At first glance, the new Iron Maiden album reads like an epitaph. But the British heavy metal giants are very much alive, kicking, and rocking out.

When their latest album, Final Frontier, was announced many began to worry that this would be the last we’d hear of Iron Maiden. Lyrics in the opening number seem to signal a farewell: “I have lived my life to the full / I have no regrets / But I wish I could talk to my family / To tell them one last goodbye.”

Thankfully, the album is set on an expanding frontier, not a terminal one. Final Frontier satisfies with the usual Maiden blend of driving, layered performances and powerful lyrics, and still pushes forward as a modern album. Contemporary topics such as consumerism and the media are explored in fantastical, historical, and supernatural allegories. The guitar riffs and solos are edgier than we’re used to, and the experiment pays off.

Final Frontier is a solid entry in an already impressive Maiden catalogue. It’s definitely worthy of multiple listens and head-banging sessions. Highlights include the electrifying single “El Dorado,” the anthemic “Coming Home,” and, of course, “When the Wild Wind Blows”-an instant Maiden classic,. The monumental final song runs 11 minutes, but in typical Maiden fashion, leaves you wanting much more.