
As a lifelong Iron Maiden fan I have been awaiting the moment when Steve Harris would finally release a solo CD. As the chief songwriter and architect of the Maiden sound I was curious to see how it would sound. After one listen to 'British Lion', I can say it sounds just like I hoped it would.
British Lion are Harris (bass), Richard Taylor (vocals), David Hawkins (guitar/keyboards), Grahame Leslie (guitar) and Simon Dawson (drums). From first song to last note, the band prove they shouldn't be limited by the natural Iron Maiden comparisons.
The 10 songs vary in style and feel but definitely have more in common with UFO, Thin Lizzy and Deep Purple than they do Iron Maiden. 'This Is My God', Us Against The World' and my favorite 'Eyes Of The Young' contain some incredible vocals and hooks that are radio friendly...if radio played good music. But there are a few nods to Harris' day job in the epic 'A World Without Heaven' and 'Up Against The World' .
With each listen I'm more impressed by what British Lion the band has created and what 'British Lion' the album sounds like. The biggest compliment I can give it is that it has stayed in my car CD player since I got it.
Matman Rating: 5 out 5 awesome discs