THE world’s longest running and only Iron Maiden tribute band officially endorsed by the mighty metal giants themselves, Hi On Maiden return to The Wharf tonight (June 2).

They have firmly established themselves as the most recognised and popular tribute band to Iron Maiden.

Kicking off from the start with a powerful and dynamic performance, the band put on the most accurate and explosive Iron Maiden tribute experience anywhere, having grabbed the attention of Maiden fans all over the world, as well as the Maiden boys themselves!

Hi-On Maiden play all the classics, such as Number of the Beast, Run to the Hills, Iron Maiden and Hallowed be thy Name up to more modern classics such as Wicker Man and Blood Brothers, plus songs from the new Book of Souls album.

Ellie Hudson had a quiet catch up with the band whilst they were on tour.

When did Hi On Maiden form and where are you from?

Formed in 1995, although no original members remain, we come from all over country, West Yorkshire, London, Suffolk and Nottingham.

Is being in the band pretty much a full time job?

No we all have full time jobs and it’s our fun and pleasure to play Maiden songs to fans. 

You’re regularly described as as closest to the original as it’s possible to get, how much effort went into creating the Maiden sound and look?

We put a lot of effort in to replicating the look, the correct guitars, backdrops etc. But it’s all to give the fans a more lifelike Maiden experience. 

You’ve met and played with the original band too, tell us a bit more about that?

Members of Maiden have been known to join the band on stage, and on occasion swap actual instruments. 

Gaining the respect around the world from Iron Maiden fans must be quite  rewarding. Do you get to play fan club conventions?

We have done in the past and are looking to play to the Fan club real soon.

What album material goes down best at gigs?

Obviously the classic albums/songs go down great but the new material works really well too.

There must be some rock and roll Spinal Tap moments?

No major spinal tap moments. Few falls off stage, few intros played incorrectly and one guitarist who unfortunately cut the end of his finger off. But it’s okay now, as he is back playing and can play at least 75% of the notes.

What can the Wharf audience expect from the band this time?

Fans can expect a great maiden experience and this year a few songs the real Maiden very rarely/have never played.