Product Reviews
Over the course of two CDs, The Best of the Beast hits all of Iron Maiden's biggest hits, from "Run to the Hills" and "Wasted Years" to "Two Minutes to Midnight," "Aces High" and a live version of "Rime of the Ancient Mariner." In addition to the classic Maiden cuts, there are several rare tracks, including two unreleased songs from the Soundhouse Tapes, the unreleased "Strange World" and a new single called "Virus." The Best of the Beast works because Iron Maiden was always at its best on individual songs, despite their series of concept albums. This compilation gathers nearly all of their finest moments, providing an excellent introduction to one of the most popular and influential heavy metal bands of the early '80s. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, Rovi
Product Notes
Import pressing of their 1996 compilation that's out-of-print domestically. At nearly 78 minutes in length, the disc contains many of the group's expected headbanging highlights. The package skips over Paul Di'Anno-era material, favoring songs culled from the Bruce Dickinson-led lineup. Favorites like 'The Number of the Beast,' 'Aces High,' 'Be Quick or Be Dead,' 'Wasted Years,' 'The Trooper,' 'Run to the Hills,' & 'Hallowed Be Thy Name' are all featured. The collection also includes are a pair of tracks that feature Dickinson's short-lived replacement, 'Blaze' Bayley, 'Man on the Edge' & 'Virus.' EMI. 2005.