Let's face it, most tribute albums aren't a patch on the originals if you are lucky, or are complete rubbish if you aren't. This is neither. It is certainly one of the best tribute albums I have ever encountered.
Bruce Kullick roped in a truly "All-Star" cast to record 11 Maiden tracks. Far from being the usual ones there are tracks for all versions of the band, including the latest three guitar version represented by 'Whicker Man', which combines members of Armoured Saint & Anthrax with Murderdolls. John Bush an admirable job handling the vocals, as do most of the vocalists on here.
There are two truisms that will affect this album. No bassist will be able to play like Steve Harris (his self-taught style is unique to say the least) and any vocalist is going to have a hard time keeping up with Dickinson's vocal ability. Even Chris Jericho manages to avail himself to the lead vocals on 'The Evil that men Do' without making a fool of himself.
The most interesting pairing on here is Lemmy covering the classic 'The Trooper' and truly making it his own. While this is by no means a necessary purchase, if you are a Maiden fan it is rather interesting to see how the best in metal handle 11 of Eddie's best.
Oh yeah, and to add to the cred ... Derek Riggs does the cover.
Rating: 4/5
ed/Pub:NB
Article comments
1 - Saqib
This review is insufficient. i hardly saw a shorter one. ALthough I agree to most of the points made here. Esp the Steve Harris bit. And it couldnt be clearer after listening to this album that Bruce is the best Metal vocal of current and possibly all time. Lemmy sounds soooo unique? it only means he couldnt hit the high notes like Bruce. As simple as tht.
2 - Marty Dodge
The reason Lemmy does so well is because he has put his mark on the song rather than trying to "do a Bruce" as several other of the vocalists tried on this album. The fact that Lemmy is British and a military afficianado makes his choice even more apt.