IRON MAIDEN - KILLERS 12" Vinyl LP Album

- Canadian Release

Killers is the second album by IRON MAIDEN. It was the first of their albums to feature guitarist Adrian Smith, and the last to feature vocalist Paul Di'Anno, who left the band mid-tour due to problems with alcohol and cocaine. This was also the first album produced by veteran producer Martin Birch who went on to produce their next eight albums before retiring after Fear of the Dark in 1992
 

 

IRON MAIDEN - Killers Canada 12" Vinyl LP Album front cover

In the Heart of Darkness, a Killer's Tale Unfolds: Iron Maiden's Canadian Onslaught
Album Description:

From the depths of London's historic Battery Studios in 1981 emerged a sonic maelstrom destined to carve its name into the annals of heavy metal. Iron Maiden, the New Wave of British Heavy Metal's rising stars, unleashed their sophomore album, "Killers," upon the Canadian masses, a sonic testament to their growing prowess and unyielding spirit.

Produced by the legendary Martin Birch, who had previously helmed iconic works by Deep Purple and Black Sabbath, "Killers" showcased a band on the precipice of greatness. Birch's deft touch, along with the engineering expertise of Nigel Hewitt, captured the raw energy and intricate musicianship that would become Iron Maiden's signature.

The album's cover art, a chilling masterpiece by Derek Riggs, featured the band's iconic mascot, Eddie, lurking in the shadows, a menacing figure ready to strike. The imagery perfectly encapsulated the album's dark themes of murder, revenge, and the macabre.

Musically, "Killers" was a relentless assault of galloping rhythms, soaring vocals, and intricate guitar harmonies. Tracks like "Wrathchild," "Murders in the Rue Morgue," and the title track itself became instant anthems, their infectious energy resonating with metalheads across the nation. The album's historical context is significant, as it marked a pivotal moment in Iron Maiden's career. It solidified their position as one of the leading forces in the burgeoning heavy metal scene, setting the stage for their subsequent rise to global stardom.

The Canadian release of "Killers" on the Capitol Harvest label was a landmark event, introducing a new audience to the band's unique brand of metal. The album's raw power and uncompromising spirit struck a chord with Canadian fans, who embraced Iron Maiden with open arms.

While "Killers" was not without its controversies, with some critics deeming the lyrics too violent or graphic, the album's impact was undeniable. It cemented Iron Maiden's reputation as a force to be reckoned with, paving the way for a string of classic albums that would define the genre for decades to come.

Music Genre: 

NWOBHM New Wave of British Heavy Metal 

Album Production Information:

The album: "IRON MAIDEN - Killers Netherlands" was produced by: Martin Birch

Martin Birch was the genius behind the boards, defining the sound of rock and heavy metal through the ’70s and ’80s. From engineering Deep Purple and Fleetwood Mac to producing Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, and Rainbow, his touch turned riffs into legends and albums into milestones. Read on his career

Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Martin Birch, Nigel Hewitt

Nigel Hewitt a British Sound Engineer who has (during the 1980s) engineered vinyl albums for heavy metal bands like: Def Leppard, Iron Maiden, Dio, Mammoth and others.

This album was recorded at: Battery Studios, London

Battery Studios London has been a key recording centre since the 1970s, known for its high-end equipment and sessions spanning rock, pop, and metal. Countless artists shaped their sound here, leaving a production legacy that still influences modern studio work. Read more.

Album cover design: Derek Riggs

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 .

Album cover photography: Robert Ellis

Robert Ellis is a renowned music photographer celebrated for capturing iconic live performances and behind-the-scenes moments of legendary rock and metal bands. His compelling visual storytelling has appeared in countless magazines and album sleeves. Discover more through this dedicated profile.

Record Label: 

Capitol Harvest ST-12141 

Record Format

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

Year & Country 

1981 Made in Canada  
Band Members and Musicians on: IRON MAIDEN Killers
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Clive Burr - Drums
    Clive Burr rose from East End beginnings to become Iron Maiden’s early rhythmic engine, shaping their sound with speed, swing, and sharp precision. His career blazed intensely before illness cut it short, yet his impact on heavy metal drumming still echoes through generations. Read it Here
  • Dave Murray - Guitars
    Dave Murray, born 1956, is the melodic mastermind behind Iron Maiden‘s signature twin-guitar attack. A founding member, his fluid, expressive solos and harmonized leads have defined the band’s sound since 1975. With impeccable technique and a bluesy yet electrifying style, he’s a pillar of heavy metal guitar. Learn more about his journey here.
  • Paul Di'Anno - Lead Vocals
    Paul Di'Anno (1958–2024) powered Iron Maiden’s raw early era with his gritty voice and street-edge intensity, defining their first records with fire and attitude. His life swung between metal triumphs and hard personal battles, but his rebellious spirit and influence on the genre remain unmistakable. Read it Here
  • Steve Harris
    Steve Harris , born 1956, is the mastermind behind Iron Maiden’s galloping bass lines and epic compositions. Founding the band in 1975, his songwriting shaped metal anthems like The Trooper and Hallowed Be Thy Name. A pioneer of NWOBHM, his legacy as a bassist and visionary is untouchable. Discover his journey here.
  • Adrian Smith
    Adrian Smith, born 1957, is the riff architect behind Iron Maiden’s most electrifying anthems. Since joining in 1981, his intricate solos and melodic sensibility have shaped classics like Two Minutes to Midnight and The Trooper. A master of tone and technique, his legacy in metal is unmatched. Explore his story here.
Complete Track Listing of: IRON MAIDEN Killers
    Tracks:
  1. The Ides of March
  2. Wrathchild
  3. Murders in the Rue Morgue
  4. Another Life
  5. Genghis Khan
  6. Innocent Exile
  7. Killers
  8. Prodigal Son
  9. Purgatory
  10. Drifter

IRON MAIDEN - Vinyl Records Discography Home Page