IRON MAIDEN - MAIDEN JAPAN - Canadian Release 12" VINYL EP ALBUM

The title of this album "Maiden Japan" is a pun off of Deep Purple's live album Made in Japan.

Album Info: This is a rare edition with 5 tracks

 

IRON MAIDEN - Maiden Japan Canadian Release 12" VINYL EP ALBUM front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

Album Description: 

Iron Maiden, one of the most iconic heavy metal bands of all time, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with their electrifying performances and genre-defining sound. Among their extensive discography, the "Maiden Japan" EP stands out as a remarkable live recording capturing the raw energy and captivating stage presence of the band. Originally released in Japan, the Canadian version of this 12" vinyl EP album holds a special place in the hearts of Iron Maiden fans worldwide.

The title itself, "Maiden Japan", is a clever play on words, paying homage to Deep Purple's legendary live album, "Made in Japan". This clever wordplay showcases Iron Maiden's wit and their appreciation for the rock and metal pioneers who came before them. It also serves as a testament to the band's desire to push boundaries and make their mark on the global music scene.

Produced by Iron Maiden and Doug Hall, the "Maiden Japan" EP captures the band at the peak of their powers. The EP showcases a selection of live tracks recorded during their performance at the Kosei Nenkin Hall in Nagoya, Japan in 1981. This particular performance has become legendary among Iron Maiden fans for its intensity and the band's ability to ignite the crowd with their electrifying stage presence.

The EP's production values are top-notch, allowing the listener to feel as if they are right in the middle of the crowd, experiencing the energy and excitement firsthand. The raw and energetic performances of classics like "Running Free", "Remember Tomorrow", "Killers", and "Innocent Exile" are a testament to the band's skill and musicianship. Iron Maiden's signature dual guitar harmonies, thunderous basslines, and soaring vocals are all captured in their full glory on this release.

The Canadian release of the "Maiden Japan" EP is an essential addition to any Iron Maiden collector's arsenal. The cover artwork, featuring a fierce samurai warrior clutching a blood-soaked sword against a backdrop of flames, perfectly encapsulates the band's fierce and unrelenting spirit. The EP's cover art was created by legendary Iron Maiden collaborator Derek Riggs, who played a crucial role in shaping the band's iconic visual identity.

In addition to the captivating cover art, the Canadian version of the "Maiden Japan" EP also includes detailed liner notes and credits, allowing fans to delve deeper into the band's history and the creation of this memorable live recording. The meticulous attention to detail is a testament to Iron Maiden's commitment to providing their fans with a complete and immersive experience.

Behind the scenes, the band's longtime manager, Rod Smallwood, played a vital role in ensuring the success and worldwide recognition of Iron Maiden. Smallwood's strategic guidance and unwavering dedication allowed the band to navigate the ever-changing music industry and establish themselves as one of the most influential metal acts of all time.

Furthermore, the album's live photography, captured by Hiro Ohno, adds a visual element that complements the powerful music contained within. Ohno's skillful lens perfectly captures the frenetic energy and passion of Iron Maiden's live performance, further enhancing the listener's connection to the music.

 

Music Genre: 

NWOBHM New Wave of British Heavy Metal 

Album Production information:

 

The album: "IRON MAIDEN Maiden Japan" was produced by: IRON MAIDEN and Doug Hall

Rod Smallwood - Manager

Hiro Ohno - Photographer

Kosei Nenkin Hall, Nagoya, Japan

Record Label: 

Capitol Harvest MLP 15000 

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 Maiden Japan
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Paul Di'Anno - lead vocals

    Paul Di'Anno, born Paul Andrews on 17 May 1958, in Chingford, Essex, England, is an English singer best known as the original lead vocalist for the iconic heavy metal band Iron Maiden. From his early beginnings in the punk scene to his influential role in shaping Iron Maiden's early sound, Di'Anno has left an indelible mark on the history of heavy metal.

    more...

    Di'Anno's musical journey began in the late 1970s when he joined a punk band called The Phantom as their lead singer. This early experience allowed him to develop his raw and gritty vocal style, characterized by its punk sensibilities. However, Di'Anno's talents extended beyond the punk genre, and it wasn't long before he caught the attention of Steve Harris, the bassist and primary songwriter of a rising heavy metal band known as Iron Maiden.

    In 1978, Di'Anno officially joined Iron Maiden as their lead vocalist, replacing their original singer, Dennis Wilcock. With Di'Anno at the helm, the band released their eponymous debut album, "Iron Maiden", in 1980. The album featured Di'Anno's powerful and dynamic vocals, contributing to the band's distinctive sound and helping establish them as a force to be reckoned with in the emerging New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement.

    Following the success of their debut album, Iron Maiden released their sophomore effort, "Killers", in 1981. Once again, Di'Anno's charismatic presence and commanding vocals contributed to the album's critical acclaim and solidified the band's growing fan base. However, tensions within the band, combined with Di'Anno's personal struggles, led to his departure from Iron Maiden in 1981.

