Author Neil Daniels has written several music biographies (Judas Priest, Bon Jovi, Linkin Park), and his latest effort chronicles the career of one of metal’s longest-running and best known bands. ‘Iron Maiden: The Ultimate Unauthorized History of the Beast’ will be published June 26 by Voyageur Press.

The 200 plus page hardcover book is packed with over 400 photos and includes cover art by Derek Riggs, who created Maiden’s iconic mascot Eddie. Starting at the beginning in 1975 when the band was formed by Steve Harris, ‘Iron Maiden: The Ultimate Unauthorized History of the Beast’ covers all eras of the band. The various lineup changes, including going from vocalist Paul Di’Anno to Bruce Dickinson to Blaze Bayley and back to Dickinson, are described in detail.

All of Maiden’s studio albums are analyzed and discussed by Daniels along with other metal journalists including Martin Popoff, Ian Christe and Mick Wall. The photos feature the band performing live and capture them offstage as well. There are also numerous pictures of memorabilia, show posters, backstage passes and t-shirts from throughout the legendary group’s career.

Iron Maiden will return to North America later this month for a tour based on their 1988 ‘Seventh Son’ trek. The ‘Maiden England’ tour kicks off June 21 in Charlotte, N.C. with opener Alice Cooper. Coheed and Cambria will open the shows beginning July 21.

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