IRON MAIDEN live after death EMS-67180

The Definitive Heavy Metal Live Album: Iron Maiden’s ‘Live After Death’ (EMS-67180-81)

Today’s entry presents what is arguably the greatest live album in the history of heavy metal, preserved in its most desirable format. We are examining the 1985 Japanese Promo Sample first pressing of Live After Death by Iron Maiden, released on EMI with the catalog number EMS-67180-81. This release captures the band at the absolute zenith of their powers during the grueling, legendary “World Slavery Tour.”

“Scream for Me, Long Beach!”

Released on November 30, 1985, this double LP serves as the ultimate document of the classic Iron Maiden lineup. Sides A, B, and C were recorded during their four-night stand at the Long Beach Arena in Los Angeles, capturing the massive, stadium-shaking energy of the US tour. The album opens with the iconic Winston Churchill speech leading into “Aces High,” setting a relentless pace that includes “2 Minutes To Midnight,” “The Trooper,” and the ambitious, 13-minute epic “Rime Of The Ancient Mariner.” Side D offers a different flavor, recorded at the Hammersmith Odeon in London, featuring earlier classics like “Wrathchild” and “Phantom Of The Opera.” Produced by the legendary Martin “Live Animal” Birch, the sound is powerful, clear, and undeniably live.

An Unrivaled Collector’s Package

This specific copy is a Promo Sample of the initial Japanese first pressing, making it a true holy grail for collectors. Japanese pressings of this era are already renowned for their packaging, but this edition goes above and beyond. It is housed in a stunning gatefold sleeve adorned with Derek Riggs’ intricate graveyard artwork.

As an “Initial First Pressing,” this copy includes the exclusive 8-page color photo book (notably unstapled, as designed), which was a limited bonus for early buyers. Additionally, it comes complete with the original Obi strip (which advertises the booklet), a text-heavy liner notes insert, and two printed color inner sleeves featuring lyrics and tour photos. Perhaps most unique to this specific release timeframe is the inclusion of the Toshiba-EMI 30th Anniversary crossword puzzle quiz campaign sheet, a rare piece of ephemeral paper that is often lost over the decades.

Audiophile Quality

Manufactured by Toshiba EMI, the pressing quality is immaculate. The audio was mastered by the acclaimed Wally Traugott at Capitol Records, ensuring that the dynamic range and punch of Steve Harris’s bass and Nicko McBrain’s drums are preserved with audiophile precision. For fans seeking the complete, museum-quality experience of Iron Maiden’s golden era, this promo set is the definitive article.