Blabbermouth reported that Bruce Dickinson revealed his plans for a new solo album during a recent Instagram Live session with Z2 Comics.
“I was in a studio today, scoping out the studio where we are going to record the new album,” Dickinson said. “So that’s exciting.”
“Well, it’s 12 episodes, so these are four of them. And then there’s another four, and then there’s another four, and then we’re gonna have one giant book at the end,” he explained about The Mandrake Project book series. “There’s gonna be, of course, a sequel to ‘The Mandrake Project’, to the album, with THE HOUSE BAND OF HELL.”
Dickinson made the announcement while discussing the release of “The Mandrake Project: Year One” book. The publication collects the first four issues of the comic series accompanying his 2024 solo album.
This latest studio announcement marks another milestone in Dickinson’s recent return to solo work.
Loudwire highlighted that The Mandrake Project is Dickinson’s first solo album since 2005’s Tyranny of Souls. The record features Roy Z. on guitar and bass, Dave Moreno on drums, and Mistheria on keyboards.
V13 detailed the project’s expansion beyond music. The 12-part graphic novel series explores dark adult themes. It weaves together elements of power, abuse, and identity with science and the occult.
Loudwire revealed an interesting detail about the album’s creation. Dickinson wrote eight of the ten tracks a decade ago. This demonstrates his ability to create enduring music that remains relevant.
The upcoming North American tour in 2025 will feature new additions to the live performances. Swedish guitarist Philip Näslund and Swiss guitarist Chris Declercq will join the existing lineup. These changes reflect Dickinson’s commitment to evolving his solo project.
