved about this attempt mostly is how ambitious it was to mount a tour around the mystical aspects of the story – including a dazzling stage show that pulls out all the stops and song lyrics that cover the idea of the number seven through mythology and religion. Bruce was at the top of his game on this album, utilizing his vocals to the fullest extent, while the likes of guitarist Adrian Smith and bassist Steve Harris providing all the progressive musical wizardry to match.
Some consider this the most ‘eighties’ of the band’s musical output, especially with the excessive use of synths, but there is no mistaking the epic melodies and powerful vocals blossoming on every track. The other strengths in regards to this album is the ever increasing homage to writer Scott Orson Card (The Tales of Alvin Maker) – utilizing science fiction and mysticism to help craft an album of crowning achievement.
Standout tracks include: “Infinite Dreams”, “Can I Play with Madness”, “Seventh Son of a Seventh Son” and “The Clairvoyant”.
I give this album a 9 out of 10
Horror Metal Sounds 