This 12" EP is the only Sanctuary song release with four tracks. The track Sanctuary first appeared on the USA release of Iron Maiden's self-titled debut album (which is NOT the case for the European releases of the self-titled album)
In the bleak winter of 1980, a fledgling Iron Maiden unleashed "Sanctuary," their first EP, a harbinger of the metal storm to come. This 12" vinyl, emblazoned with Derek Riggs' controversial Eddie artwork, marked their initial foray into the world of recorded music, a raw and unyielding declaration of their intent.
Historical Context and Musical Exploration
Fresh from the London club scene, Iron Maiden had already garnered a reputation for their energetic live shows and rebellious spirit. "Sanctuary" captured this raw energy, showcasing their early sound: a blend of punk attitude and heavy metal thunder. This EP was a musical exploration, a testing ground for their songwriting prowess and a glimpse into the sonic landscape they were about to conquer.
Musical Genre: The Birth of a Metal Legend
"Sanctuary" laid the groundwork for what would become known as the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. It showcased their signature elements: Steve Harris' galloping basslines, Dave Murray's fiery guitar solos, and Paul Di'Anno's raspy vocals. The title track, with its infectious chorus and rebellious lyrics, became an instant anthem for disaffected youth, cementing their place in the burgeoning metal scene.
Controversies: Eddie's Unleashed Fury
The original artwork, featuring Eddie brandishing a knife over the corpse of Margaret Thatcher, sparked a media frenzy. This controversy only fueled the band's notoriety, drawing attention to their music and solidifying their image as defiant outsiders.
Production Team and Recording Studio
"Sanctuary" was produced by Will Malone, a seasoned studio hand who had worked with artists like Black Sabbath and Nazareth. Recorded at Kingsway Studios in London, the EP captured the band's raw energy and unpolished sound, a testament to their early days as a hungry and ambitious group.
Track by Track Breakdown
Legacy: A Metal Milestone
"Sanctuary" may have been a short burst of vinyl fury, but its impact was undeniable. It marked the arrival of a new force in heavy metal, a band that would go on to conquer the world with their epic soundscapes and unwavering spirit. For those who witnessed its birth, "Sanctuary" remains a cherished artifact, a reminder of Iron Maiden's raw power and unyielding ambition, forever etched in vinyl and enshrined in the hearts of metalheads.
Collectors information: Side Two of this EP contains the songs: "Drifter" and "I've Got Fire". This EP is the first release album with these two live tracks.
"Drifter" and "I've Got The Fire" were recorded live at London's Marquee Club on 3 April 1980 with vocal support by the "Iron Army"
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| Collector's attributes: This section contains detailed information to be able to uniquely identify this particular version/release of the album IRON MAIDEN - Sanctuary (EP) | ||
| Album front cover: | The album front cover shows the British Prime-Minister Margaret Thatcher slaughtered by Eddie Top right corner:
4 Tracks Inc |
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| Album back cover |
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Top right corner: |
| Labels | Side One: |
Copyrights text in the rim of the label in both English and German |
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Side Two: |
Copyrights text in the rim of the label in both English and German |
| Matrix code / run-out grooves | Side One: |
K025Z-07390-A//46025-1Y C1 |
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Side Two:: | K052Z-07390-B//46026-1-Y C1 |
Music Genre: NWOBHM British Heavy Metal |
Album Production information: The album: "IRON MAIDEN - Sanctuary (EP)" was produced by: Will Malone: Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Will Malone Album cover Illustration: 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 .
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Record Label & Catalognr: EMI K 052Z-07390 |
Media Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 210 gram |
Year & Country: 16 May 1980 Netherlands |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: IRON MAIDEN - Sanctuary (EP) |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "IRON MAIDEN - Sanctuary (EP)" |
The detailed tracklist of this record "IRON MAIDEN - Sanctuary (EP)" is:
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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 ).
"Sanctuary EP" Record Label Details: Yellow Colour EMI K 0527-07390, Made in EEC
