The Number of the Beast, Iron Maiden's third studio album, released on March 22, 1982, in the U.S. and a week later in the UK, marked a turning point for the band. It introduced Bruce Dickinson as their new lead vocalist and was the final album to feature drummer Clive Burr. The album catapulted Iron Maiden to new heights, becoming their first album to top the UK Albums Chart and breaking into the top 40 of the US Billboard 200.

Fueled by hit singles like "Run to the Hills", their first UK top-ten single, and the title track "The Number of the Beast", the album’s heavy riffs and aggressive energy defined the band’s signature sound. Its controversial religious references and dark themes sparked outrage, particularly in the U.S., where critics and religious groups denounced it for its perceived satanic imagery.

Despite the controversy, the album became a landmark in heavy metal, solidifying Iron Maiden’s status as one of the genre's most influential bands. The album’s legacy extended beyond its release, with "The Beast" becoming a nickname for the band and inspiring titles for later compilations and live albums such as Best of the Beast and Visions of the Beast.

2024 reissue includes the 2015 remastered version of all tracks, released via Parlophone Records.

Tracklist:

Side A