The unveiling of Bruce Dickinson‘s new solo single, “Afterglow Of Ragnarok”, coupled with the release of its official music video, undoubtedly marks a significant moment for the rock and metal community. The convergence of music and visual storytelling, as envisioned by Dickinson and Tony Lee in their graphic novel, brings a unique and immersive experience to fans.
The collaboration with director Ryan Mackfall adds a cinematic dimension to the narrative, while the original artwork by Staz Johnson promises a visually captivating journey. The synergy between these elements holds the promise of not just a musical endeavor but a holistic artistic expression.
The anticipation surrounding “The Mandrake Project,” Dickinson’s forthcoming solo album, is palpable. Scheduled for an early 2024 release via BMG, the album holds the promise of delivering a sonic tapestry woven with Dickinson’s distinctive vocal prowess and enriched by the thematic depth introduced in “Afterglow Of Ragnarok”.
“Afterglow Of Ragnarok” is a dramatic and epic track that introduces the world not just to the music of the album but to the compelling narrative that forms the basis of “The Mandrake Project”.
“It was important to set the tone of the project with this track,” Dickinson explained. “As befitting its title, it’s a heavy song and there’s a great big riff driving it… but there’s also a real melody in the chorus that displays the light and shade that the rest of the album brings… and just wait until you see the video!”
“The Mandrake Project” is a dark, adult story of power, abuse and a struggle for identity, set against the backdrop of scientific and occult genius. Created by Dickinson, scripted by Tony Lee and stunningly illustrated by Staz Johnson for Z2 Comics, the series features 12 episodes that collect into three graphic novels and will be launched in 2024.
An eight-page comic prequel to “The Mandrake Project”, titled “Afterglow Of Ragnarok”, is included within the vinyl seven-inch single booklet which accompanies the single of the same name and sets the scene for the story to come. The seven-inch single also features Dickinson’s original solo demo version of the song “If Eternity Should Fail”, which first appeared on IRON MAIDEN’s album “The Book Of Souls” in 2015.
