Final Frontier (song)
"Final Frontier" is a song by the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden, featured on their 2010 album The Final Frontier. The song serves as the opening track of the album and is one of Iron Maiden's longest songs, clocking in at over nine minutes.
Written by Steve Harris and Adrian Smith, "Final Frontier" is known for its progressive and atmospheric elements, deviating from the band's more traditional heavy metal sound in places. The song begins with a lengthy instrumental introduction featuring synthesizers and a slow, building tempo. This atmospheric section is followed by a more traditional Iron Maiden riff and Bruce Dickinson's vocals.
Lyrically, "Final Frontier" explores themes of exploration, the unknown, and pushing the boundaries of human experience, drawing parallels between space exploration and personal challenges. The song title and lyrical content are connected to the album's overall theme of venturing into uncharted territories, both literally and metaphorically.
"Final Frontier" has been a regular feature of Iron Maiden's live performances since its release, often opening concerts or appearing prominently in the setlist.