Senjutsu cover

Senjutsu

Iron Maiden · 2021

81 min · 10 tracks · heavy metal · traditional heavy metal · new wave of British heavy metal

A sprawling epic of heavy metal grandeur, blending intricate melodies with powerful, narrative-driven lyrics.

Why this album works

'Senjutsu' debuted at number three on the UK Albums Chart and received generally favorable reviews, highlighting its lyrical depth and musical ambition. The album's lead single, 'The Writing on the Wall', marked a notable return for the band, showcasing their ability to remain relevant in contemporary music discussions while also garnering significant attention for its animated music video.
Best for
sprawling narratives that unfold gradually epic soundscapes for focused listening immersive journey into heavy themes
Context
Released on September 3, 2021, 'Senjutsu' is Iron Maiden's 17th studio album and their first since 2015's 'The Book of Souls'. At this point in their career, the band had solidified their legacy as metal pioneers while continuing to explore new thematic depths and musical complexities. The album showcases their evolution while retaining the signature sound that defined them in the early days.
Stylistic neighbors
Tygers of Pan Tang· Angel Witch· Girlschool

Tracklist

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

Disc 1

  • 1 Senjutsu Standout 8:20
  • 2 Stratego 4:59
  • 3 The Writing on the Wall Standout 6:13
  • 4 Lost in a Lost World 9:31
  • 5 Days of Future Past 4:03
  • 6 The Time Machine 7:09

Disc 2

  • 1 Darkest Hour 7:20
  • 2 Death of the Celts Standout 10:20
  • 3 The Parchment 12:39
  • 4 Hell on Earth 11:19

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata