Killers cover

Killers

Iron Maiden · 1981

41 min · 11 tracks · heavy metal · traditional heavy metal · new wave of British heavy metal

Raging riffs and galloping rhythms collide with narrative-driven lyrics, embodying the essence of early heavy metal.

Why this album works

Best for
dynamic progression with climactic peaks short bursts of adrenaline narrative-driven lyrical explorations
Context
Released on February 2, 1981, 'Killers' is Iron Maiden's second studio album, following their self-titled debut. At this point, the band was solidifying their identity within the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement, marking a transition from their earlier sound while introducing a more aggressive style that would define their future work.
If you like
heavy metal, traditional heavy metal, new wave of British heavy metal

Killers is an album by Iron Maiden, released in 1981. Raging riffs and galloping rhythms collide with narrative-driven lyrics, embodying the essence of early heavy metal. 'Killers' not only helped cement Iron Maiden's reputation in heavy metal but also reached number 33 on the UK Albums Chart. Its raw energy and lyrical storytelling influenced countless bands in the genre, contributing to the rise of NWOBHM and setting a template for future metal acts. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Killers sound like?

Raging riffs and galloping rhythms collide with narrative-driven lyrics, embodying the essence of early heavy metal. Rooted in heavy metal and traditional heavy metal.

What makes Killers by Iron Maiden notable?

'Killers' not only helped cement Iron Maiden's reputation in heavy metal but also reached number 33 on the UK Albums Chart. Its raw energy and lyrical storytelling influenced countless bands in the genre, contributing to the rise of NWOBHM and setting a template for future metal acts. Released on February 2, 1981, 'Killers' is Iron Maiden's second studio album, following their self-titled debut. At this point, the band was solidifying their identity within the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement, marking a transition from their earlier sound while introducing a more aggressive style that would define their future work.

Who is Killers for?

Killers works well if you're into dynamic progression with climactic peaks, short bursts of adrenaline and narrative-driven lyrical explorations.

How many songs are on Killers?

Killers has 11 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Tracklist

11 tracks·41:20

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

  • 1 The Ides of March 1:45
  • 2 Wrathchild Standout 2:54
  • 3 Murders in the Rue Morgue Standout 4:19
  • 4 Another Life 3:22
  • 5 Genghis Khan 3:06
  • 6 Innocent Exile 3:53
  • 7 Killers Standout 5:01
  • 8 Twilight Zone 2:34
  • 9 Prodigal Son 6:11
  • 10 Purgatory 3:21
  • 11 Drifter 4:48

Release Date

February 2, 1981

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

41 min 20 sec