Imagine a live album so legendary, it’s not just hailed as the greatest in heavy metal history but stands as an icon across all genres. Now, picture it getting a 40th-anniversary treatment that’s as epic as the music itself. On October 14, 2025, Parlophone Records (BMG in the USA) is set to unleash a jaw-dropping, limited-edition 2LP color vinyl of Iron Maiden’s Live After Death—a release that’s as much a collector’s dream as it is a sonic masterpiece. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: this isn’t just a re-release; it’s a meticulously crafted celebration of one of the most influential live recordings ever made.
Housed in the original, revered gatefold sleeve artwork, this edition comes with two 140g vinyls—one in striking blue, the other in vibrant yellow—featuring the pristine 2015 audio remastering. But wait, there’s more. The package includes a replica of the 24-page World Slavery Tour program, giving new generations a glimpse into the raw energy of the original tour. And that’s not all—you’ll also get a replica tour pass and a glossy 12-page booklet. Inside, you’ll find the original eight-page booklet alongside a brand-new, exclusive essay titled Rime And Punishment: Celebrating 40 Years Of Live After Death. In this essay, Iron Maiden Fan Club editor Alexander Milas sits down with Steve Harris, Nicko McBrain, Rod Smallwood, and legendary illustrator Derek Riggs to dive deep into the album’s legacy.
Steve Harris reflects on the era, saying, “We were touring relentlessly—record, tour, record, tour. Rod was pushing us hard, but we were up for it. We felt invincible. Back then, we had no radio play, so touring was everything. It’s how we built our reputation.” And what a reputation they built. Live After Death wasn’t just an album; it was a testament to Iron Maiden’s unparalleled live energy, recorded during their groundbreaking World Slavery Tour in 1984-1985. Most of the album was captured over four nights at Los Angeles’ Long Beach Arena in March 1985, with the final side recorded during their Hammersmith Odeon shows in October 1984.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Live After Death truly the greatest live album ever, or is it just nostalgia speaking? While fans and critics alike have crowned it as such, some argue that its impact is tied to the era it represents. What do you think? Let’s debate it in the comments.
The World Slavery Tour itself was a beast—187 concerts across 331 days, starting in Poland and solidifying Iron Maiden as one of the most electrifying live acts on the planet. This 40th-anniversary vinyl isn’t just a product; it’s a time capsule, a tribute to a band that redefined what it means to perform live.
Mark your calendars: Live After Death drops on November 28 (December 12 in the USA) and is available for pre-order now at https://ironmaiden.lnk.to/LiveAfterDeath40. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the Maiden legacy, this release is a must-have. And this is the part most people miss: It’s not just about the music—it’s about the stories, the artwork, and the history that make this album a cultural touchstone. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of it.
