Written and recorded back in 2019, then promptly locked in a vault and guarded by their monstrous mascot Eddie, Iron Maiden’s long rumoured 17th studio album now finally sees the light of day – and the labyrinthine 82 minute LP is an absolute feast for fans of the icons. Boasting a host of surprises (including power ballad ‘Darkest Hour’), some of tub thumper Nicko McBrain’s best performances to date (‘The Time Machine’) and plenty of that famous, Steve Harris driven gallop, Senjustsu is nothing short of stunning.

Over the course of ten tracks, the six-piece delve into their bottomless bag of tricks to deliver more devilishly good treats than an evening at Aleister Crowley’s house. The songs penned by Maiden head honcho Steve Harris especially impress and the mostly instrumental ‘The Parchment’ is a standout.

Built on a brace of bullish riffs, the band have never sounded so thrillingly bestial. ‘Death Of The Celts’ is another gem and is something of a sequel to fan favourite ‘The Clansman,’ while ‘Lost In A Lost World’ flirts with Jeff Wayne-esque story-telling and soundscapes.

Epic, explosive and, most importantly, exciting, Senjutsu once again affirms that Maiden are still the kings of metal. Long may they reign.

9/10

Out September 3