Steve Harris defends Iron Maiden's 1990 album No Prayer for the Dying

In a new interview with Metal Hammer, Iron Maiden bassist Steve Harris defended the band's 1990 release No Prayer for the Dying, an album that often appears near the bottom of ranking lists. Harris said the record was "really strong" and explained that the band was trying to return to basics after a period of grandiose shows. He noted that guitarist Janick Gers and vocalist Bruce Dickinson influenced the approach, with Dickinson’s solo album Tattooed Millionaire prompting a rougher vocal style.

Harris also described the album’s recording process, saying it was tracked in a barn using the Rolling Stones’ mobile studio to capture a live‑album feel, and that adding audience noise could have enhanced that effect. He expressed confidence that criticism only strengthens his belief in the work.