'The Beast is Unleashed Once More!'

On October 11th, Iron Maiden fans the world over rejoiced as the newly re-launched Restless Records released 'Numbers From The Beast: An All Star Salute to Iron Maiden', a tribute to the legendary band. The album, which features Maiden¹s own Paul Di'Anno and marks Restless' return to its metal and punk roots, is Produced by Grammy Award winner and tribute album pioneer Bob Kulick (KISS, Metallica, Aerosmith) along with Brett Chassen and features appearances from current or former members of Iron Maiden, KISS, AC/DC, Motörhead, Anthrax, Dio, Judas Priest, Testament, Twisted Sister, Extreme, Whitesnake, Slaughter, Helmet, Dokken and many others.

"It¹s a fitting salute to an awesome band and may be the best tribute I've ever produced. I really like what we¹ve done to these amazing songs, and more importantly, the band approves," says Kulick of the album.

'Numbers From The Beast' features 11 classic Iron Maiden tunes revamped in honor of the band¹s 25th anniversary.

Here's what Bob Kulick had to say about the project when he chatted recently to RYKO: How did the Iron Maiden Salute originally come together? "With the bands anniversary it seemed like the right time/also my knowing most of the artists who participated."

What was the process for choosing musicians for each track? "We used artists who either toured with, know the band or are big fans and are either hard rock or metal players / singers associated with the genre. These players know how to play in the spirit of the band."

How did you manage to coordinate these high profile musicians and get them working together? "We try to visualize these lineups and then go get them. Also this record took 11 months to make, so we can wait for the artists tour to end or for the artist to be here in L.A. to record."

Were artists together in the same room while the tracks were recorded? "When schedules allowed yes, otherwise they were done individually."

Were Nuno, Billy Sheehan and Vinne Appice together for the recording of "Aces High"? "No!"

Was there a wish list? and was there any inclusions that couldn't happen due to scheduling or contractual issues? "No wish list. We just go and get the best people we can. Ben Moody the Guitarist from Evanessence couldn't get label clearance."

Was it difficult to make a coherent album with such a diversive bunch of musicians? "Not really, it's the proper tool for the job approach-all these artists either toured with, know the band or are big fans and all are either hard rock or metal players / singers. (of the genre) These artists understand how to play in the spirit of the band."

Which of the musicians is the biggest Maiden fan? "Chris Jericho."

Who choose the songs? "We try to do the songs from the bands current setlist and songs that are from the "Greatest Hits" CD; i.e. kickass songs that these artists can do their thing to and have fun with."

How long has this project been in the making? "11 Months."