Retro Raunch Revisit

Easily hailed as one of the greatest live albums (if not all-time # 1) in metal history and certainly one of the band's best-ever live outputs. LAD was recorded during the band's extensive World Slavery Tour in support of their 5th album, Powerslave. In total, a whopping 189 shows were performed in 23 countries in a period of 331 days -- starting in Warsaw in Aug 1984 and ending in California (Irvine) in Jul 1985. LAD is a fantastic double vinyl release comprised of 2 shows (Long Beach,CA and London's Hammersmith Odeon) and the set list is a treasure chest of classic cuts perfectly performed in a searing sonic assault of mastered musicianship. The album artwork of lightning-struck mascot Eddie was another classic piece by the band's artist Derek Riggs, and the record's gatefold sleeve was a visual eye candy feast of photos showing Maiden's massive stage in the Egyptian theme, band member close-ups, lighting, and pyro fx which were further brilliantly on display in the superbly edited LAD video release. [The original LAD cd version only featured the first 13 songs due to length restrictions but on the 1998 & 2020 remastered reissues, the proper full lengths were restored. The original length was not restored on the 2008 dvd re-release and instead features a bonus disc containing part 2 of an ongoing documentary series covering the band's history, promo videos, various concert footgae, and a gallery of photos & art]. Some have criticized singer Bruce's singing as lagging on these shows but in defense he was fighting a cold at a number of these concerts (and still delivered like a god), fell ill resulting in some cancellations, and was so mentally exhausted from the tour's punishing schedule that he contemplated quitting Maiden at the tour's conclusion where any lesser singer most certainly would have. Though his creativity was affected, he thankfully recovered from burnout and the much needed rest also marked a significant change in the band's sound. LAD is a flawless highlight in the band's discography, and whose global fan praise alone makes the album an instant classic. To simply call it excellent doesn't do it enough justice -- it's essential. Happy 40th Anniversary.