Paul is an absolute legend to many and that's why 500 of us are gathered at the sold out Underworld tonight. This gig is part of the 'Beast Resurrection' tour, Di'Anno's return after a long absence, and the set list features almost exclusively Iron Maiden songs from those first two albums.
Pavlos is not in good health, to put it mildly, having undergone numerous operations in recent years, today he is confined to a wheelchair. In the composite, he tells us that he woke up today with a cold and a sore throat and is clearly struggling with his voice even when he speaks. He jokes that he hopes it's not Covid (the 3 front rows take a step back…).
The place is buzzing with anticipation regardless, as the crowd is there to show Paul their support as much as to have fun. This is the kind of faith it has given birth to in believers.
Opening with the pacy 'Prowler' and 'Charlotte the Harlot' it was clearly a struggle vocally, under the circumstances. Not the easiest track to warm up to vocally, but they seemed to do the job, at least clearing the phlegm. So from the moment the dreamy “Remember Tomorrow” kicks in, Di'Anno's powerful trademark vocal style begins to shine.
Giving the vocals a chance to rest, some instruments are included. Perfect for tonight's situation, but odd choices in the standard tour setlist, given that we're all here for Di'Anno's vocals.
The band is energetic, very capable and staying true to the original tracks without overtly trying to be an “Iron Maiden tribute band” (in appearance and equipment) is a good decision. The focus is ultimately on Paul Di'Anno.
Taking us through selected songs from Iron Maiden and Killers albums, Paul does his best while battling a cough. Although for any dropped lines or interruptions, the crowd is of course more than capable of filling in.
Towards the end of the set they throw in a cover of the Sex Pistols “Holidays in the Sun”, where John Lydon's punk/crossover influence on Di'Anno's vocal style becomes more apparent than ever. It's often been said that Paul brought a distinctly punk sound to early Iron Maiden, and he still does (phlegm permitting).
The song 'Drifter' brings the scene to a climax of the song and after just over an hour on stage Paul says his thanks and takes to the wings. An undignified exit for a bona fide metal icon, but he expresses his gratitude for the support and affection he continues to receive from his loyal following, and it's clear he means it.
If you had wandered in off the street to see this show, you'd be wondering what the hell you were seeing. But of course, for the 500 of us in the know, it's about more than just a show – it's about the full story, Paul's legendary status in the genre, an understanding of his recent health struggles and of course a not-so-shabby catalog of early Maiden classics tunes to enjoy.
3/5 stars for its legendary status, tonight's effort at (extra) adversity and nostalgic value!
Definition list
Arpax
Charlotte the Whore
Wrathchild
Murders in the Rue Morgue
Remember Tomorrow
Genghis Khan
Purgatory
Murderers
the Phantom of the Opera
Asylum
Transylvania
Running free
Holiday in the Sun (Sex Pistols)
Wandering aimlessly
