The Best of the Beast
Songs
Other albums by Iron Maiden
Facts about the album "The Best of the Beast"
Album Title: The Best of the Beast
Artist: Iron Maiden
Meta Information: "The Best of the Beast" is a compilation album by British heavy metal band Iron Maiden, released in 1996. This comprehensive collection spans the band's career up to that point, featuring a selection of their most iconic and influential tracks, handpicked by the band members themselves.
Compiled in celebration of Iron Maiden's 20th anniversary, "The Best of the Beast" showcases the band's evolution over the years, from their early days with vocalist Paul Di'Anno to their later successes with Bruce Dickinson. The album serves as a definitive retrospective of Iron Maiden's greatest hits and fan favorites.
In addition to classic tracks like "Run to the Hills", "The Number of the Beast", and "Hallowed Be Thy Name", "The Best of the Beast" includes two new tracks: "Virus" and "Afraid to Shoot Strangers". These new songs offer a glimpse into Iron Maiden's ongoing creative output and serve as a treat for longtime fans.
"The Best of the Beast" features artwork by longtime Iron Maiden collaborator Derek Riggs, who created the band's iconic mascot, Eddie. The album's cover art depicts a menacing version of Eddie amidst a fiery landscape, symbolizing the enduring spirit of Iron Maiden's music and legacy.
Interesting Facts:
"The Best of the Beast" was released in multiple formats, including a standard 16-track edition, a limited edition with an additional disc of live recordings, and a vinyl edition. Each version offers fans a unique listening experience and adds value to the collection for collectors and enthusiasts.
The album's track listing was curated by the band members themselves, who selected their favorite songs and most significant tracks from their extensive catalog. This personal touch adds authenticity to the compilation and ensures that it represents Iron Maiden's vision of their own legacy.
"Virus", one of the new tracks included on "The Best of the Beast", was written during the sessions for Iron Maiden's 1995 album "The X Factor". The song's inclusion on the compilation marked its first official release, providing fans with an exclusive glimpse into Iron Maiden's creative process and unreleased material.