Last night was one of those rare concert experiences that stick with you for a lifetime. Having attended concerts for nearly 50 years, I’ve seen a spectrum of opening acts—some outstanding, others lackluster. As I headed to this show, my expectations for the opener were tempered, especially outside the realm of festivals.
However, I had heard raving reviews about The HU, a metal band hailing from Mongolia. I knew little about them prior to the show, but their performance was a revelation. From the moment they took the stage, I was captivated. Their unique sound, a blend of traditional Mongolian throat singing and modern metal, hit me like a relentless force. It reminded me of the way Johnny Cash’s early music resonated with a rhythmic intensity.
The HU’s high-energy performance was a tidal wave of sound that kept the audience engaged throughout. They interacted well with the crowd, making them a standout opener for Iron Maiden. I believe their popularity is only going to grow, and I highly recommend checking them out.
When Iron Maiden took the stage, they certainly did not disappoint. I’ve been a fan since the early ’80s, and they’ve consistently delivered stellar performances. This time was no exception; the show was phenomenal.
One aspect I appreciate about Iron Maiden is their ability to mix up setlists on each tour. This time, they played “Alexander the Great,” which I believe was performed live for the first time on this tour. They also included deep cuts like “Iron Maiden,” “Can I Play with Madness,” “The Trooper,” and the ever popular “Wasted Years.” Many fans speculated that next year’s tour might lean more toward a greatest-hits format, which would be interesting to see.
A poignant moment came when the band took time to honor their original singer, Paul Di’Anno, who recently passed away. They asked the audience for a moment of silence in his memory, a heartfelt tribute that resonated deeply with longtime fans.
While I would have preferred more pyrotechnics—because what’s metal without a little fire?—the theatrics were still impressive. Bruce Dickinson battled one of the iconic Eddie characters, while the light shows and production screens elevated the experience. The sound mix was impeccable, showcasing the professionalism and musicianship of the band.
Overall, Iron Maiden delivered a masterclass in classic metal. I found myself at the barrier, feeling like a teenager again, just as I did back in the early ’80s. If you’ve drifted away from Iron Maiden, I encourage you to revisit their music. They remain as powerful and captivating as ever.
