In 1993, the metal world learned that Bruce Dickinson was
leaving Iron Maiden to focus on his solo career. I was too young at the time,
but I can only imagine what people's reactions were. History of the incident
and any Maiden linkage aside, I am a big fan of Dickinson's solo effort. Let's
back that up just a moment. I can't say I'm a complete fan, as I've only heard
random songs from the three releases prior to "Accident of Birth",
which to my ear were much more progressive rock oriented. Not that there is
anything wrong with that, but that wasn't what I was looking for sound wise.(I
have upon suggestion given more thought of revisiting those albums) As for "Accident
of Birth", it took me a few listens to distance myself from trying to
compare this to Maiden, then trying not to discredit it for not being Maiden.
Finally, once I gave this an honest, non-biased listen, I was hooked. No, the
sound is not Maiden, but I'll be damned if the music on this album isn't
catchy. Right from the start, "Freak" gets things started off with a
little more hard rock sound that gets your head nodding and foot taping, which
continues over into "Starchildren". "Darkside of Aquarius",
"The Road to Hell" and "The Magician" are songs built on
excellent riffs, crisp drumming and Dickinson's vocals. Those three, with an
extra dose of Maiden polish, could have made for some magical tracks on an Iron
Maiden album during the golden era. "Welcome to the Pit has a
progressively groovy build to its core, building toward a very catchy chorus as
does "Accident of Birth". The chorus of this song, especially the
portion; "welcome home, to your brothers and sisters" always gives me
goosebumps.
Personally, I think this album has the chops to please those
seeking some classic sounding heavy metal as well as the hard rockers of the
world. It's nowhere near a Maiden clone, but should please those seeking some
Maiden supplementation. It may not be perfect, but "Accident of
Birth" is a solid release filled with catchy grooves, memorable riffs and
Dickinson's vocals, which should be enough for anyone.
Highlights: "Darkside of Aquarius", "The Road
to Hell" "The Magician" "Accident of Birth"
Rating: 4.5
Rating: 4.5
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