What makes The Evil That Men Do by Iron Maiden notable?

'The Evil That Men Do' reached number 12 on the UK Singles Chart and received significant airtime on radio stations, reinforcing Iron Maiden's dominance in heavy metal. The single also showcased the band's evolving sound by incorporating more progressive elements, which contributed to the critical acclaim of its parent album, 'Seventh Son of a Seventh Son', often regarded as one of their best works. Released on August 1, 1988, 'The Evil That Men Do' was Iron Maiden's first single from their seventh studio album, 'Seventh Son of a Seventh Son'. By this time, the band was at the peak of their popularity, having successfully transitioned from the New Wave of British Heavy Metal into a global heavy metal powerhouse. This period marked a high point for the band's artistic ambitions and commercial success.

How many songs are on The Evil That Men Do?

The Evil That Men Do has 3 tracks, running approximately 12 minutes.

The Evil That Men Do

Iron Maiden · 1988

12 min · 3 tracks · heavy metal

A powerful blend of galloping rhythms and soaring vocals that encapsulate the essence of late '80s heavy metal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Evil That Men Do — This title track embodies the thematic depth and musical complexity that Iron Maiden is known for, featuring intricate guitar solos and layered harmonies.
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Prowler '88 — Revisiting an earlier classic, this re-recorded version showcases the band's growth while maintaining the relentless energy and storytelling that characterize their work.
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Charlotte the Harlot '88 — This updated take on a fan favorite combines vivid narrative lyrics with dynamic instrumentation, illustrating Iron Maiden's ability to evolve while staying true to their roots.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

This single features strong songwriting and production but lacks the cohesive flow of a full album.

What we noticed

The title track features a driving rhythm with galloping bass lines and dual guitar harmonies that are characteristic of Iron Maiden's style.
The second track, 'Prowler '88', is a re-recording that retains the original's tempo but adds a sharper production quality.
The final track, 'Charlotte the Harlot '88', showcases complex song structures with multiple tempo changes and intricate guitar solos.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single helped solidify Iron Maiden's popularity in heavy metal during the late '80s.
Themes: historical violence· dark morality tales· London underworld
Career context: Released on August 1, 1988, 'The Evil That Men Do' was Iron Maiden's first single from their seventh studio album, 'Seventh Son of a Seventh Son'. By this time, the band was at the peak of their popularity, having successfully transitioned from the New Wave of British Heavy Metal into a global heavy metal powerhouse. This period marked a high point for the band's artistic ambitions and commercial success.
Stylistic neighbors: Judas Priest· Helloween· Megadeth