Iron Maiden-Brave New World (2000)

In 2000, the classic Iron Maiden lineup returned, joined by Janick Gears, who had already played on the previous four albums. This marked the return of Bruce Dickinson and Adrian Smith, and also the return of the best progressive and epic heavy metal so characteristic of the British band. From the addictive "Wicker Man", with its captivating triple-guitar riffs and irresistible vocal choruses, to the epic "The Thin Line Between Love and Hate", the sextet of Bruce Dickinson, Adrian Smith, Janick Gears, Steve Harris, Nicko McBrain, and Dave Murray created another tremendous heavy metal album, a true masterpiece composed of fantastic songs with intricate instrumental arrangements and sublime progressive elements. In addition to the aforementioned songs, other highlights include the hard rock anthem "The Fallen Angel", the inspired "Ghost of the Navigator", the irresistible and memorable "Blood Brothers", the epic "The Nomad", and the sophisticated "Dream of Mirrors". With this twelfth album, Iron Maiden once again reached the pinnacle of their long career, evolving and progressing beyond their punk and metal roots, crafting another of their finest achievements within progressive heavy metal.