The Number Of The Beast
by Iron Maiden

This is a huge album in the genre and it is easy to see why when you listen to it as there is so much to love on here. This is probably the groups most consistent work with every song having some quality on it. The peak of the album is the sensational title track and also the closer Hallowed Be Thy Name which finishes the record in style. The album just feels so cohesive with most songs going into the same sort of themes and all matching in style but being very different in terms of composition which eliminates the repetitive feel you can get on similar releases in this genre. The performances are outstanding with the drums and guitar being some of the best I have heard from the group. Even the weakest song on the album, which is Gangland, has great moments and a brilliant guitar section on there. Overall, this is a must listen album in the genre and is Iron Maiden's strongest musical display. (Edited)

From AAL2014 TOP 100 COMMENTER 02/16/2015 17:06 | #135115 | TOP COMMENT Vote up your preferred comments and the comments with the most votes will be flagged.

Although I do agree that there are a couple weaker tracks on this album, it's still a staple for 80's metal (not any hair metal shit either). Bruce Dickinson's first album with the band propelled them to new heights, musically and commercially while still being a really great album. 22 Acacia Avenue, the Prisoner, and the Number of the Beast are all amazing, powerful tracks, but what really puts this album in the running for best Maiden album is the closer Hallowed Be Thy Name. (Although I like Powerslave and Seventh Son better)

Whether you are into metal or not, give this a listen. There will a lot to appreciate.

This is definitely in top 5 heavy metal records of all time. It contains two metal masterpieces - 22 Acacia Avenue and Hallowed Be Thy Name - these songs are literally perfect, but the rest holds up really well including excellent Number Of The Beast and catchy Run To The Hills. The only weak points for me are chorus of The Prisoner which has not aged very well and Gangland - it is not bad, but in my opinion pointless. Overall, this is peak of NWOBHM and crowning achievement of that era. (Edited)

From jqyelton0216 12/19/2017 01:24 | #203511 | TOP COMMENT Vote up your preferred comments and the comments with the most votes will be flagged.

Anyone else notice that the album currently has 666 ratings?

Number of the beast, was Iron Maiden's first album with Bruce Dickinson, which meant now that main songwriter Steve Harris could now write anything and not having to worry about accommodating the limited Paul D'ianno. Two thirds of the album consists of out and out Maiden classics. Children of the damned, the prisoner, run to the hills, 22 acacia avenue, hallowed be thy name, and the title track are all great metal anthems. The rest though is just ok; invaders, gangland, and, total eclipse, wouldn't be in any Maiden fan's top ten. Still, a classic cartoon metal album.