- British Release with Lyrics Sleeve
Powerslave is the 1984 studio album by the British Heavy Metal band "Iron Maiden". Powerslave is notable as the band's first album to feature the same personnel as their previous studio release. This web-page has hi-res photos of the album covers, record label and a detailed description.
In the scorching sands of 1984, amidst the rising tide of heavy metal, Iron Maiden unleashed their fifth studio album, "Powerslave." A monumental slab of vinyl, adorned with Derek Riggs' iconic Eddie-as-pharaoh artwork, it transported listeners to a realm of ancient empires and sonic warfare.
Historical Context and Musical Exploration
Following the success of "Piece of Mind," Maiden set out to expand their musical horizons, diving into themes of historical power and the inevitability of human mortality. "Powerslave" was a conceptual journey, weaving tales of pharaohs, warriors, and the relentless march of time, all set against a backdrop of galloping riffs and soaring vocals.
Musical Genre: The Pinnacle of British Heavy Metal
This album solidified Iron Maiden's position as pioneers of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. It showcased their signature sound: intricate dual guitar harmonies, thunderous basslines, and Bruce Dickinson's operatic vocals. Tracks like "Aces High" and "2 Minutes to Midnight" became anthems of the genre, their energetic melodies and driving rhythms resonating with metalheads worldwide.
Production Team and Recording Studio
The album was produced by Martin Birch, a seasoned veteran known for his work with Deep Purple and Black Sabbath. Recorded at Compass Point Studios in Nassau, Bahamas, the tropical setting provided a unique backdrop for the album's epic soundscapes. The band embraced the studio's relaxed atmosphere, experimenting with new techniques and pushing their creative boundaries.
Controversies: None to Speak Of
Unlike some of their earlier work, "Powerslave" did not stir up any major controversies. Its themes, while exploring the darker side of human history, were largely focused on storytelling and mythologizing, avoiding any overtly political or social commentary.
Track by Track Breakdown
Aces High: A high-octane opener, chronicling a World War II dogfight with Dickinson's vocals soaring above the fray.
2 Minutes to Midnight: An apocalyptic warning of impending doom, driven by a relentless rhythm section and Harris' iconic bass intro.
Losfer Words (Big 'Orra): A raucous instrumental showcasing the band's technical prowess.
Flash of the Blade: A tale of swordsmanship and honor, featuring a dynamic interplay between guitars and drums.
The Duellists: A dramatic ballad evoking the tension of a duel, with Dickinson's vocals painting a vivid picture of the scene.
Back in the Village: A return to the desert setting, with a driving riff and lyrics inspired by the TV show "The Prisoner."
Powerslave: The title track, a sprawling epic that explores the life and death of an Egyptian pharaoh.
Rime of the Ancient Mariner: A 13-minute masterpiece, based on Samuel Taylor Coleridge's poem, showcasing the band's ability to blend complex arrangements with lyrical storytelling.
Collector's info:
Matrix/Stamper codes: EJ 2402001T 3-5C-1-1 / EJ 2402001 TA-5C-1-1
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Music Genre: Heavy Metal, NWOBHM (New Wave of British Heavy Metal) Music |
Album Producer: Produced by Martin "Farmer" 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 |
Record Label & Catalognr: EJ 2402001 |
Album Packaging: This album includes the original light cardboard custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by "IRON MAIDEN and a band photo. |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record |
Year & Country: 3 Sep 1984 Made in England |
Band Members and Musicians on: IRON MAIDEN Powerslave |
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Complete Track Listing of: IRON MAIDEN Powerslave |
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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 ).
Full page photo of the "Iron Maiden" band on the original custom inner sleeve