Interestingly, Nicko said he wanted to retire after the original SJ tour and only spoke to Dave about it. It seems the 50th anniv celebrations were already planned in 2018/2019.
He spoke to Bruce last December and asked him about new album - and Bruce said he wants to do, but not sure about the others. So still no plans? But that could change, three months later and especially next year. He doesn't see why not. He also said he doesn't think he'd play on more than a couple of songs.
Why more future tour/s now means no new music? And they could do a hybrid tour again. Otherwise what, playing the same old songs with no themes? RFYL Part 2?
All true, but what about Priest, Saxon. The SJ promotion wasn't big, but it was enough, with Bruce doing it all. Enthusiasm is key, yes, Bruce is full of it. This quote from him is probably about Maiden, the ending is probably close, but it could also be like a reminder for them to make one more album.
At this point of their career, yes, but they always say they don't want to be a cabaret act. And seeing how other old bands are still releasing new music more often. They earned it, ofc.