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"A top-class heavy/hard rock record, 'The Mandrake Project' allows Bruce Dickinson to move a little further away from the Iron Maiden sound."
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5/5
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As time passed, the idea of Bruce Dickinson going solo again became a pipe dream. Even if he did mention releasing an album, his busy schedule with Iron Maiden left little hope of a follow-up to 'Tyranny Of Souls'. But the Englishman was tenacious and the miracle came with 'The Mandrake Project'. Revolving around magic and resurrection, the album was written in collaboration with Roy Z, Bruce Dickinson's faithful accomplice.
The melancholy atmosphere is immediately gripping, rediscovering the spirit that made 'The Chemical Wedding' so strong. 'Shadow Of The Gods' and 'Sonata (Immortal Beloved)' are two superb, convoluted pieces, full of emotion. Bruce Dickinson takes on the role of storyteller, singing in the poised manner of an actor. There's an ethereal quality to the music, underpinned by melodic, rousing solos that are full of feeling.
Beyond the dark aspects, there's a theatrical edge. 'Afterglow Of Ragnarok', 'Many Doors To Hell', 'Rain Of The Graves' and 'Eternity Has Failed' are direct and catchy. Bruce Dickinson doesn't force his voice and this hard rock register, not far removed from Alice Cooper, suits him perfectly. The keyboards take pride of place, the choruses are simple and effective and the epic side is very much present, while Roy Z delights with his touch on some pleasing virtuoso solos.
The melodic side is even stronger on 'Fingers In The Wounds' and 'Face In The Mirror', where acoustic and piano work wonders. Bruce Dickinson excels in this melancholy ballad register. The choruses are splendid, as are the chilling melodies.
With 'The Mandrake Project', Bruce Dickinson has produced a fine work worthy of the greatest moments of his solo career. Backed up by Roy Z, he cleverly moves away from the Iron Maiden sound to produce a cinematic Heavy/Hard Rock that's colourful and deliciously catchy. - Official website
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TRACK LISTING:
01. Afterglow Of Ragnarok
02. Many Doors To Hell
03. Rain On The Graves
04. Resurrection Men
 05. Fingers In The Wounds
06. Eternity Has Failed
07. Mistress Of Mercy
08. Face In The Mirror
09. Shadow Of The Gods
10. Sonata (Immortal Beloved)
LINEUP:
Bruce Dickinson: Chant
Dave Moreno: Batterie
Mistheria: Claviers
Roy Z: Guitares / Basse
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(0) MIND(S) FROM OUR READERS
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Top of the page
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(2) COMMENT(S)
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READERS
4.2/5 (5 view(s))
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STAFF:
4.6/5 (5 view(s))
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IN RELATION WITH BRUCE DICKINSON
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LAST INTERVIEW
BRUCE DICKINSON (JANUARY 12, 2024)
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It's been 19 years since Bruce Dickinson released a solo album. With 'The Mandrake Project', the almighty Iron Maiden frontman makes up for lost time and reveals all the secrets behind his ambitious project...
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OTHER REVIEWS
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OTHER(S) REVIEWS ABOUT BRUCE DICKINSON
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