Released in 1982, The Number of the Beast remains one of heavy metal’s all-time classics. Although the British quintet was in the midst of enjoying its first taste of global success, original singer Paul Di’Anno abruptly quit in 1981. Though stunned, the young band wisely agreed to soldier on, making ex-Samson singer Bruce Dickinson its new frontman. Nicknamed “The Air Raid Siren,” Dickinson’s voice was to become one of the band’s most prominent signature characteristics. It also didn’t hurt that the band had composed some of its best songs ever, such as the haunting title song and its first U.K. Top Ten single, “Run to the Hills.” Other highlights include the sinister “Children of the Damned,” the melodic “The Prisoner,” and the album-closing epic “Hallowed Be Thy Name.”

Parlophone Records will follow the 2012/13 IRON MAIDEN vinyl picture disc reissues of the first eight Iron Maiden albums, which spanned the 1980s, with brand new pressings of the albums in heavyweight 180g black vinyl.

In conjunction with these premium album releases, a strictly limited one-off run of the 7” singles from each respective album will be made available. These highly collectable black vinyl singles will be cut from the original analogue master tapes. Released in replica artwork packaging, they are sure to become a must-have item for fans, collectors and anyone who missed out first time round.

The albums will also be cut from the original analogue master tapes and packaged in identical artwork to the initial 1980’s releases. As a bonus, the first batch of album releases (Iron Maiden/Killers/The Number Of The Beast) will also be made available in a Collector’s Box sized to house all 8 albums. This package will be a strictly limited edition and available while stocks last.

The release of these high quality, black vinyl records offers optimum choice to fans who would like to own a piece of Maiden’s authentic 1980’s vinyl sound, or for those simply wanting to rediscover this much loved, iconic format. Coupled with the end of the Maiden England World Tour which began in North America in 2012 and finished last month at Knebworth Park’s Sonisphere Festival, this now completes Maiden’s 1980’s touring and catalogue reissues cycle, so the band are free to focus on their dynamic future plans.