Maybe it became a hit in 1987, but it was released in the 'Goodbye Yellow Brick Road' album in 1973. But surely it must've been a hit before 1987..hmm..
Black album isn't so much different from AJFA. If the black album didn't sell so well, I bet you would've said 5 good albums. S&M was excellent also.
I don't intend on comparing Metallica with Maiden, they're both great.
At least they don't release live albums after live albums and compilations after compilations. Honestly, fuck, Death on the Road isn't even half special.