Is Senjutsu a good place to start with Iron Maiden?

Yes, Senjutsu is recommended as a starting point for new Iron Maiden listeners. Epic storytelling unfolds over intricate melodies and thunderous riffs, capturing the essence of classic heavy metal. Released on September 3, 2021, 'Senjutsu' is Iron Maiden's seventeenth studio album and follows their 2015 release 'The Book of Souls'. At this point in their career, the band had solidified their status as titans of heavy metal, continuing to innovate while maintaining their signature sound. This album also marks the return of long-time producer Kevin Shirley, highlighting a commitment to their established musical identity.

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

Epic storytelling unfolds over intricate melodies and thunderous riffs, capturing the essence of classic heavy metal.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Senjutsu Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
→
The Writing on the Wall — This track stands out with its captivating narrative and striking music video that blends animation with social commentary, marking a significant artistic statement for the band.
→
Stratego — A dynamic blend of catchy hooks and powerful instrumentation, 'Stratego' encapsulates classic Iron Maiden energy while exploring themes of conflict and strategy.
→
Hell on Earth — Closing with an epic length, this track showcases complex arrangements and profound lyrics that delve into existential themes, representing the album's overall ambition.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

68 /100

Alpine

Higher than 93% of albums we've rated

Ambitious compositions and intricate melodies showcase Iron Maiden's classic sound while maintaining a modern edge.

What we noticed

The album features several tracks that exceed six minutes, allowing for extended instrumental passages and complex arrangements.
Each song incorporates multiple tempo changes, creating dynamic shifts that enhance the storytelling aspect of the lyrics.
The first track sets a grand tone with orchestral elements before transitioning into heavy guitar riffs, establishing a thematic consistency throughout.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

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

Maybe skip if you

prefer short, standalone songs
seek immediate gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Shows Iron Maiden's continued creativity and popularity in their later years.
Themes: mythological narratives· historical reflection
Career context: Released on September 3, 2021, 'Senjutsu' is Iron Maiden's seventeenth studio album and follows their 2015 release 'The Book of Souls'. At this point in their career, the band had solidified their status as titans of heavy metal, continuing to innovate while maintaining their signature sound. This album also marks the return of long-time producer Kevin Shirley, highlighting a commitment to their established musical identity.
Stylistic neighbors: Judas Priest· Helloween· Megadeth