Iron Maiden – Xcel Energy Center – St. Paul MN – October 16th 2024

Iron Maiden live at the Xcel Energy Center with special guests The Hu.

Review and photos by Kyle Hansen

On October 22, 2024, The Hu delivered a captivating performance at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota, opening for Iron Maiden. Their nine-song setlist featured tracks such as “The Gereg,” “Wolf Totem,” and “This Is Mongol.”

The Hu’s unique blend of traditional Mongolian instrumentation and metal, noting their ability to engage and energize the audience. Despite initial curiosity, the band managed to win over the crowd by the end of their set.

Iron Maiden electrified the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota, with their “The Future Past Tour.” The nearly two-hour performance showcased a blend of tracks from their 1986 album Somewhere in Time and their 2021 release Senjutsu, delighting both long-time fans and newcomers. The setlist featured songs like “Caught Somewhere in Time,” “The Time Machine,” and the fan-favorite “Alexander the Great.”

Despite being in their mid-60s to early 70s, the band members exhibited remarkable energy. Frontman Bruce Dickinson’s vocals remained powerful, and his dynamic stage presence was evident throughout the night. A poignant moment occurred when Dickinson led a tribute to former Iron Maiden vocalist Paul Di’Anno, who had passed away the previous day. He invited the audience to join in a moment of silence, honoring Di’Anno’s contributions to the band’s early years.

The concert was a visual and auditory spectacle, complete with the band’s iconic mascot, Eddie, making multiple appearances. The stage design and pyrotechnics enhanced the immersive experience, leaving the audience in awe. Approximately 10,000 fans attended, creating an atmosphere that felt both intimate and electrifying.