Iron Maiden Unleashed Airborne Fury with a Blazing “Aces High” in Budapest 2025
On May 28, 2025, Iron Maiden delivered a monumental performance at Budapest’s Papp László Sportaréna, marking the second night of their “Run For Your Lives” World Tour. This highly anticipated tour celebrates the band’s 50th anniversary, focusing on the powerful early era of their music, specifically the first nine studio albums that defined their legacy.
The Budapest show was especially memorable as it introduced Simon Dawson, stepping in as the touring drummer after Nicko McBrain’s retirement. Fans were naturally skeptical at first, but Dawson’s performance quickly silenced doubts. His powerful and precise drumming meshed seamlessly with the band’s dynamic sound, showing Iron Maiden remains as formidable as ever.
They opened the night with a trio of hard-hitting tracks from the “Killers” album: “Murders in the Rue Morgue,” “Wrathchild,” and “Killers.” These songs hadn’t been played live in years, and their return brought a nostalgic roar from the crowd. It was a nod to their raw beginnings, delivered with thunderous precision.
Next came “Phantom of the Opera,” one of the band’s most ambitious early songs. This track, with its progressive structure and shifting rhythms, highlighted the band’s technical prowess. Bruce Dickinson’s vocals soared across the arena, capturing the same energy that turned the song into a fan favorite over four decades ago.
When the opening notes of “The Number of the Beast” rang out, the entire arena erupted. The song remains one of the most iconic in heavy metal history, and its message and energy still resonate today. The band played with such cohesion and intensity that it felt like they were back in their prime years.
The crowd was then taken on a mystical journey with “The Clairvoyant” and “Powerslave.” These tracks showcased Maiden’s ability to blend storytelling with powerful instrumentation. The stage visuals added to the experience, with imagery inspired by ancient mythology and mysticism perfectly amplifying the songs’ narratives.
A true highlight of the night was the return of “Rime of the Ancient Mariner,” a 13-minute epic that hadn’t been performed live since 2009. Its haunting midsection, explosive crescendos, and poetic lyrics held the audience in rapt attention. It was a perfect example of how Maiden bridges classic literature and heavy metal like no other band.
The setlist charged forward with crowd favorites “Run to the Hills” and “Seventh Son of a Seventh Son.” These songs brought the energy back to full blast, with the audience singing every word. The sheer joy and connection between the band and their fans made the arena feel electric and intimate all at once.
To wrap up the main set, they unleashed a devastating trio: “The Trooper,” “Hallowed Be Thy Name,” and “Iron Maiden.” Each performance was delivered with theatrical flair, including signature stage props and the appearance of their iconic mascot Eddie. These staples served as a powerful reminder of their enduring stage presence.
The encore started with the stirring sound of “Churchill’s Speech,” which set the tone for “Aces High.” The patriotic, war-themed anthem had the crowd chanting along from the first note. Following that, “Fear of the Dark” lit up the arena with a sea of waving hands, and “Wasted Years” closed the night on a heartfelt, introspective note.
Beyond the setlist, what stood out was the atmosphere the band created. Fans were encouraged to enjoy the show phone-free, allowing everyone to live in the moment. It gave the performance a rare feeling of intimacy and connection—something increasingly uncommon in the age of constant digital capture.
This Budapest show marked not just a celebration of Iron Maiden’s rich history, but also their evolution. Introducing a new drummer, reviving long-unplayed tracks, and modernizing their visuals while staying true to their roots proved they are still growing. Few bands reach 50 years and continue to push creative boundaries like Maiden.
The European leg of the “Run For Your Lives” Tour is proving to be one of their most ambitious yet. Every night features surprises, deep cuts, and epic visuals that span the band’s vast catalog. It’s not just a nostalgia act—Iron Maiden is actively shaping the next chapter of their story with every show.
Each stop on this anniversary tour feels like a living time capsule. They’re revisiting the anthems that made them legends, while subtly infusing the set with new energy. Bruce Dickinson’s voice, Dave Murray’s solos, Steve Harris’s galloping bass—all still sound sharp, driven, and passionate as ever.
For fans who couldn’t make it, the video recaps and fan-shot footage show glimpses of what they missed—but nothing compares to the real thing. What Iron Maiden delivered in Budapest wasn’t just a show, it was a celebration of five decades of defiance, metal, and unity. They’re not winding down—they’re charging forward.
