IRON MAIDEN / Somewhere in Time (1986)

The Iron Maiden sound has remained traditionally galloping from day one, but it was shaken up quite dramatically on Somewhere in Time with the addition of synth guitar; it's surprisingly good, so don't knock it until you've heard it. It was mostly due to Adrian Smith, who composed the riffs for some of its strongest songs. Adrian had always been dependable but hadn't contributed his own vision before.
The second half of the album is less interesting. It's Maiden by numbers, and if not for Stranger in a Strange Land being placed there it'd be largely forgettable.
The full album cover (HERE) by long-time artist Derek Riggs is densely packed with Maiden lore and classic sci-fi references and is perfect for desktop wallpaper.

Songs of Note: Caught Somewhere in Time; Stranger in a Strange Land

3½ golden years out of 5