Iron Maiden’s Somewhere in Time is getting a suitably futuristic 40th anniversary celebration courtesy of comics publisher Z2, which is teaming with the metal legends on Somewhere in Time: The Graphic Album. The project is a new anthology that expands the science fiction universe of the band’s classic 1986 album through eight stories inspired by its eight individual tracks.
The collection assembles a formidable roster of comics and film talent, including Steve Niles, Goran Parlov, David Dastmalchian, Corin Hardy, Leah Moore, Vincent Locke and Davide Fabbri. Comic book luminary Bill Sienkiewicz, who has also collaborated with Iron Maiden frontman Bruce Dickinson, contributes the introduction. The book is framed by a prologue and epilogue focused on Eddie, the band’s iconic mascot, written by Kelly Sue DeConnick and illustrated by Andy MacDonald. The stories explore what might have happened in the moments leading up to the creation of the album’s memorable cover image.
“It’s just a great version of Eddie. My favorite version of Eddie probably,” guitarist Adrian Smith says of the Somewhere in Time incarnation of the character. “There’s a real power there — a genuine power and menace.” Smith also participates in an in-depth interview with Phantom’s Dave Shack, reflecting on the writing and recording of the album and the staying power of its songs.
Z2 has, naturally, made the release a collector’s proposition. Deluxe and Platinum editions arrive in a metallic Time Machine slipcase with a die-cut green acetate targeting lens, featuring cover art by Blake Armstrong. The editions also include art prints of four covers, with additional retailer-exclusive versions by Tony Harris, Jay Geldhof and Dan Mumford. The Platinum edition adds four framed Eddie cards by Fabbri and a bookplate signed by Smith. Both Deluxe and Platinum editions also come packaged with rare 7-inch vinyl singles of “Wasted Years” and “Stranger in a Strange Land.”
The project extends a relationship between the Maiden world and Z2 that began with 2023’s Piece of Mind art book and anthology, commemorating that album’s concurrent 40th anniversary. Dickinson has also teamed with the company on several publications related to his The Mandrake Project solo album. Z2’s other recent volumes have highlighted musicians such as Johnny Cash, Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready and beloved punk band Descendents.
Maiden will be back on the road in spring 2027 for North American arena and amphitheater dates, beginning April 14 in Tacoma, Wa. The group will also co-headline the Sonic Temple and Boardwalk Rock festivals in May.
