Over the course of two CDs, The Best of the Beast hits all of Iron Maiden's biggest hits, from "Run to the Hills" and "Wasted Years" to "Two Minutes to Midnight," "Aces High" and a live version of "Rime of the Ancient Mariner." In addition to the classic Maiden cuts, there are several rare tracks, including two unreleased songs from the Soundhouse Tapes, the unreleased "Strange World" and a new single called "Virus." The Best of the Beast works because Iron Maiden was always at its best on individual songs, despite their series of concept albums. This compilation gathers nearly all of their finest moments, providing an excellent introduction to one of the most popular and influential heavy metal bands of the early '80s.