Steve Harris and Dave Murray are the only members of what would become Maiden's classic line-up present on this debut, which may account for its punk edge not present on following albums. The songwriting is mostly impeccable, but a slightly thin and ragged production mars what is still a very impressive and fully-realised first effort.
Feels a very odd beast listening back to it now, doesn't it? All the expected NWOBHM guitar masturbatory excellence is present and correct but at the same time the rough edges and the football chanting of Paul Di'Annio give it a very different feel. Almost Oi, although that's probably going a bit too far. Well, a lot too far. But it's a great album with loads of character.
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