Best of the Beast
Iron Maiden · 1996
78 min · 16 tracks · heavy metal · traditional heavy metal · new wave of British heavy metal
A potent compilation of heavy metal anthems that encapsulates Iron Maiden's dynamic sound and lyrical storytelling.
Why this album works
- Best for
- dynamic mix of energy levels epic sing-along moments cathartic full-volume release
- Context
- By the time 'Best of the Beast' was released in 1996, Iron Maiden had established themselves as pioneers of heavy metal since their formation in 1975. This compilation arrived after a decade of fluctuating commercial success and lineup changes, marking a moment for fans to revisit the band's influential tracks while showcasing their enduring legacy.
- If you like
- heavy metal, traditional heavy metal, new wave of British heavy metal
Best of the Beast is an album by Iron Maiden, released in 1996. A potent compilation of heavy metal anthems that encapsulates Iron Maiden's dynamic sound and lyrical storytelling. This album is significant as it consolidated Iron Maiden's most impactful songs from their first decade, offering a comprehensive look at their career up to that point. It achieved commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart and solidifying the band's status in the heavy metal genre during a time when their popularity was being challenged by new musical trends. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Best of the Beast sound like?
A potent compilation of heavy metal anthems that encapsulates Iron Maiden's dynamic sound and lyrical storytelling. Rooted in heavy metal and traditional heavy metal.
What makes Best of the Beast by Iron Maiden notable?
This album is significant as it consolidated Iron Maiden's most impactful songs from their first decade, offering a comprehensive look at their career up to that point. It achieved commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart and solidifying the band's status in the heavy metal genre during a time when their popularity was being challenged by new musical trends. By the time 'Best of the Beast' was released in 1996, Iron Maiden had established themselves as pioneers of heavy metal since their formation in 1975. This compilation arrived after a decade of fluctuating commercial success and lineup changes, marking a moment for fans to revisit the band's influential tracks while showcasing their enduring legacy.
Who is Best of the Beast for?
Best of the Beast works well if you're into dynamic mix of energy levels, epic sing-along moments and cathartic full-volume release.
How many songs are on Best of the Beast?
Best of the Beast has 16 tracks, running approximately 78 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Number of the Beast Standout 4:53
- 2 Can I Play With Madness 3:33
- 3 Fear of the Dark (live) 7:23
- 4 Run to the Hills Standout 3:54
- 5 Bring Your Daughter… to the Slaughter 4:44
- 6 The Evil That Men Do 4:34
- 7 Aces High 4:30
- 8 Be Quick or Be Dead 3:23
- 9 2 Minutes to Midnight 6:04
- 10 Man on the Edge 4:13
- 11 Virus 6:14
- 12 Running Free (live) 3:28
- 13 Wasted Years 5:08
- 14 The Clairvoyant 4:27
- 15 The Trooper 4:14
- 16 Hallowed Be Thy Name Standout 7:12
Release Date
September 24, 1996
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
78 min 1 sec
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