Release date: May 17,2025
Paul Di’Anno (born Paul Andrews) crafted a legacy in the world of metal that earned him a hallowed place in the pantheon of legendary figures. His body of work includes solo music and bands such as Gogmagog, DiAnno’s Battlezone, Killers, Rockfellas, Praying Mantis, Architects of Chaoz, and Warhorse. Of course, the cornerstone of his contribution is his work with NWOBHM/metal legends Iron Maiden. Spanning two albums (“Iron Maiden” and “Killers”) his gritty vocal style drew from the world of punk, while the music fused rock and prog. Together, they released music that is foundational to the very core of what metal is today.
Back in the Summer of 1978, Steve Harris, Dave Murray, and Doug Sampson had been rehearsing and were on quest for a new singer for the refreshed line up of their band. At the legendary Red Lion in Leytonstone (London), a chance meeting turned into a successful audition. Paul Di’Anno stepped on stage for the first time as lead singer of Iron Maiden. Recording and touring from 1978 through early 1981, Iron Maiden released two albums, earned a rabid fan base, and put them on a path to world domination. Songs like “Wratchchild”, “Running Free”, “Transylvania”, “Phantom of the Opera”, and so many more set a high bar for the rest of the heavy metal world to rise to. Though his time with Iron Maiden was short, he would go on to a prolific career in metal.
On October 24, 2024, Paul Di’Anno shed his mortal coil and joined the sacred halls of Metal Valhalla. While troubled by health issues in his final years, his defiant and uncompromising attitude saw him perform from a wheelchair. He lived a life of metal on his own terms and set things in motion that proved to be much bigger than himself. Though his voice is now silent, he still lives in the hearts and minds of heavy metal fans worldwide.
His legacy endures!
On May 17th, 2025 (what would have been his 67th birthday), the compilation “In Memory Of” will be released. The album is a carefully curated selection of songs he recorded while with the Metalville Records label. In addition, there are two incredible bonus tracks not previously available on physical media: “Je suis Charlie” by Architects of Chaoz and “Killers” from Wacken Open Air 2015.
Along with the recordings, there will be a booklet of photos (some previously unpublished) and exclusive liner notes written by internationally recognized Iron Maiden biographer Matthias Mader. For the die-hard legions of Paul Di’Anno and Iron Maiden fans, this is an opportunity to hear, see, and read deeper into his legacy.
In addition, part of the proceeds from the sale of every CD and LP of “In Memory Of” will go the charitable organization Metality e.V. Paul was well known for taking an interest in the well-being of others, even in light of his own health challenges, and this further serves to honor his memory to the many purposes he served.
The music is available for pre-order via the shop at Metalville. Fans can purchase the CD or the LP, depending on their taste.
Review
“Impaler” opens the album with a blistering live version. We are greeted with the late, great Paul Di’Anno simply growling the title of the song in front of a cheering audience. His voice is rich and powerful, delivering that unmistakable punk energy and trademark raspiness. Then, double-kick drums and crashing cymbals give way to a full-on assault by the guitars. It’s a galloping riff that surges forward like the hunter in the lyrics. Di’Anno roars, “Impaler seals your doom / Flying down on you” in the chorus. It’s easy to imagine a pit of swirling bodies forming in front of the stage as the band delivers a full force performance to them.
Next is a previously unreleased gem titled “Je suis Charlie”. Architects of Chaoz guitarists Andreas Ballnus and Joey Siedl begin playing a bright and sharp riff to start this song off. It gives way to the full band kicking in with an uptempo and melodic song, with all hell breaking loose when Paul begins his vocal onslaught. The song is related to the January 2015 attack on the French newspaper Charlie Hedbo, with the slogan “Je suis Charlie” being adopted as a rallying cry for the freedom of self-expression. Metal has a long history of statements and messages regarding the ills of society and this song is no exception. The combination of the music, vocals, and message come together well.
The following entry is another Architects of Chaoz song titled, “Switched Off…” This track drops the tempo and is a mood. Di’Anno shows a different range in his vocals throughout the track with a cleaner delivery than his normal bellowing. Make no mistake, his vocals are still powerful and majestic. There is a distinct air of melancholy in the music and the words. Considering Paul’s ultimate fate, it’s interesting to listen to this song and consider what he may have gone through at that time. The closing line of the song is “NO MORE PAIN” and he delivers it with every fiber of his being. It’s a bit chilling.
