Edward the Great

In the late 1970s, Iron Maiden emerged as prime movers of the new wave of British heavy metal and unleashed a ferocious pack of hit singles and million-selling albums. Their recipe was simple: lyrics inspired by mythology and classic gothic literature backed by a soaring twin-guitar assault driven on by Steve Harris's relentless bass. It was an approach that influenced countless rock bands, from Metallica to a string of Scandinavian death merchants. The group's longest-standing vocalist, Bruce Dickinson, dominates this collection; only two tracks are sung by his replacement, Blaze Bayley. But it's unfortunate that no room was reserved for original singer Paul Di'Anno, denying fans the rough and punky "Runnin' Free" and "Sanctuary." There is, however, room for a live version of "Fear of the Dark" from the band's massive 2001 Rock in Rio show, included perhaps to maintain consistent production values. Even so, the early hits are sorely missed. --Dominic Wills