Dance of Death Drum Setup: Nicko McBrain's Gear on Iron Maiden's 2003 Gothic Epic | MetalForge
The complete gear breakdown for Iron Maiden's Dance of Death (2003). Discover the Premier Artist kit, Paiste Signature cymbals, and single bass drum techniqu...
Frequently Asked Questions
What drums does Nicko McBrain use on Dance of Death?
Nicko McBrain recorded Dance of Death (2003) on a Premier Artist kit — the same professional setup he used on Brave New World. The configuration featured a single 22-inch bass drum, three rack toms (10, 12, and 13 inch), and two floor toms (16 and 18 inch), with birch/basswood shells delivering a punchy, focused tone suited to Kevin Shirley's powerful production at Sarm West Studios. For Nicko's complete gear history across his Iron Maiden career, see the [Nicko McBrain drummer profile](/drummer/nicko-mcbrain).
Where did Dance of Death chart?
Dance of Death debuted at number two on the UK Albums Chart and reached number 19 on the US Billboard 200 upon its release in September 2003. The chart performance confirmed that Iron Maiden's reunion-era momentum, established with Brave New World (2000), was sustained rather than a one-off. The single 'Rainmaker' reached the UK Top 20, helping drive the album's commercial profile.
What is Dance of Death's most notable track for drumming?
'Paschendale,' an eight-minute epic about the WWI Battle of Passchendaele, is widely regarded as Dance of Death's drumming centerpiece. Nicko McBrain navigates the track's many distinct sections — a hushed, marching intro, a dramatic mid-song build, and a crushing double-time climax — all powered by his single bass drum pedal. The track is frequently cited by fans and critics as among Iron Maiden's finest 21st-century compositions. See the [Brave New World drum setup article](/articles/brave-new-world-drum-setup) for the preceding album in the arc.
Was Iron Maiden still active as a full reunion band on Dance of Death?
Yes — Dance of Death (2003) was the second studio album from the reunited classic Iron Maiden lineup of Bruce Dickinson, Adrian Smith, Dave Murray, Janick Gers, Steve Harris, and Nicko McBrain, following Brave New World (2000). The album confirmed the reunion's staying power and pushed the band toward longer, more ambitious song structures that would culminate in the concept album [A Matter of Life and Death (2006)](/articles/a-matter-of-life-and-death-drum-setup).