A Matter of Life and Death
Iron Maiden · 2006
72 min · 10 tracks · heavy metal · traditional heavy metal · new wave of British heavy metal
Epic heavy metal anthems blend intricate melodies with socially conscious lyrics and classic Iron Maiden storytelling.
Why this album works
- Best for
- gradual build to epic climax socially conscious lyrical themes immersive storytelling through music
- Context
- Released on August 28, 2006, 'A Matter of Life and Death' marked Iron Maiden's fourteenth studio album and followed their successful 2003 album 'Dance of Death.' The band was enjoying a resurgence in popularity after reuniting with lead singer Bruce Dickinson and guitarist Adrian Smith, which reinvigorated their sound and audience. This album continued their exploration of complex themes and showcased their signature dual guitar harmonies.
- If you like
- heavy metal, traditional heavy metal, new wave of British heavy metal
A Matter of Life and Death is an album by Iron Maiden, released in 2006. Epic heavy metal anthems blend intricate melodies with socially conscious lyrics and classic Iron Maiden storytelling. The album reached number 9 on the Billboard 200 chart, solidifying Iron Maiden's status in the heavy metal scene. Critics praised its ambitious lyrical content, often exploring war and philosophy, which resonated with long-time fans and new listeners alike. It is also notable for being one of the band's first albums to receive a simultaneous worldwide release, reflecting changes in music distribution. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does A Matter of Life and Death sound like?
Epic heavy metal anthems blend intricate melodies with socially conscious lyrics and classic Iron Maiden storytelling. Rooted in heavy metal and traditional heavy metal.
What makes A Matter of Life and Death by Iron Maiden notable?
The album reached number 9 on the Billboard 200 chart, solidifying Iron Maiden's status in the heavy metal scene. Critics praised its ambitious lyrical content, often exploring war and philosophy, which resonated with long-time fans and new listeners alike. It is also notable for being one of the band's first albums to receive a simultaneous worldwide release, reflecting changes in music distribution. Released on August 28, 2006, 'A Matter of Life and Death' marked Iron Maiden's fourteenth studio album and followed their successful 2003 album 'Dance of Death.' The band was enjoying a resurgence in popularity after reuniting with lead singer Bruce Dickinson and guitarist Adrian Smith, which reinvigorated their sound and audience. This album continued their exploration of complex themes and showcased their signature dual guitar harmonies.
Who is A Matter of Life and Death for?
A Matter of Life and Death works well if you're into gradual build to epic climax, socially conscious lyrical themes and immersive storytelling through music.
How many songs are on A Matter of Life and Death?
A Matter of Life and Death has 10 tracks, running approximately 72 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Different World 4:18
- 2 These Colours Don’t Run Standout 6:52
- 3 Brighter Than a Thousand Suns Standout 8:46
- 4 The Pilgrim 5:07
- 5 The Longest Day 7:47
- 6 Out of the Shadows 5:36
- 7 The Reincarnation of Benjamin Breeg 7:22
- 8 For the Greater Good of God Standout 9:24
- 9 Lord of Light 7:24
- 10 The Legacy 9:22
Release Date
August 28, 2006
Genre
heavy metal, new wave of British heavy metal, traditional heavy metal
More albums in new wave of British heavy metal
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Runtime
72 min 4 sec
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