What makes Senjutsu by Iron Maiden notable?

'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. 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.

Senjutsu works well if you're into sprawling narratives that unfold gradually, epic soundscapes for focused listening and immersive journey into heavy themes.

How many songs are on Senjutsu?

Senjutsu has 10 tracks, running approximately 81 minutes.

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.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

sprawling narratives that unfold gradually
epic soundscapes for focused listening
immersive journey into heavy themes
cathartic climaxes in lengthy tracks

Maybe skip if you want

prefer short, standalone songs
seek immediate gratification

Where this album fits

Themes: mythological narratives· historical reflection
Career 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: Judas Priest· Helloween· Megadeth
Sounds like this from elsewhere: Painkiller by Judas Priest — Delivers epic narratives and intricate guitar work, embodying the same heavy metal grandeur.

Imaginations from the Other Side by Blind Guardian — Shares mythological storytelling and complex arrangements, drawing listeners into a fantastical realm.

Metropolis Pt. 2: Scenes from a Memory by Dream Theater — Combines thematic depth with progressive metal complexity, echoing grand narratives and melodic intricacies.