What makes British Lion by British Lion notable?

The album marked a significant exploration for Harris as it introduced a more accessible sound while maintaining heavy metal roots. Although it did not achieve mainstream chart success, it garnered attention within the rock community and helped solidify Harris's reputation as a versatile musician beyond Iron Maiden. British Lion is the debut album of Steve Harris's side project, released in 2012 after several decades of success with Iron Maiden. This album allowed Harris to explore different musical influences outside the confines of his main band, presenting a more personal vision that diverged from Iron Maiden's established sound.

Who is British Lion for?

British Lion works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, long, immersive listening sessions and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on British Lion?

British Lion has 10 tracks, running approximately 52 minutes.

British Lion

British Lion · 2012

52 min · 10 tracks

A hard-hitting blend of classic rock and modern heavy metal, showcasing powerful riffs and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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This Is My God — Opening with aggressive guitar riffs and a driving rhythm, this track sets the tone for the album by blending personal introspection with a robust sound.
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Karma Killer — This song features intricate melodies paired with thought-provoking lyrics that reflect on themes of morality and consequence, showcasing Harris's songwriting depth.
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Us Against the World — With its anthemic chorus and uplifting message, this track captures a sense of unity and resilience, resonating well with fans of both classic and modern rock.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and production but doesn't stand out significantly in its genre.

What we noticed

The album opens with a strong mid-tempo track that sets a heavy tone, followed by a faster-paced song that introduces more intricate guitar work.
Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, which add depth to the sound.
The last three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, creating a reflective atmosphere that contrasts with the earlier intensity.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
long, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
contemplative moments of reflection

Where this album fits

Career context: British Lion is the debut album of Steve Harris's side project, released in 2012 after several decades of success with Iron Maiden. This album allowed Harris to explore different musical influences outside the confines of his main band, presenting a more personal vision that diverged from Iron Maiden's established sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Iron Maiden· Saxon· Def Leppard

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 This Is My God 4:57
2 Lost Worlds 4:59
3 Karma Killer 5:29
4 Us Against the World 4:12
5 The Chosen Ones 6:28
6 A World Without Heaven 7:02
7 Judas 4:59
8 Eyes of the Young 5:25
9 These Are the Hands 4:29
10 The Lesson 4:15

What to play next

Listen next

The Burning

2020

Full British Lion discography Artists like British Lion

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata