- Genuine UK Release with solid Black Record label and Silver Lettering
"Aces High" tells the story of a British RAF pilot fighting against the German Luftwaffe during the Battle of Britain (1940), the first battle to be completely fought in the skies of the UK.
High above the battlefield where angels fear to tread, Iron Maiden's "Aces High" roars through the skies on its 12" Vinyl Maxi Single, a genuine UK release marked by its solid black record label and silver lettering. Released in 1984, this sonic missile catapults listeners back to the harrowing days of 1940, when the Battle of Britain raged and the fate of a nation hung in the balance.
"Aces High" dives headfirst into the historical context of World War II, encapsulating the raw courage and relentless spirit of the RAF pilots who took to the skies to fend off the German Luftwaffe. This was the first battle to be fought entirely in the air, and Iron Maiden's musical retelling does justice to its epic scale and profound significance. Through searing guitars and thunderous drums, the band paints a vivid picture of the aerial dogfights that decided the course of history.
Musically, "Aces High" is a tour de force of heavy metal brilliance. The track opens with a blistering riff that mimics the screech of a Spitfire's engine, launching the listener into the fray. Dave Murray and Adrian Smith's twin guitar attack soars and dives, their solos weaving a tapestry of heroism and tension. Steve Harris' galloping bass lines provide the heartbeat of the track, driving it forward with relentless energy, while Nicko McBrain's drums pound like anti-aircraft fire, punctuating the narrative with explosive precision. Bruce Dickinson's vocals, powerful and soaring, embody the indomitable spirit of the pilots, delivering each line with a sense of urgency and pride.
In the mid-'80s, heavy metal was evolving, and Iron Maiden stood at the vanguard, pushing the genre's boundaries. "Aces High" exemplifies their mastery of combining storytelling with musical complexity. The song's narrative of bravery in the face of overwhelming odds resonated deeply with fans, offering both a history lesson and a rallying cry. Its intricate composition and thematic depth set it apart, highlighting the band's unique ability to merge historical events with heavy metal intensity.
Controversy has always swirled around Iron Maiden, and "Aces High" was no exception. The band's use of wartime imagery and their unflinching portrayal of conflict sparked debates. Some critics viewed it as glorifying war, while others praised it as a tribute to the valor of those who fought. Regardless, the song's impact was undeniable, further cementing Iron Maiden's role as provocateurs who weren't afraid to tackle complex and often contentious subjects.
The production of "Aces High" was expertly handled by Martin Birch, a producer whose name is synonymous with the band's most iconic works. Recorded at Compass Point Studios in Nassau, Bahamas, and mixed at Electric Lady Studios in New York, the track benefits from Birch's meticulous attention to detail. His production is both polished and powerful, capturing the raw energy of the band while ensuring that each instrument and vocal shines with clarity.
Soar with the heroes, up in the skies, "Aces High" rises, where valor never dies. 1984, the year the legends told, Of battles fought and warriors bold.
In the heart of the '40s, the storm clouds form, RAF pilots, in the aerial war's storm. With Spitfires blazing, engines roar, Over Britain's fields, in the Second World War.
Iron Maiden strikes, with riffs of steel, Guitars of Murray and Smith, the fervor you feel. Adrian’s solos, like eagles in flight, Dave’s notes cutting through the thick of the fight.
Steve Harris commands, with bass lines that charge, Galloping rhythms, like a warrior at large. Nicko’s drums thunder, a barrage from the sky, Bombs and bullets, in rhythm, they fly.
Bruce Dickinson's voice, an echo of the brave, His vocals a call, from beyond the grave. “Running, scrambling, flying,” the chorus cries, A tribute to those who took to the skies.
Heavy metal’s evolution, in the late ‘80s, Iron Maiden led, with unfaltering gazes. “Aces High” captures, the spirit, the might, Of pilots who fought, for freedom, for light.
Controversy flared, as they often invite, With war's dark themes, and a soldier’s plight. Critics debated, fans rallied in throngs, For Maiden’s bold stance, in stories and songs.
Martin Birch, the maestro, behind the sound, In Nassau’s Compass Point, where legends are found. His production crisp, yet raw as a fight, Each note, each beat, is power and might.
In “Aces High,” the past is alive, Through metal’s thunder, the heroes survive. Iron Maiden's tale, of honor and flight, A legacy forged, in the battles of night.
Music Genre: NWOBHM New Wave of British Heavy Metal |
Album Production Information: The album: "IRON MAIDEN - Aces High Europe" was produced by: Martin Birch Martin Birch's: The man behind the soundboard, shaping iconic rock and metal anthems. His journey from sound engineer to legendary producer is a testament to passion and innovation. Read on his career
Album sleeve design Derek Riggs, The Artful Dodgers Derek Riggs is a British artist best known for creating the iconic mascot Eddie for the heavy metal band Iron Maiden. His distinctive style, blending sci-fi, horror, and fantasy, has defined the band's visual identity since their debut album in 1980. Riggs’ artwork has appeared on numerous album covers, singles, and merchandise. Learn more about his work on this page .
"The Artful Dodgers" a Hertfordshire based graphic design company fronted by Keith Peacock, Neil Smith and Michael Faulkner. |
Record Label & Catalognr: Black EMI 12EMI 5502 |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: 1984 Made in England |
Band Members and Musicians on: IRON MAIDEN - Aces High UK |
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Complete Track Listing of: IRON MAIDEN - Aces High UK |
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The Song/tracks on "IRON MAIDEN - Aces High UK" are
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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )
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