Loopyworld: The Iron Maiden Years by Steve ‘Loopy’ Newhouse review

Warts-’n’-all diaries of a Maiden roadie

Cover art for Loopyworld: The Iron Maiden Years by Steve ‘Loopy’ Newhouse

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Loopyworld is the story of Iron Maiden’s earliest years through the eyes of a crew member from 1978 to 1984 – notwithstanding a couple of sackings.

The best friend of Paul Taylor, the singer who eventually changed his surname to Di’Anno “due to an Italian background”, the author rarely toes the party line, quipping;“this was news to me, though Paul ma y have enjoye d a pizza once or twice. ”

As the band’ s authority figure, manager Rod Smallwood is branded “an arrogant piece of shit” with an “irritating Northern accent”, building towards use of the word “hate”. Newhouse also alleges that Maiden “used” guitarist Dennis Stratton “for his experience and knowledge, and then fired [him]”.

This is strong, opinionated stuff and it would be easy to brand Newhouse as bitter, but for all of the controversial tone of his reminiscences they are voiced with affection and pride.

Dave Ling

Dave Ling was a co-founder of Classic Rock magazine. His words have appeared in a variety of music publications, including RAW, Kerrang!, Metal Hammer, Prog, Rock Candy, Fireworks and Sounds. Dave’s life was shaped in 1974 through the purchase of a copy of Sweet’s album ‘Sweet Fanny Adams’, along with early gig experiences from Status Quo, Rush, Iron Maiden, AC/DC, Yes and Queen. As a lifelong season ticket holder of Crystal Palace FC, he is completely incapable of uttering the word ‘Br***ton’.