Kia Forum October 08 2024 Words by Morty Coyle by A Rood Photography
Iron Maiden, one of the biggest names on the classic Heavy Metal shortlist, made the third stop of their current US tour in Los Angeles, CA at the Kia Forum. Predictably, it was another sold out show as hordes of loyal fans of all ages came to pay homage to these persevering pioneers.
With a tour billed as The Future Past, their career-spanning setlist treated the appreciative crowd to several of their expected classics while also fully realizing the mettle of material from more recent albums.
The multiple selections from 1986’s Somewhere in Time and their latest, 2021’s Senjutsu illustrated the band’s ability to still thrill listeners of all generations while paying special respect to newer converts to their cause.
The awe-inspiring stage design combining futuristic themes with notably nostalgic elements was immeasurably enhanced by impressive pyrotechnics and giant stage props like the iconic mid-‘80s version of Iron Maiden’s zombiefied (and innumerably merchandised) mascot, Eddie (the Head).
Fervent fans head-banged and pumped fists and horns to the carefully curated setlist that also featured “Wasted Years” “Alexander the Great”, and “The Writing on the Wall”. The dynamic blend of past and present material was supplemented by the practical effects of pyro and smoke and supersized by giant video screens that added a cinematic experience to their performance.
Not to be outdone by the spectacle of their surroundings, the guitar trio of Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, and Janik Gers were every bit as crucially captivating. Founding member and primary songwriter Steve Harris’ inimitable bass mastery anchored the low end while Nicko McBrain thundered from the drum throne he’s reigned upon since the early ‘80s. Remarkably tireless powerhouse frontman Bruce Dickinson’s voice soared atop the sonic soundscape.
Check out the full gallery of photos from this show here.
The band’s continued connection to their audience was clear from the start as Dickinson fully engaged the crowd. Interspersing their set with his stories and recollections made the whole night a personal experience for their devoted fans. It’s a testament to their enduring legacy and a shared celebration of the band’s history, fidelity, and non-stop evolution. The indelible impact of this show clearly left a lasting impression on those worldwide fans who traveled to L.A. because they couldn’t wait for Maiden to come to them.
The tour kicked off in San Diego and will eventually cover the earth over the coming months and years.
SETLIST:
Caught Somewhere in Time
Stranger in a Strange Land
The Writing on the Wall
Days of Future Past
The Time Machine
The Prisoner
Death of the Celts
Can I Play With Madness
Heaven Can Wait
Alexander the Great
Fear of the Dark
Iron Maiden
Encore:
Hell on Earth
The Trooper
Wasted Years
Always Look on the Bright Side of Life
(Monty Python song)
Check out the full gallery of photos from this show here.
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