18th Studio Album discussion
- Thread starter Siddharth
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- #ironmaiden18
Probably in the first months of 2026.
Kalata
Out of the Silent Planet
Next year, but when, we don't know. But we do know that he can record not all in once, although with his solo band we can't be sure if they'll record in parts. There's a timeframe for another solo tour, I like to think he'll prioritize a Maiden album. They will imo. Even if Maiden release it in the next two years, Bruce will want a good promotion for his again and not in the same year. So if Maiden release it in 2027, Bruce could release it in 2028 (but no solo tours in the next 2 years... not sure at all; Adrian and Steve are different, although who knows, to save some solos songs?) between the legs of a Maiden tour again, no time in 2026 unless it's announced later this year. 2026 for one, 2027 for the other. Beyond that, idk. Bruce probably won't do a solo tour without a new album to promote, like a Hits tour or a special History one, so let's see. The next two years are key.
I think that having the RFYL tour run until the end of 2026, there is no chance Bruce or Maiden release a new album in 26. Then if Maiden are to release a new album it will be in 27. Otherwise Bruce might release one in 27. Who knows. We have to wait for at least 2 more years for a new album, if that happens.
I think the RFYL Tour is planned to be one of the most spectacular in the band's history, if not the most spectacular tour people are talking about. In the press kit, they've stated Iron Maiden's going to play at some of the biggest venues in the band's history, so they tend to attract more people than usual. I think 2026 is the year the band plans to play even more dates in different territories around the world - probably in the second half of the year 'til the last weeks of December, with 55 - 58 shows combined. If the band is about to record and release their 18th studio album, they must enter the studio between March and June 2026 (after S/K solo dates and first IM shows). The new album should be released in 2027 (May or August) when the rising wave after the RFYL tour and documentary screenings is still significant.
IF there is a new album. They might just announce another history tour, like a "reunion tour" or another legacy-style tour. Nobody knows if they plan to release another album. Also, they might not care at all about the timings and just release an album, when they have good material.
Ben Beast
Educated Fool
If releasing documentary in autumn (supposedly) close to North America dates announcement to generate high ticket sales for NA leg, then why wouldn't it be (the best) smart move to release album number 18 in 2026 autumn to generate high album selling numbers in North America? So just after the NA leg has ended ( or ending) in North America, would be the best time to hype new album.
Does it sound impossible? I think it's the most logical outcome, recently Maiden has released albums in autumn.
Does it sound impossible? I think it's the most logical outcome, recently Maiden has released albums in autumn.
Not immposible, they should record album between March and June and release this one after the whole Tour, in 2027 maybe in March. I don't think the band will release a brand new music during completely different Tour, it doesn't make a sense at All.
Patrick92
Ancient Mariner
I was thinking the same thing. Maiden are doing a massive 2025–2026 tour, selling tons of tickets and getting a lot of buzz. They’re also releasing a new book and a documentary to celebrate 50 years of Maiden. To me, it would make perfect sense to release a new record alongside all of this—it would really tie into the 50-year celebration and capitalize on the momentum surrounding the band right now. Plus, 2026 marks five years since Senjutsu, so the timing feels just right