GET ready to rock as the former frontman of Iron Maiden heads to the region.

Blaze Bayley will ignite a music event at a bikers' club as he brings his self-titled band to see Lincolnshire fans.

The Birmingham singer will perform as if it were a matter of life and death – and says he prefers smaller venues because large music arenas can be "very frustrating."

He said: "The band has its own record label, Blaze Bayley Recordings.

"In the past we've been told by record companies not to play 'that little gig', so now we do everything ourselves.

"The most important thing about our music is the fans and they enjoy seeing us in an intimate environment.

"We also sort out all our own merchandise which big arenas often make money out of.

"I see that as theft when they have nothing to do with the band.

"We have played in the area for the past two years and always get a great reaction."

Blaze, 47, was the lead singer of Iron Maiden, one of the biggest heavy metal bands in the world, from 1994 to 1999 following Bruce Dickinson's departure.

Bruce later returned to the band and Blaze left by mutual consent, but he says he is still on good terms with the other members.

He said: "Playing with Iron Maiden was absolutely crazy.

"Being in a band is like playing football, but I was in the premier league.

"Your absolute best is expected at every single show.

"I had a good reaction from the fans, many of whom also now come to see my band play.

"When I first auditioned, there were thousands wanting the job and I was already a big fan and knew the music really well.

"My time with the guys was fantastic, I learnt so much about music and recording."

Blaze's first album with Iron Maiden was The X Factor, released in 1995. He then went on to tour with them to support it.

Another Iron Maiden album with Blaze's vocals on was Virtual XI, released in 1998.

His band have recently released their second studio album, Promise And Terror, and members include Nico Bermudez and Jay Walsh on guitars and David Bermudez on bass.

"We're not about image or illusions, it's simply about the music," Blaze said.

"We're not about playing stadiums, I feel lucky to have already done that.

"The band has so much support and we are also putting out a live album soon and touring the world.

"I will be performing our songs along with some Iron Maiden covers at the gig and tracks we've never played live before.

"We hope everyone can come on Sunday to see us play."

Don't miss out

Blaze Bayley and his band will perform at the Yardbirds Rock Club in Church Street on Sunday from 8pm. Tickets are £6 and £8 on the door. The Mercy House and Signature 67 will also perform.