IRON MAIDEN from fear to eternity the best of 1990-2010 TOCP-71080

Let’s dive into the comprehensive second volume of Iron Maiden’s definitive best-of series. This is “From Fear To Eternity – The Best Of 1990-2010,” released in Japan on June 15, 2011, via EMI with the catalog number TOCP-71080-81. This particular copy is the initial 1st pressing, which includes the original obi strip and a bonus album artwork sticker.

Following the 2008 release of “Somewhere Back In Time” (covering their 80s output), this double-CD set chronicles the band’s journey through the next two decades. It spans from 1990’s “No Prayer for the Dying” up to 2010’s chart-topping “The Final Frontier,” capturing a period of evolution, lineup changes, and triumphant reunion.

The compilation features 23 tracks across two discs. It includes modern classics like “The Wicker Man,” “Blood Brothers,” “Paschendale,” and “El Dorado” (their Grammy-winning track).

Interestingly, while covering the Blaze Bayley era (mid-90s), the compilation opts to use live versions of key tracks like “Sign Of The Cross,” “Man On The Edge,” and “The Clansman” featuring Bruce Dickinson on vocals, rather than the original studio recordings. This choice provides a unified vocal experience but has been a point of discussion among fans who wished to see Bayley’s original contributions represented.

TOCP-71080-81 is a massive collection for fans, offering a curated journey through the band’s “progressive” era and their modern renaissance. The Japanese edition comes packed with extras, including extensive liner notes and translations.