Derek Riggs is best known as the creator of Iron Maiden’s Eddie, probably the most enduring and best-loved mascot in heavy metal. Who could forget the astonishing intricacies of the ancient Egyptianthemed Powerslave sleeve? Or the gruesome gatefold that housed the Live After Death double album?
This book gathers together stunning quality reproductions of virtually everything Riggs did for Iron Maiden over the course of 27 frenetic years. Every single and album sleeve is represented in glorious detail alongside some of his lesser-known (but no less impressive) work for fan club Christmas cards, withdrawn and alternative sleeves, and some of his other, even more obscure endeavours for the likes of Budgie and Alvin Lee.
The sharp, concise text springs from many meetings with the reclusive Riggs, unravelling many of the interesting sub-plots regarding his much-publicised, yet often tenuous, relationship with Iron Maiden. It’s a fascinating insight into the mind of a true genius: an essential purchase not just for hardcore Maiden fans, but for anyone with more than a passing appreciation for classic sleeve art.
