Killer Deal

Iron Maiden - Killers
Iron Maiden : Killers

Released February 2, 1981

Recorded: Battery Studios, London, November 1980 – January 1981

Label: EMI

Iron Maiden

Paul Di'Anno – lead vocals

Steve Harris – bass guitar, backing vocals

Adrian Smith – guitar, backing vocals

Dave Murray – guitar

Clive Burr – drums

Martin "Headmaster" Birch - Producer, Engineer

Nigel Hewitt - Second engineer

Derek Riggs - Illustration

Dave Lights - Cover Concept
Rod Smallwood – Management

Track Listing:  1981 US Release

Side one

No. Title Writer(s) Length

1. "The Ides of March"    Harris 1:46 Instrumental

2. "Wrathchild"  Harris 2:54

3. "Murders in the Rue Morgue" Harris 4:18

4. "Another Life"  Harris 3:22

5. “Ghengis Khan” Harris 3:06 Instrumental

6. “Innocent Exile” Harris 3:53

Side two

No. Title Writer(s) Length

1. "Killers" Harris, DiAnno 5:01

2. "Twilight Zone"    Harris, Murray 2:33 Not on original UK release.

3. "Prodigal Son"  Harris 6:11

4. "Purgatory"  Harris 3:20

5. "Drifter"  Harris 4:31

Iron Maiden’s sophomore effort came quickly leaving little time for rest following the release of their Debut.  Although I believe the production quality to be better than that of the predecessor I do not believe that the album is as memorable nor packs as much raw Iron Maiden vibe.  Most of the material was written and existed prior to the release of the debut album and the bulk was pretty much written in total by Steve Harris with assistance from Di’Anno on the title piece, and by Murray on one of the singles “Twilight Zone”.  Although I feel the lions share of this album is somewhat less than what I had been conditioned to expect from “Maiden” it is a great transition piece.  The Addition of Adrian Smith on guitars provides insight into the jolting dual axe attack that is coming…and coming soon.

The Ides of March 1:46 – Nothing special or notable regarding the opening instrumental.  A cool rolling drum segment, that transitions into a rolling cadence that drops into some nice solo work. 2/5

Wrathchild 2:54 – The definitive piece on this album and a signature piece to this day.   Trademark-able sounds, a hammering bass line supported by a driving drums and some dueling guitars.  The lyrics are beautifully raucous and suitable to the title.  Overall a great Maiden showing. 4/5

Murders in the Rue Morgue 4:18 – Murders starts off with so much promise and drops it at the bridge and chorus.  The lyrical presentation is repetitive and campy to me and not a suitable match to the otherwise excellent instrumental accompaniment. 2.5/5

Another Life 3:22 – Opening with a rousing rhythm and very tight weave of guitars knitted together with perfect timing.  The vocals on this one do not disappoint and this track has an energy that the remainder of the album lacks. 3/5

Ghengis Khan 3:06 – A peek into the future of epic, historical pieces to come.  Although not epic in length, this track feels epic in stature and sound.  The riff itself is commanding and transfers to me the feel of being pursued by a horde when it breaks into more of the speed metal feel supported by the branded IM gallop.   “Charge!”  Musically, this arrangement is extremely accomplished.  3/5

Innocent Exile 3:53 – A rowdy run at some metalcraft.  Intense solos over the top of solid riffage all building to an appropriate crescendo but an abrupt abandonment of the track leaves one wanting for more. 2/5

Killers 5:01 – The intro for the title track steps in where Innocent Exile left off and teases the listener almost leaving one with little choice but to stay hungry for some vintage maiden.  The earliest vestiges of some speed or thrash metal can also be heard as undertones.  The dueling guitars never disappoint and have some complimentary conversation during the solo portion.  Supported by some appropriately haunting vocals presented appropriately provide for a perfect recipe for some main dish Maiden.  Serve it up.  3.5/5

Twilight Zone 2:33 – Di’anno's stand out performance on this album IMHO.  While being very melodic and opened with an almost anthemic sounding riff, I just struggle because I don’t like this track as much as I think I should and want to.  In the end I always end up shuffling past it. 2/5

Prodigal Son 6:11 – Don’t know where to begin with this one.  Is it even Maiden or did they kidnap the band and replace a solid hard rocking maiden staple with this bluesy pop presentation.  Although there are some interesting moments, to me it just doesn’t fit and drives me to my knees …. “help me please.” Prodigal Son is one of my least favorite Maiden efforts of all time. 1/5

Purgatory 3:20 – OK we found the band and they are back on track with Purgatory.  Opening with a hard pounding entry riff, stiff vocals, appropriate pulsing gallop and enough metal to make any metal head dizzy with pride.  Hey I forgot what was the deal with that last song?  Although a little repetitive at times with requests for rescue, I will let it pass as we are back on the right track.  3/5

Drifter 4:31 – Full on Maiden attack, “don’t leave em wanting.”  Appropriate screaming entry, signature gallop and perfectly intertwined string and skin work.  The time change at the bridge hooks me every time and sets me up perfectly for the coming speed run.  Excellent, well timed and punctuated stops keep pulling the listener back to center.  Great closer. 3.5/5