    Despite leaving Iron Maiden, Di'Anno's impact on the band's early sound and success cannot be overstated. His contributions helped lay the foundation for Iron Maiden's subsequent rise to global fame. After his departure, Di'Anno embarked on a solo career, releasing albums such as "Di'Anno" (1984), "Nomad" (2000), and "The Living Dead" (2006).

    Over the years, Di'Anno has faced personal challenges, including legal troubles and health issues. He has also undergone several surgeries related to a knee injury. Nevertheless, his passion for music and his loyal fan base have kept his legacy alive.

    Despite no longer being part of Iron Maiden, Di'Anno's influence as the band's original lead vocalist remains significant. His contributions during the early years helped shape the band's identity and sound, and his energetic stage presence and distinctive voice have left an enduring impact on the heavy metal genre as a whole.

    Today, Paul Di'Anno is regarded as a legendary figure in the history of heavy metal, known for his unique vocal style, stage charisma, and contributions to Iron Maiden's early success. His indomitable spirit and passion for music continue to inspire new generations of fans and musicians alike.

  • Dave Murray - guitar

    Dave Murray (Full-name: David Michael Murray ) is an English guitarist best known as a member of the heavy metal band Iron Maiden. He was born on December 23, 1956 in London, England and is one of the founding members of Iron Maiden, along with bassist Steve Harris. Murray is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists in heavy metal music and has been a member of Iron Maiden since their inception in 1975.band.

    more...

    Murray's musical style is characterized by his fluid and intricate lead guitar playing, as well as his creative use of harmonies and solos. He is known for his distinctive sound and technical prowess, and is widely regarded as a pioneer of the heavy metal genre. He has played on all of Iron Maiden's studio albums and has been an integral part of the band's success, helping to establish their distinctive sound and style.

    In addition to his work with Iron Maiden, Murray has collaborated with a number of other musicians and bands over the years. He is widely regarded as one of the most talented and influential guitarists in heavy metal, and continues to tour and perform with Iron Maiden to this day. He remains an active member of the band and continues to play an important role in their ongoing success.

    Dave Murray has been a member of Iron Maiden since the band's formation in 1975 and has been a key part of their sound and style ever since. He is known for his fluid, melodic playing style and his ability to incorporate intricate harmonies and solos into Iron Maiden's music. Over the years, Murray has established himself as one of the greatest guitarists in heavy metal and has earned a reputation as a master of the genre.

    One of the hallmarks of Murray's playing style is his use of harmonies and counter-melodies in his solos. He often doubles his lead lines with a second guitar part, creating a rich and layered sound that has become a signature of Iron Maiden's music. He is also known for his creative use of bends and vibrato, as well as his ability to incorporate classical music and folk influences into his playing.

    Throughout his career with Iron Maiden, Murray has remained a dedicated and hard-working musician. He has continued to evolve his playing style and push the boundaries of heavy metal guitar, and has been an important part of Iron Maiden's success and longevity as a band. He remains an active member of the band and continues to tour and perform with them to this day, entertaining fans with his virtuosic guitar playing and his distinctive sound.

  • Adrian Smith - guitar, backing vocals

    Adrian Smith (Full-name: Adrian Frederick Smith) an English musician and songwriter, best known as the guitarist for the heavy metal band Iron Maiden. He was born on 27 February 1957 in Hackney, East London, England.

    more...

    Smith joined Iron Maiden in 1981 and has been a member of the band ever since. He has played a key role in the development of the band's sound and style, and has contributed numerous iconic and enduring guitar riffs and solos to their songs. Some of his most famous contributions include the guitar work on classics such as "Hallowed Be Thy Name," "Two Minutes to Midnight," and "The Trooper."

    Adrian Smith is known for his versatility and ability to adapt to different musical styles, which has been a key factor in his success as a guitarist. In addition to his work with Iron Maiden, he has also explored other musical genres and influences, including blues, classic rock, and folk. He has been praised for his ability to write and perform complex and intricate guitar parts that complement the songs and add depth and dimension to the overall sound of Iron Maiden.

    Smith has also been praised for his technical ability and his mastery of the guitar. He is known for his fast and fluid playing style, and his ability to incorporate complex harmonic and melodic ideas into his solos and lead lines. He is widely regarded as one of the most talented and influential guitarists of the heavy metal genre, and has been an inspiration to countless other musicians and aspiring guitarists.

    In addition to his musical contributions, Smith is also known for his strong work ethic and his commitment to his craft. He is widely regarded as one of the most dedicated and focused musicians in the heavy metal genre, and has been praised for his unwavering commitment to his music and his band.

    Despite his success and impact on the heavy metal genre, Smith has remained a humble and approachable person. He is widely respected and admired by fans and fellow musicians alike, and is considered one of the most important figures in the history of heavy metal music.

