Well here it is, one of the best known and influential 'Metal' albums of all time, that still sounds terrific twenty years on. 'Bruce Dickinson's' first album with 'Maiden' and with it, sets his name in stone, as one of the best 'Metal' vocalists ever. Caused quite a stir upon its release as the visage of mascot 'Eddie' combined with the song 'The Number of the Beast' gave the band a reputation of having 'satanic' influences ('Ya Right, What Ever'). Developing the NWOBHM style of their earlier albums and utilising their new powerhouse vocalist, they manage to cut some of their best and most enduring tracks.

The swift paced rocker 'Invaders' kicks us off, fuelled by a rapid grooving rhythm, is a tasty neck wrencher. Featured is the line 'The Saxon's have been overpowered victims of the mighty Norsemen', I wonder if this an indirect reference to fellow NWOBHM group 'Saxon'?. 'Children of the Damned' is a slower number, probably the weakest track present, but still features some nice touches, but overall a little repetitive and less spirited than others. 'The Prisoner' is a real treat, it opens up with a segment from the UK TV show of the same name, really atmospheric and sets the track up nicely, featured is plenty of top galloping guitar work and excellently written and sung lyrics. '22 Acacia Avenue' is a follow-up to 'Charlotte the Harlot' and continues the story of the 'lady of the night's' activities, a sweet chugging riff offers the backbone of this plodder, combined with some excellent vocal work on difficult snaking lyrics. A doom laden spoken intro courtesy of 'Vincent Price' sets 'The Number of the Beast' up splendidly, the trademark 'Maiden' 'gallop' is prevalent throughout and mesmerising guitars and power vocals, make this a truly memorable 'Metal Classic'. Ensuing is another masterpiece 'Run to the Hills', a brilliant sing-a-long burn-out, highlighting axe men 'Adrian Smith' and 'Dave Murray' really excelling on the mid solo, and new-boy 'Bruce Dickinson' throws out the lyrics with measured abandon. 'Gangland' although overshadowed by the dazzling epics, is still a strong number with a more aggressive approach and reminiscent of earlier NWOBHM stalwarts. Its a tough choice for pick of the album as there's so many crackers, but I opt for 'Hallowed be thy Name', Its sung with such emotion, its so hard to ignore. The intro is a haunting masterpiece with a tolling bell and gothic plod, that develops into a exquisite chugger with intense lyrics- glorious.

The first of a great period for 'Maiden' as they cut great album upon album, after this release and go on to gain a legendary status. No fan of 'Metal' should have an excuse for not owning a copy of this timeless classic.