Personally, the only reason why they sound old is quite frankly Nicko. They're all performing particularly well.
But, it's the drumming that is letting the performances down. The drum lines are simplified, timing is off, and the intensity isn't there anymore.
This. It's really unfortunate. And we as Maiden fans were used to quality performances, always. It's tough. Ofc age plays a role, but in 2022 everything was fine in terms of performances, although the set was ''easier'' for Nicko. Some songs sound off now, but the overall performance is not
that bad.
I think because of what happened to him, Maiden are not in a hurry to record a new album, like they usually would have done (there's still plenty of time though). Plus they like touring more, more than ever now. Also, remember Steve mentioned the idea of semi-retirement and still releasing new music. I'm not sure at all, but I really hope his performances on a potential new album will be as solid as they are on SJ.
I agree. If Nicko were to step down after this tour they can probably squeeze out a few more tours. Steve and the guitarists sound fine, Bruce has good nights and bad nights but overall he sings about as well as you could reasonably expect from someone his age.
The problem is that I suspect there are people in the band who are ready to retire and Nicko is sticking around with the understanding that there is a definite end point to Maiden's touring career and he wants to be at the last show. If their future was more open ended, I suspect Nicko would have left the band by now.
On the other hand, there is clearly going to be at least one more mega nostalgia tour. Frankly I can't see Nicko hanging on even into 2025 at this rate. So I guess I'm ambivalent about it.
You may be onto something about their future, but I guess the next 2 years are already
booked with the new tour. Bruce said they have plans until then, so after that who knows what they'll do. They earned everything and has nothing to prove (especially Nicko), but they have said many times in the past that they are like family and won't replace anyone. Especially now. It
was a different case with a guitarist (remember what Steve said about Richie Faulkner). Nicko has said in the past that if he no longer can drive the band (which is not quite the case now), he wants the band to continue with another drummer. With a new drummer the band will sound better live, but as much as I love Maiden, I don't want them to replace anyone - and I doubt they want that either. I feel with the right amount of dates and breaks and with the right songs, it's going to be tough, but he can complete the next tour. He has to be part of the 50 years celebration, although the tour's theme could be different.