Ex-Iron Maiden Singer Blaze Bayley Rocks Edinburgh

As we walked into Bannerman’s Rock and Whisky Bar in the heart of Edinburgh last Friday night, we were greeted by a rather unexpected scene. British metal legend Blaze Bayley and his band were just sitting on some sofas near the bar, enjoying a few pre-gig pints while the place was slowly filling with metalheads dressed in the traditional denim and leather. I have been to many shows, but never have I seen the band hang out with fans before a show!

Blaze Bayley at Bannerman’s in Edinburgh


It was when we got to talk to the man himself that we fully realised how down to earth he really is. This singer and his (excellent) band aren’t in it for the glory and fame or for the money, but for their love and passion for metal music. This may seem like quite a cliché claim, but these guys back up their idealistic words with actions. They drive their own tour bus around, and don’t take any roadies along with them, so as to keep ticket prices as cheap as possible for fans (the gig in Edinburgh cost only £8!). They even release their music on their own record label to keep full control over their music and cut out the middleman between artist and listener.



Guitarist Nick Bermudez and drummer Larry Patterson of the Blaze Bayley band


The show itself was phenomenal, and one of the best I have seen recently. The opening band were a bunch of young Scottish lads calling themselves “Turbyne”. I had never heard of them before, but must admit that I was quite impressed, especially by the instrumental sections in their songs. They produced some truly crunchy riffs combined with dueling solos that were nicely reminiscent of oldschool metal.



The bassist David Bermudez


Blaze hit the stage at 9:15, and went on to perform for two hours before the passionate crowd of Edinburgh. They kicked off with the song “Madness and Sorrow” from the new album, and went on to play a great variety of songs from Blaze’s lengthy career. The new songs fit in perfectly with the rest of the setlist, and I would even argue that their live rendition of “City of Bones” was the best song of their whole set. Three songs from the Maiden era were also played, including Scottish favorite “The Clansman”, during which Blaze got the whole crowd to shout “Freedom!” in unison. Truly epic.


All in all a great night for music fans, and here’s to hoping that Blaze and his band will come back to Scotland soon!


Listen to our full interview with Blaze and his drummer Larry Patterson here


You can check out our review of Blaze Bayley’s new album here

- Dan & Pete from Rock O'Clock