If ever there was a time for Steve and the boys to prove that Maiden had any worthwhile existence in the modern day world, then the Y2K seemed as good a time as any. Brave New World has turned out to be the album that Maiden fans have waited for. In my opinion this is one of the great metal albums of modern times, definately on a par with their finest work of the Mid eighties. Gone have the dodgy 'fillers' that cluttered (and ruined) most of their recent albums and what we are left with is an album that reeks quality. The return of Bruce was seen as many cynics as a last throw of the dice by the band that had been falling away from prominence since his departure, and if that is the case then he certainly is giving his all. Back is the 'air raid siren' of old and you have to wonder where it really went to after 'Seventh Son'. But BNW is more than just Dickinson's return to form. The musical quality on offer from the three axe men is breathtaking at its best.Be it heavy metal riffing on 'Ghost of the Navigator' or trading melodies on 'Thin line....' all i can say is that I can't get them out of my head! Another factor which has proved to be benficial is the introduction of Kevin Shirley as producer. He has found the perfect balance for the band and my speakers where jumping around more than I was playing the Album! My favourite song on the album (like everyone elses it seems) is the awsome 'Dream of Mirrors' Quite simply, the best song that they have recorded since 'Hallowed be thy Name' and a contender for best Maiden song ever, only time will tell. So go on, buy the album now. Be Brave.