CONCERT REVIEW: Iron Maiden Celebrate 50 Years In Gelredome

If we’re talking about legacies, there are very few bands that have a legacy as formidable as Iron Maiden. Iron Maiden, formed in 1975 in London, England, is a pioneering force in heavy metal, renowned for their intricate musicianship, theatrical live performances, and iconic mascot, Eddie. With over 100 million albums sold worldwide, including seminal works like The Number of the Beast (1982) and Powerslave (1984), they’ve shaped the genre with galloping rhythms, soaring vocals, and epic storytelling.

Led by bassist Steve Harris and frontman Bruce Dickinson, the band’s relentless touring and unwavering commitment to their craft have cemented their status as metal legends, captivating generations of fans across a five-decade career.

Being that the band was formed 50 years ago, it was time for Iron Maiden to make their way to Europe again in order to celebrate this colossal milestone with a legion of fans who nearly sold-out Arnhem’s Gelredome.

On this vibrant evening, around 35,000 fans gathered from across the Netherlands to honour the 50th anniversary of Iron Maiden, one of the most enduring bands in rock history. The atmosphere was charged as the band delivered a performance that left no doubt about their legendary status.

The show began with an immersive introductory soundtrack accompanied by visuals on a massive screen at the back of the stage, setting the tone for what was to come. When Iron Maiden finally appeared, the crowd erupted, and the band launched into their set with unrelenting energy.

For a first-time attendee, frontman Bruce Dickinson’s stage presence was a standout. His boundless stamina, darting across the stage, and frequent interactions with the audience brought an infectious enthusiasm to the performance. After five decades, Dickinson’s command of the stage remains remarkable, a testament to the band’s dedication to their craft. Practice makes perfect!

The rest of the band brought equal enthusiasm, radiating genuine enjoyment. You might recall the Netflix show featuring Marie Kondo, the tidiness expert who went viral with her phrase, “Does this spark joy?” Iron Maiden’s performance embodied that same spirit. Unlike some veteran bands that might go through the motions on tour, these musicians played with such passion that joy seemed to spark across the stage, captivating the audience.

Speaking of sparks, visually, the show was stunning. Pyrotechnics, fireworks, and dynamic stage elements like large screens and platforms elevated the experience, making it engaging from start to finish.

A highlight was the appearance of Iron Maiden’s iconic mascot, Eddie, who emerged during the third song, Killers, from the album of the same name. His presence added a familiar thrill for longtime fans, and images of this moment can be found in the gallery below.

Musically, Iron Maiden showcased their mastery. The band’s technical skill was evident, with each member delivering precise and powerful performances while connecting with fans and photographers, especially during the opening songs. The setlist leaned heavily on their classic material, featuring four tracks from Powerslave and three from The Number of the Beast. Killers also had a strong presence with three songs, while other albums were represented with one or two tracks, offering a broad showcase of the band’s extensive discography. After 50 years, Iron Maiden’s ability to perform with such vigour is nothing short of inspiring.

For a glimpse of the night’s energy, check out the gallery below. If you have the chance to see Iron Maiden on their current tour, don’t miss it. An evening with this legendary band is an experience you won’t forget.