Top Six Songs from Blaze Bayley’s Era with Iron Maiden

What are Iron Maiden’s best songs from the Blaze Bayley era?

The era that brought us The X Factor and Virtual XI is often remembered with mixed feelings. Despite not being a fan-favorite period, it shouldn’t be overlooked, nor should Bruce Dickinson’s successor, Blaze Bayley, be blamed for any perceived shortcomings. The band’s creative direction during this era was largely influenced by Steve Harris, the band’s founder and creative lead, who was navigating some tough personal times. The metal scene was changing, with new commercial rock trends overshadowing ’80s acts, and Harris had to manage another personnel change following Adrian Smith’s 1990 departure.

Bayley’s vocal style was a significant shift from Dickinson’s operatic range. His deeper voice, effective over uptempo songs, was evident from his former band Wolfsbane. While Virtual XI upped the tempo, it suffered from a heavy-handed influence from The Who, which didn’t quite fit. Nevertheless, Bayley contributed well where his name appeared in the writing credits, proving his versatility as a singer, especially on the epic tracks where he showcased an impressive range.

Below are six of the best songs from the Blaze Bayley era of Iron Maiden.

“Futureal” (Virtual XI)

Writing Credits: Steve Harris, Blaze Bayley

Clocking in at just under 3 minutes, “Futureal” opens Virtual XI with an electrifying energy. Reminiscent of the hard-charging tracks from Killers, it highlights Bayley’s strong compatibility with the band’s high-energy style.

“Judgement Day” (The X Factor / Best of the B-Sides)

Writing Credits: Blaze Bayley / Janick Gers

Although it appeared as a B-side to “Man on the Edge” and not on the main album, “Judgement Day” is a fast-paced contrast to the slower tempos that dominate The X Factor. Bayley co-wrote this track with guitarist Janick Gers, making it a hidden gem worth a listen.

“The Sign of the Cross” (The X Factor)

Writing credits: Steve Harris

“The Sign of the Cross” is another epic track from the Blaze Bayley era. Opening The X Factor, its moodiness stands out in Maiden’s catalog. Gregorian chants and a delicate drum march build to an eight-minute cinematic arc inspired by Umberto Eco’s 1980 novel The Name of the Rose.

The track has been performed live over 200 times with Bruce Dickinson, showcasing its lasting significance.

“Judgement of Heaven” (The X Factor)

Writing Credits: Steve Harris

Among the literary and historical themes often present in Iron Maiden’s lyrics, “Judgement of Heaven” is notably personal. Steve Harris addresses themes of depression and suicidal ideation amid a changing musical landscape and personal struggles, including a divorce and lineup changes.

The song’s urgency is tempered by hopeful moments, reflecting Harris’ state of mind during a difficult period.

“Man on the Edge” (The X Factor)

Writing Credits: Blaze Bayley / Janick Gers

The first single with Blaze Bayley, “Man on the Edge” was co-written with Janick Gers. Inspired by the 1993 movie Falling Down, it features an opening melody reminiscent of “The Evil That Men Do” and a memorable chorus. Though it initially set high expectations for The X Factor, the album’s overall direction diverged from the track’s energetic preview.

“The Clansman” (Virtual XI)

Writing Credits: Steve Harris

The unquestioned fan-favorite of the Bayley era, “The Clansman” stands as a classic Maiden song. Inspired by the movie Braveheart, it resonates with the resilience Steve Harris demonstrated in keeping the band going against the odds.

Despite critiques of the Bayley era sounding distant from traditional Iron Maiden, “The Clansman” is a quintessential track that proves Bayley’s voice could carve its legacy within the band.

Source: Loudwire