What does Somewhere in Time sound like?

Futuristic synths intertwine with heavy guitar riffs, creating an atmospheric journey through time and introspection. Rooted in heavy metal and traditional heavy metal. Start with "Caught Somewhere in Time".

Is Somewhere in Time a good place to start with Iron Maiden?

Yes, Somewhere in Time is recommended as a starting point for new Iron Maiden listeners. Futuristic synths intertwine with heavy guitar riffs, creating an atmospheric journey through time and introspection. Released on September 29, 1986, Somewhere in Time is Iron Maiden's sixth studio album and marks their first foray into incorporating synthesizers alongside traditional heavy metal. Following the commercial success of Powerslave, this album reflects the band's desire to push creative boundaries while maintaining their signature sound during a peak period of popularity.

Who is Somewhere in Time for?

Somewhere in Time works well if you're into wave-like pacing with peaks, sci-fi themes for escapism and reflective moments of solitude.

How many songs are on Somewhere in Time?

Somewhere in Time has 8 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Somewhere in Time

Iron Maiden · 1986

51 min · 8 tracks · heavy metal

Futuristic synths intertwine with heavy guitar riffs, creating an atmospheric journey through time and introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Wasted Years — This track stands out for its introspective lyrics and catchy melody, reflecting themes of nostalgia and regret while showcasing Maiden's ability to weave emotional depth into powerful music.
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Caught Somewhere in Time Start here — The title track encapsulates the album's thematic essence, blending intricate guitar work with sci-fi motifs, establishing a unique atmosphere that defines the record.
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Alexander the Great — This closing epic demonstrates the band's storytelling prowess, chronicling historical events with dynamic instrumentation and a compelling narrative arc that leaves a lasting impression.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

71 /100

Alpine

Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

The album's innovative blend of synths and metal creates a unique sound, though some tracks feel less cohesive.

What we noticed

Several tracks feature extended instrumental sections, allowing for atmospheric build-ups before returning to vocal lines.
The closing track, 'Alexander the Great', is notably longer than the others, incorporating multiple thematic shifts and a grand finale.

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: 8/10
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

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

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek short, standalone songs

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Introduced synthesizers, marking a shift in Iron Maiden's sound and approach.
Themes: sci-fi nostalgia· time travel reflections
Career context: Released on September 29, 1986, Somewhere in Time is Iron Maiden's sixth studio album and marks their first foray into incorporating synthesizers alongside traditional heavy metal. Following the commercial success of Powerslave, this album reflects the band's desire to push creative boundaries while maintaining their signature sound during a peak period of popularity.
Stylistic neighbors: Judas Priest· Helloween· Megadeth