THE BOOK OF SOULS

It has become apparent on the last two Maiden offerings that the band is at the very least, trying to find some new tricks to spruce up its bombastic prog-metal approach. On this double disc, there is a respectful display of bluesier guitar solos and other musical interludes and motifs which certainly help keep things fresh. The continuing problem since 2006's 'matter of life and death' however, seems to be the lack of self-editing in the music itself. On classic albums like 'Powerslave', and 'Seventh Son', short, punchy numbers would dominate proceedings, making the listener appreciate the 2 or 3 epics on display. This balance was lost somewhat with a 'back to basics' approach in the early 90s. Fortunately, the approach was found again on 'Dance of Death' (Not coincidentally the group's finest album since 'Seventh Son'). While there is much to recommend on this double album, particularly Bruce's triumphant vocals, it appears that the band has al but lost it's ability to craft trailblazing 3-4 minute anthems in the 'Piece of Mind' tradition and is now in somewhat of a rut of excess despite it's commendable efforts to deviate from the formula.

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