Tyranny of Souls

Bruce Dickinson has been one of (if not the) leading voice of heavy metal – possessing one of the genre's most instantly recognizable singing styles. Reuniting with Iron Maiden in the late '90s, Dickinson's solo career took a back seat as a result of non-stop recording and gigging. But with Iron Maiden taking a break after their tour in support of Dance of Death wrapped up, Dickinson was finally left with enough time to work on his first solo recording in seven years. Hooking up once more with co-collaborator, guitarist, and producer Roy Z, Tyranny of Souls signals Dickinson's solo return.

Expectedly, Dickinson's Iron Maiden roots run deep, and quite a few songs resemble the style of his full-time band – especially Mars Within and Power of the Sun. But there are other times where Dickinson injects styles that wouldn't fit on an Iron Maiden record – a piano breakdown in Kill Devil Hill and the acoustic guitar-and voice-driven ditty, Navigate the Seas of the Sun. Also, it must be said that Dickinson's voice is as strong as ever – years of road and studio work have not diminished his skills in the slightest. Tyranny of Souls will satisfy the appetites of most Iron Maiden fans until their next album appears. Devil On A Hog is a terrific edgy track and Abduction is a storm trooper with its hefty armor and scary demeanor. Soul Intruders is probably the most Iron Maiden-like song on the album with its galloping riffs and tight rhythm section. River Of No Return opens with a firm riff and remains just as secure and intimidating. The title track is a great way to end the album with a slow build up before a volcano of harsh sounds erupts and flows into action. Tyranny of Souls is a fine album that demonstrates two things. One: it shows that Bruce Dickinson is a great metal icon. And two: that the album is just as much about Roy Z's exceptional talents as Dickinson's song-writing skills and vocal power.

A staggeringly powerful album, Tyranny of Souls takes the listener on an adventurous journey, beginning in punishing fashion with apocalyptic drumming and fiery guitar work. As most of you could anticipate it is once again a solid effort in the same musical style as its latest predecessors. Bruce Dickinson must be feeling on top of the world at the moment. He retains his legendary position as the frontman in one of the world's most popular heavy metal bands and his latest solo album is intense, exciting and forceful. Like Iron Maiden's last album, the excellent Dance of Death in 2003, Tyranny of Souls is much darker than those that have come before, filled as it is with black and moody lyrics about the macabre. There is a contemporary twist with staggered, quasi-thrash metal riffs but a firm 80s metal strength. Tyranny of Souls hinges on old school British metal but with a darker, faster American flavor.