Somewhere in Time cover

Released 40 years ago

Somewhere in Time

Iron Maiden · 1986

51 min · 8 tracks · heavy metal · traditional heavy metal · new wave of British heavy metal

A sci-fi infused blend of heavy riffs and melodic harmonies, echoing the band's progressive aspirations.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing with peaks
  • sci-fi themes for escapism
  • reflective moments of solitude
  • dynamic progression throughout album

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek short, standalone songs

Where this album fits

Themes
sci-fi nostalgia· time travel reflections
Career context
Released on September 29, 1986, 'Somewhere in Time' was Iron Maiden's sixth studio album, following the critically acclaimed 'Powerslave.' At this point, the band was at the height of their popularity, having solidified their status as heavy metal icons. The album showcased a more experimental approach with synthesizers and a concept-driven narrative, reflecting their evolution from earlier works.
Stylistic neighbors
Judas Priest· Helloween· Megadeth
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Operation: Mindcrime by Queensrÿche — Shares a narrative-driven concept and blends heavy riffs with melodic, progressive elements.
Awaken the Guardian by Fates Warning — Combines intricate guitar work and progressive structures with a similar sci-fi thematic exploration.
Images and Words by Dream Theater — Features complex compositions and melodic harmonies, echoing the progressive aspirations found on 'Somewhere in Time.'

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Caught Somewhere in Time 7:25
  • 2 Wasted Years 5:07
  • 3 Sea of Madness 5:41
  • 4 Heaven Can Wait 7:21
  • 5 The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner 6:31
  • 6 Stranger in a Strange Land 5:44
  • 7 Deja-Vu 4:56
  • 8 Alexander the Great 8:35

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata