Former Iron Maiden frontman Paul Di'Anno is releasing a new album, The Book Of The Beast, coming out on September 27 through Conquest Music. The record, which will be available in eye-catching blood red, virgin white, and cold steel colored vinyl, as well as a two-disc CD/DVD set, features five previously unreleased tracks and a meticulously curated selection of songs that showcase the most compelling moments from Di'Anno's storied career.
In addition to these tracks, the CD/DVD package includes rare live, promotional, and acoustic video footage, including deep cuts from Di'Anno’s days with Battlezone, Killers, and his solo projects, all of which have been remastered to offer a more modern and refined sound. Notably, the album also includes some of Paul’s rare acoustic, rehearsal, and demo recordings as a special bonus for die-hard fans.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this new release is the unexpected reimagining of two Iron Maiden's classics, "Remember Tomorrow" and "Wrathchild," with a darker twist. These tracks feature Di'Anno in duets alongside Tony Martin (Black Sabbath), ZP Theart (DragonForce), and Lidya Balaban (Crowley).
"I suppose it might sound like an unusual combination, but Lidya has got a brilliant voice," Di'Anno shares enthusiastically. He hints at future collaborations with Tony and ZP, adding, "I'd be very interested in working on something special with Tony and ZP in the future."
The vinyl editions of The Book Of The Beast include Di'Anno’s duet with Lidya Balaban, while the CD/DVD and digital versions feature his collaborations with ZP Theart and Tony Martin.
Di'Anno is optimistic that this collection will finally bring long-overdue attention to many of his tracks that may have gone unnoticed by casual listeners. Reflecting on his past, Di'Anno laments, "I've never felt that my albums were ever given the promotion they deserved, and record labels just didn't take me seriously." However, he is hopeful that Conquest Music's efforts will help more people discover his music.
Even after his departure, those early Iron Maiden records continue to evoke passionate responses from fans, many of whom consider them the band's best work. Di'Anno’s influence has been acknowledged by members of Metallica, Pantera, and Sepultura, who have credited those albums as major inspirations. "That's always bloody brilliant to hear," Di'Anno beams. "It's nice to know that you are worth something in the grand scheme of things."
Paul Di'Anno is slated to embark on a European tour starting August 21, and continuing through mid-December 2024. In the meantime, you can pre-order The Book Of The Beast here
