IRON MAIDEN - HOLY SMOKE 12" MAXI SINGLE Vinyl

- Includes Giant Poster

"Holy Smoke" is Iron Maiden's 21st single and the first to feature guitarist Janick Gers, who joined the band in mid-1990. It was released just weeks before the album, "No Prayer for the Dying", and climbed to number three on the UK Singles Chart. The song deals with the many Televangelist scandals that took place in the United States in the late 1980s, including mentions of "Jimmy the Reptile" (a reference to Jimmy Swaggart), "The TV Queen" (a possible reference to Tammy Faye Bakker), Noah, and "plenty of bad preachers for the Devil to stoke." Contrary to what some believe, however, this song is not aimed at the Christian religion itself, but rather the people that abuse it to make gains for themselves. This is one of the very few Iron Maiden songs with profanity in the lyrics (for example, "I've lived in filth/I've lived in sin/and I still smell cleaner than the shit you're in"), which is replaced by gunshot sounds in censored versions.

 

IRON MAIDEN - Holy Smoke + Giant Poster 12" MAXI SINGLE Vinyl album front cover

Holy Smoke: Iron Maiden's 12" Maxi Single Vinyl Ignites a New Era Album Description:

In the heart of darkness, a new flame ignited, a holy smoke rising from the depths of change. Iron Maiden, forged in the fires of heavy metal, unleashed their fury upon the world in 1990 with a single that marked a turning point in their storied career. "Holy Smoke," a blazing anthem of rebellion and defiance, roared forth on a 12" maxi single vinyl, a behemoth of sound accompanied by a giant poster that captured the essence of the band's raw power.

This was a time of transition for Iron Maiden. The departure of guitarist Adrian Smith left a void, but the arrival of Janick Gers injected a fresh energy into their musical exploration. With Martin Birch at the helm, the legendary producer who had shaped their iconic sound since the early days, the band ventured into the hallowed halls of Barnyard Studios, seeking to redefine their sonic landscape.

"Holy Smoke" was a fiery declaration of intent. The song's galloping rhythm, Bruce Dickinson's soaring vocals, and the twin guitar attack of Dave Murray and Janick Gers created a sonic maelstrom that swept listeners away. The lyrics, penned by Dickinson, tackled themes of hypocrisy and religious extremism with unflinching honesty, sparking controversy and debate among fans and critics alike.

The 12" maxi single vinyl was a testament to Iron Maiden's commitment to sonic excellence. The larger format allowed for greater fidelity and a richer listening experience. The accompanying giant poster, adorned with the band's iconic imagery, was a visual feast for fans, a symbol of their unwavering loyalty.

"Holy Smoke" was more than just a single; it was a statement of purpose. It marked a new chapter in Iron Maiden's epic saga, a chapter filled with musical exploration, lyrical depth, and unwavering passion. It was a testament to their enduring legacy as one of the greatest heavy metal bands of all time.

Iron Maiden - Holy Smoke (Official Video):

Collector Notes:

This album includes the 60"x40" Holy Smoke Commemorative Tour-Poster

This album includes lyrics of "Holy Smoke" printed on the back cover as well as detailed IRON MAIDEN 1990 tour-information
 

Music Genre:

NWOBHM New Wave of British Heavy Metal 

Album Production Information:

The album: "IRON MAIDEN Holy Smoke Huge Poster 12" Maxi Single" was produced by: Martin Birch for Zomba Music Publishers
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Record Label & Catalognr:

Black EMI 12EM 153 

Media Format:

12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: xxx gram  

Year & Country:

1990 Made in UK  
Complete Track Listing of: IRON MAIDEN Holy Smoke Huge Poster 12" Maxi Single

The Song/tracks on "IRON MAIDEN Holy Smoke Huge Poster 12" Maxi Single" are

    Side One:
  • Holy Smoke
    Side Two:
  • All in your Mind
  • Kill Me Ce Soir

IRON MAIDEN - Vinyl Records Discography Home Page