Year: 2020
Total Time: 100:46 
Label: Parlophone

The engine of an aircraft, a legendary Spitfire takes over. Its roar is overshadowed by that of the crowd which understands that its anticipation is over. Sir Winston Churchill’s voice is heard through the speakers, the introduction of “Aces High” begins and the Beast is on stage thus beginning another concert for its formidable “The Legacy Of The Beast Tour” and at the same time another live release.

Of course, this is not the first time that IRON MAIDEN has released material from their live recordings. The story begins with “Live After Death” of 1985, which to this day is considered one of the best live albums of all time. But with such a history in live releases, was there a need to add another one? If we look at what “The Legacy Of The Beast Tour” is, we might conclude that yes, it was needed. This is a huge (the biggest for IRON MAIDEN) production in every way. Scenes, effects, direction and surprises during the concert. Those of us who were lucky enough to be present in Malakasa in the summer of 2018, will certainly never forget our experience. In terms of songs, it is a Best of setlist with many classic songs from the entire range of the IRON MAIDEN discography. At the same time, it is a very good souvenir for those who experienced a part of the “Legacy Of The Beast Tour” and certainly a way to experience it for those who did not have this opportunity. If anything raises a question, it is because they chose to release something so majestic only with sound coverage but without the visual representation of the real events and reactions… Maybe last year’s online release of their concert in “Rock In Rio” is a possible answer.

Speaking specifically about the new live release of MAIDEN, it is about a hundred minutes of music, recorded in three consecutive sold out concerts in September 2019 in Mexico City. We would say that the recording is relatively raw. It exudes a sense of authenticity, a sound that would evoke the unforgettable “Live At Donington”, a little “dirty”, not too polished. Some will like it, others will not, but it definitely conveys the atmosphere of the concert,and places you in the heart of the audience. An audience that has passion, has intensity and seems to enjoy every moment.

The band itself knows very well what to do and as always does it perfectly. With the exception of “Aces High” in which Bruce seems relatively tired, he picks up instantly from “Where Eagles Dare” and performs to his known standards. In the first “Scream for me”, the crowd “obeys” the frontman of the Beast and literally deposit their throats. The rest of MAIDEN, from the crystal guitars of Adrian and Dave to Janick’s most “bum”, from Nicko’s unmistaken drums to the awesome bass of leader Steve Harris,everything is flawless.

A beautiful release from the biggest band on the planet, a live full of great songs, but most importantly, a live that will evoke many memories to the listeners and make others regret once again that they were not in Malakasa that night…

Rating: N/A
Editor: Fanouris Exintavelonis
Related Link: IRON MAIDEN – Official Page