Rock & Metal's Hidden Gems
Join us as we dive deep into the world of rock and metal — exploring the legends, their stories, and the albums that shaped generations. But we don’t stop at the hits. Each episode uncovers the hidden gems — those overlooked tracks that deserve way more love from the rock and metal community.
We’ll also shine a spotlight on underrated artists who are the hidden gems, bringing their music the attention it deserves.
Whether you’re a lifelong headbanger or just a lover of great music, this is the podcast that celebrates the heart, soul, and raw power of rock and metal.
Rock & Metal's Hidden Gems
Iron Maiden - Episode 5
In this episode of Rock and Metal’s Hidden Gems, our Iron Maiden journey enters a bold new chapter — the Blaze Bayley era. We take a fresh, open-minded look at the dark introspection of The X Factor and the forward-looking ambition of Virtual XI, two albums that reveal a distinct and often overlooked side of Maiden’s creative evolution.
We dig into the tracks that showcase what Blaze brought to the band and the unique musical direction Maiden explored during this period — songs many casual listeners may have missed, and most importantly, deep dive into the hidden gems waiting to be rediscovered. Along the way, we examine the stories behind the music, the shift in tone and sound, and how this era connects to the larger arc of Iron Maiden’s legacy.
So plug in and join us as we revisit these albums with curiosity, appreciation, and a keen ear for the hidden gems that define the Blaze Bayley years.