Description

2017 re-issue on black vinyls with gatefold cover.

This is one of the most interesting and most controversial records ever made. The mighty Iron Maiden in what you could call a different costume. The X Factor is clearly their most dark and personal record, just the ingredients that has made it one of their best. The atmosphere on this record is simply astonishing, dark, gloomy, depressed and dramatic. If you really like this album depends on which style of Maiden you dig, perhaps this is one of those records that you either really like or just never got hooked by. Lyrically it is simply the best Maiden has ever written, I love records that has this certain from start to end theme or mood, this being a perfect example of how to do this without making the lyrics or music monotone or uninspiring. A very special and challenging album indeed, relying very much on mid-tempo tracks and huge atmospheres, but I think Maiden did the right thing with this one, making songs and lyrics coming straight form the soul. With 71 minutes of music I’m not that concerned with the fact that a couple of elements aren’t working out that well making a couple of songs lacking a bit behind, overall this is breathtaking and deeply striking music.

Tracklist
1. Sign Of The The Cross
2. Lord Of The Flies
3. Man On The Edge
4. Fortunes Of War
5. Look For The Truth
6. The Aftermath
7. Judgement Of Heaven
8. Blood On The World’s Hands
9. The Edge Of Darkness
10. 2 A.M.
11. The Unbeliever