Clasically Heavey Metal
If this is your first Iron Maiden outing then the slightly softer style of this one will lull you into thinking a false sense of style exists for Iron Maiden.
It's not long before the beat of 'No More Lies' speeds up and they show their true metal. Hard and heavy drum work sets the pace for the breakneck speed of the guitar playing, which is their real hallmark. This is classically Heavy Metal!
'Paschendale' does have a similar feel to it, but with it's arraignment for orchestra; there's a new depth to the style of work. Perhaps this is to do with the subject matter of WWI. The orchestra provides the magnitude and enormity of the battle ground whilst the vocals speak of the personal battles. An amazing hail of strings and lead guitar hits you harder than bullets.
'Journeyman' again has that beginning with a guitar that sings, and vocals to match. It then picks up and launches you into a brilliant chorus, much like 'The Wicker Man'. Dickinson knows what he wants, and up to this point, he knows what we want.
But here's the catch, after 'Journeyman' ends, there's a deadly silence and you could be forgiven for thinking that the track timing was a misprint, but it's not. Suddenly you hear what sounds like an extra from some period country drama singing rather than Bruce Dickinson. There's a point where there's a chance of salvation from what could be a face melting axe solo, but then the strangled wailing starts again.
Up to the last half of 'Journeyman', the EP is a brilliant one, but the ramblings at the end make you wonder. I'm sure Iron Maiden aficionados will see the cohesion in this but it leaves me struggling.