Review Summary: ...When you think that we've used all our chances, and the chance to make everything right, keep on making the same old mistakes, makes untipping the balance so easy...
Iron Maiden is, by far and wide, my favorite heavy metal band. Ah, but back in mid 90's, I was young and unaware of their music presence. First time I've heard them was Maiden England, and needless to say, it was a love at first sight. Virtual XI was my first new Iron Maiden album as a fan, and due to the fact that, at that age, we're all pretty much excited about everything, we were fascinated by it. The tracks were catchier and lighter than those of X Factor. However, we matured and came to realize that it's far from a masterpiece (although it's solid). Some things were missing, and we felt that Bruce Dickinson is one of them. Then, it was announced he's back, so we waited impatiently for their comeback album. Hell, the whole world did. Especially since Bruce wasn't the only one that rejoined. There was also that Smith guy, the one that brought us so many mind-blowing guitar solos and a number of iconic songs. Plus, they kind of grow fond of Janick, so they asked him to stay nevertheless. Thus, for the first time we were waiting for three-guitar line-up Maiden release.
However, let's not kid ourselves here. We knew it wasn't gonna be as good as their 80's classics. Just like Metallica's never gonna repeat "Black" album, or Queensryche's never gonna do another "Operation Mindcrime". Except, they did, and it wasn't any good, but you get the point. It wasn't about making another "Powerslave", but rather, about making history with another masterpiece, another release that separates them from the rest of heavy metal troops. They couldn't turn back the time, and obviously couldn't stay away from prog metal, but they certainly could improve over Blaze era and prove once again how good they were.
"The Wicker Man" is speedy, strong and polished opener, and goes to show the energy this album brings. The chorus is the catchiest on the album, and Bruce is as Air-Siren as ever. It's a fine addition to the collection of their magnificent openers. "Ghost of The Navigator", shines both melodically and lyrically, even though it's a little longer than it needs to be. I'm well-aware that it's not fan favorite, but I really fail to realize why. The title track is simply a great effort in songwriting, with couple of mood changes and vivid lyrics. Plus, those tender singing suits Bruce perfectly. Singing is tender, but lines are as dark as they get, yet the atmosphere is nowhere near the darkness of X Factor because, simply put, the instruments sound livelier. If there's a song that sound like old-style Maiden, it's "Blood Brothers". It's actually written for late Harris' father, and it shows, because it's an emotional brilliance. There's some utter beauty in a way Bruce sings :
"When you think that we've used all our chances
And the chance to make everything right
Keep on making the same old mistakes
Makes untipping the balance so easy
When we're living our lives on the edge
Say a prayer on the book of the dead"
Middle section is where BNW falters. "The Mercenary" is passable at best, with too many "Nowhere to run, nowhere to hide" and "Show them no fear, show them no pain" repetitions. Also, guitar solo is needlessly fast at the beginning. "Dream of Mirrors" is simply too long for its own good. Acoustic intro is boring, overstays its welcome, although the riff itself is actually pretty good. The middle part is repetitive, the chorus is aggressive and too fast. Last couple of minutes are great, but due to the dullness before, they're not worth waiting for. The song was actually written with Blaze in mind, and it shows, 'cause it's got Virtual XI written all over it. "The Fallen Angel" is easily the worst song here, as it can be described as four minutes of searching for a right tune, and never really finding one. Unmemorable solo doesn't help either.
Once again, the band saved best for last, as the last third of the album is arguably the best. First of Murray-Harris collaborations, "Nomad", is grand epic, best electric song by Iron Maiden in years (their best of 2000's), with one of the very best solo parts in heavy metal history. Its central section is a highlight, a symphony, one you wish would never end. The sound itself here is simply unforgettable, as every guitar tone is a display of greatness. Nicko goes under the radar here, but if you pay any amount of attention, it's very noticeable he's doing a hell of a job. Next is "Out of the Silent Planet", a single, the track with as catchy opening as they get, and unforgettable chorus. It's actually the lightest track of the album, one with the special kind of energy it brings to the table. It's so relaxing that most of us don't even notice the amount of repetitions of the title line. Finally, we have one of the most complex Iron Maiden songs, but it comes to no surprise, since its title/subject is one the most defined in human history, that being "The Thin Line Between Love and Hate". It is actually a mixture of a couple of minor songs, a triumph of structure, and a closure worth of their classic albums. Once again, it shows how Nicko's drumming can, for better or worse, affect their songs. Here, he does it with surgical precision. Near the end, there's a moment when one might think the song is going to end there, but they, thankfully, prolong it for a couple of great minutes.
Indeed, for the most part, Brave New World delivered. It was musically and lyrically the best album since Seventh Son, the one that hasn't been topped ever since. If they hadn't set the bar so high, it would be considered to be one of the best ever of all the heavy metal, especially of the 2000's. Soundwise, BNW is miles ahead of the previous two releases. The production is great, the sound is pure, yet powerful. The songs are longer than in the 80's, and that trend is present even in nowadays, but here it's mainly justified.
High Point: Both Murray-Harris cooperations here stand out, still "Nomad" is song for ages and for pure heavy metal lovers.
Interesting Point: "Blood Brothers". Plain and simple.
Low Point: "The Fallen Angel" is unworthy of this album.