  • Steve Harris - bass, backing vocals

    Steve Harris (Full-name: Stephen Percy Harris ) an English musician, singer, and songwriter best known as the bassist and primary songwriter for the heavy metal band Iron Maiden. He was born on March 12, 1956 in Leytonstone, East London, England.

    more...

    Harris formed Iron Maiden in 1975 and has been a member of the band ever since. He has been the driving force behind the band's success, and has played a key role in the development of their sound and style. As the band's bassist and primary songwriter, he has written many of their most famous and enduring songs, including "The Trooper," "Hallowed Be Thy Name," and "Fear of the Dark."

    Steve Harris is considered a pioneer of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement, and is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential figures in the history of heavy metal music. In addition to his work as the bassist and primary songwriter for Iron Maiden, he has also been involved in several other musical projects over the years, including the production of several albums and the formation of a side project called British Lion.

    Harris is known for his distinctive and energetic bass playing style, which features fast and intricate runs and a powerful and driving rhythm. He is also known for his strong stage presence and charismatic personality, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest heavy metal bassists of all time.

    In addition to his musical contributions, Harris is also known for his strong work ethic and dedication to his craft. He is widely regarded as one of the most focused and dedicated musicians in the heavy metal genre, and has been praised for his unwavering commitment to the music he loves.

    Despite his success and impact on the heavy metal genre, Harris has remained a down-to-earth and approachable person. He is widely respected and admired by fans and fellow musicians alike, and is considered one of the most important figures in the history of heavy metal music.

    Timeline of Steve Harris's career until early 1990s:

  • Clive Burr - drums

    Clive Ronald Burr, known as Clive Burr, was an English drummer who achieved fame as a member of the legendary heavy metal band Iron Maiden. Born on 8 March 1957, in East Ham, London, Burr developed a passion for music at a young age. He began playing the drums early on and honed his skills with dedication and perseverance.

    more...

    In 1977, Burr joined the band Samson, where he showcased his talent behind the drum kit. His time with Samson allowed him to gain experience and recognition within the music industry. Two years later, in 1979, Burr received a life-changing opportunity when he was invited to join Iron Maiden as their new drummer.

    Burr's addition to Iron Maiden proved to be instrumental in the band's success. He contributed his unique drumming style to the band's first three albums, namely "Iron Maiden" (1980), "Killers" (1981), and the groundbreaking "The Number of the Beast" (1982). His exceptional skills, ability to play intricate patterns at high speeds, and powerful drumming helped shape the band's distinctive sound.

    However, Burr faced health issues that eventually led to his departure from Iron Maiden in 1982. Despite leaving the band, his legacy as a pioneering drummer in the heavy metal genre had already been established. He made a lasting impact on the music world, and his contributions to Iron Maiden's early catalog continue to be celebrated by fans and musicians alike.

    Following his departure from Iron Maiden, Burr remained active in the music industry. He played with several bands, including Stratus, Desperado, and Clive Burr's Escape. Although his health continued to pose challenges, Burr's passion for music never waned.

    Tragically, on 12 March 2013, Clive Burr passed away at the age of 56. His death was attributed to complications from multiple sclerosis, a condition he had battled for many years. Burr's untimely demise deeply saddened the music community, and tributes poured in from fans, fellow musicians, and admirers around the world.

    Clive Burr's remarkable drumming abilities and his influential contributions to Iron Maiden's early success left an indelible mark on the heavy metal genre. His legacy lives on through the music he created and the inspiration he provided to aspiring drummers. Despite the challenges he faced, Burr's dedication, talent, and passion for music continue to be celebrated, ensuring that his memory remains forever etched in the world of heavy metal history.

Track Listing of: IRON MAIDEN Maiden Japan

The Song/tracks on "IRON MAIDEN Maiden Japan" are

  • Running Free
  • Remember Tomorrow
  • Wrathchild
  • Killers
  • Innocent Exile

 

Front Cover Photo Of IRON MAIDEN - Maiden Japan Canadian Release 12" VINYL EP ALBUM

 

IRON MAIDEN - Maiden Japan Canadian Release 12" VINYL EP ALBUM front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

 Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. 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 ).

Photo Of The Back Cover IRON MAIDEN - Maiden Japan Canadian Release 12" VINYL EP ALBUM

 

IRON MAIDEN - Maiden Japan Canadian Release 12" VINYL EP ALBUM back cover

Close up of record's label IRON MAIDEN - Maiden Japan Canadian Release 12" VINYL EP ALBUM Side One

"Maiden Japan" Record Label Details: Capitol Harvest MLP 15000  © 1981 EMI Records Limited Copyright ℗ 1981 EMI Records Limited Sound Copyright

"Maiden Japan" Record Label Details: Capitol Harvest MLP 15000  © 1981 EMI Records Limited Copyright ℗ 1981 EMI Records Limited Sound Copyright
 

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