"Bruce Dickinson discusses the reason behind his solo music being more heavy than that of Iron Maiden, despite the somber atmosphere"
Iron Maiden founder Steve Harris and frontman Bruce Dickinson are known for their iconic contributions to heavy metal music. However, both musicians are exploring new territories in their respective solo careers.
Bruce Dickinson, in his solo work, leans more towards downtuning and fewer guitar harmonies, compared to his work with Iron Maiden. This shift is evident in his recent projects, such as the remix of his 1994 album Balls To Picasso, which features a greater emphasis on the guitar tracks.
Dickinson's seventh solo album, The Mandrake Project, released last year via BMG, also showcases this heavier sound. During the tour, he played new material from his eighth album to his team and management, who have given it a warm reception.
Steve Harris, on the other hand, draws more influence from progressive rock in his writing. This is reflected in Iron Maiden's music, which has a significant stylistic influence from Harris. Despite this, Iron Maiden does not fully embrace the current trend of heaviness in music.
Harris has expressed enthusiasm for Dickinson's new material, indicating a shared appreciation for innovation in their respective solo work. Guitarist Janick Gers, also of Iron Maiden, has been inspired by Dickinson's eighth solo album, expressing positivity about the material while working on his own projects.
Dickinson compares the vast palette of an artist to his greater emphasis on heaviness in his solo work. He acknowledges the risk of spreading oneself thin by taking such risks, but believes it is a risk worth taking for an artist.
Meanwhile, Iron Maiden's 50th-anniversary tour includes material from their first nine albums. The European leg of the tour, Run For Your Lives, has been completed, with more dates expected to be announced, extending the tour into 2026.
The kind of soundscape that Steve Harris prefers does not accommodate all-out heaviness, which is a stark contrast to Dickinson's approach in his solo work. Despite this, both musicians continue to push the boundaries of heavy metal music, offering fans a diverse range of sounds and styles.
