Bruce Dickinson has confirmed that his next solo album is officially in the can, revealing that he recorded a whopping 16 tracks in just three weeks earlier this year.
The IRON MAIDEN frontman shared the update during a recent interview with Rolling Stone, where he also reflected on his physical condition and enduring energy despite years of wear and tear.
“I got two metal hips, I got a busted Achilles I had stitched back together five years ago, various contusions and lumps and bumps. But I’m still running around like a lunatic, and the voice is doing great,” Bruce said.
He then dropped the key update fans have been waiting for: “I just finished a solo record: We did 16 tracks in 21 days, all 100 percent live. It’s like the anti-A.I. generation.”
The yet-untitled album — Dickinson’s eighth solo effort — was tracked in January and February at Studio 606, the renowned facility owned by Dave Grohl in Northridge, California.
For this record, Dickinson once again teamed up with his current touring lineup, including keyboardist Mistheria, drummer Dave Moreno, bassist Tanya O’Callaghan, and guitarists Chris Declercq and Philip Näslund. Longtime collaborator Roy Z (Roy “Z” Ramirez) also returns as co-writer and producer, continuing a creative partnership that dates back decades.
The sessions also featured a notable guest contribution from Andreas Kisser of SEPULTURA, who added percussion to the recordings. Kisser later described the experience as an honor, sharing his excitement about working with Dickinson at Studio 606.
Another glimpse into the album’s creation came from Jeff Scott Soto, who happened to visit the studio while Bruce was finishing his vocal takes. Soto recalled: “How lucky am I? I went to say hello to my dear friend Mistheria who I worked with on his VIVALDI METAL PROJECT and of course is part of Bruce Dickinson‘s solo endeavors these days.
“Arrived at Dave Grohl‘s studio right as Bruce was doing some final vocals to his new album. He finished and came out to chat/hang a little but then asked if I wanted to hear a few of the songs…umm, YEA!!
“I must say besides the fact that he is still singing at the top of his game, the songs, performances, and the overall vibe I got from all was beyond impressive, I think this outing will be one of his strongest ever outside of the MAIDEN camp.
“To add frosting on the cake, I got to try a prototype for a new Trooper beer, this one is a nice IPA which I’m normally not a fan of, but this was really good, it’s not out yet so I feel pretty lucky to have tried it before the rest of the world haha”.
Dickinson’s forthcoming release will be his next solo studio album following The Mandrake Project, which was released in March 2024 via BMG. The album is not expected to arrive before 2027.
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