Coming up next is a pair of live tracks that get the blood pumping. “The Beast Arises” is a melodic jam that thunders and thrashes in all the right places. The band pulsates with a sinister pace and Paul is a commanding presence in the maelstrom. His voice is the centerpiece here with grit, rasp, and power. A great touch here are his interactions to acknowledge the audience and bring their energy into his performance.
“Marshall Lokjaw” opens ominously and drops into a imposing and surging presence. The guitars figure prominently with their setting pace for the song. In the mix, you feel the bass and drums like the unrelenting march of Marshall Lokjaw himself as he searches for justice. Paul Di’Anno almost transforms himself into the main character as he screeches, “I’m one bad dude, lockjaw’s my name, I’ll blow you away, I don’t play games”. This is absolutely a stand-out track.
“Rejected” and “You’ve Been Kissed By The Wings Of The Angel of Death” are the ensuing two tracks that take us back to the Architects of Chaoz era. “Rejected” settles into an up-tempo track that showcases the talent of the band. Tight guitar work delivering alternating leads and rhythm riffs pound the listener. Ear pounding double kick drums and heavy bass make the bones rattle. Paul Di’Anno soars with his vocals and brings it all together. This has the makings of an anthem and would mobilize the biggest crowd into a swirling pit of chaos.
With “You’ve Been Kissed By The Wings Of The Angel of Death”, things get hot and heavy in quick order. The guitars are simultaneously searing and shredding in their opening. The crisp snap of the snare drum calls out to you. There’s a nice fat and juicy bass line in the mix that is the gel that holds it all together. At several intervals on this track, Di’Anno shrieks and really shows his range as a vocalist. This one is more than a toe-tapper… it’s a neck snapper.
The legendary song “Running Free” needs no introduction to any true fan of metal. In the impossible instance that you’ve never heard this song, then relish in the fact that you’re being introduced to a song that served at the crucible of creation for what we all know as metal. This is a live version of this legendary song and showcases everything about why this man is a legend. Turn it up loud and listen to it every day.
Another entry featuring Architects of Chaoz is “Apache Falls”. After listening to the entries on this record by this band, it must be said that the band are a tight unit that make amazing music. Everything is on point, from the guitars to the bass and drums. What jumps out on this track are the guitar solos. They are white hot face melters! I won’t go so far as to say they overshadow the vocals (IMPOSSIBLE!), but they certainly jump out at the listener. There’s a certain atmosphere that’s been conjured up in the production values of the track, from the ceremonial introduction through the addition of the piano at the end.
It’s no secret that punk influenced Paul in his energy and presence. A fitting homage to this is the cover song “Blitzkrieg Bop”. It is loud, bombastic, fast, and everything you want from Paul Di’Anno. Simply legendary… enough said!
Finally, to close out the album are another pair of gems from the Architects of Chaoz. First up is their version of “Killers” to close out their set at Wacken Open Air 2015. This song stands out as a scion in the Iron Maiden catalog and within the metal universe at large. It’s an ambitious undertaking to take on a tune with such hallowed stature. The Architects of Chaoz channels the spirit of early Iron Maiden and delivers a worth tribute to both Paul and Maiden. It’s not difficult to imagine the energy at this event given the players involved, but some of that does shine through in the live recording. Of note, it’s a bit touching to hear Paul address the crowd, especially knowing that this is being posthumously released.
To close, “Solider of Fortune” is presented. An acoustic opening sets the tone for the track while Paul delivers a passionate sermon telling the story of someone who has seen some stuff, as they say. While the music is great, the highlight of the track is the vocal delivery. Paul Di’Anno was so well known for his howling and growling, but he sings a to different tune on the track. It’s a fitting closer to the album.
Conclusion
Paul Di’Anno is a legend who has gone on to Metal Valhalla. All we have left are the recordings from his career and the stories we can tell from his live performances. From that fateful audition at the Red Lion to the moment he drew his final breath, the man lived an existed steeped in legend and forged of metal.
“In Memory Of” is a fitting tribute to the man. The album is filled with gems of all types: old classics, new legends, and even a tribute to the roots that shaped him. This is a worthy entry in the collection of anyone who is a serious fan of metal.
TheNwothm Score: 9/10
Links
Official Web Site: www.pauldianno.co.uk
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pauldiannoofficial
Facebook: www.facebook.com/metalville
Label: www.metalville.de
The Nwothm 
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