Steve Harris Hails Iron Maiden’s ‘The X Factor’ and ‘Virtual XI’ as “Strong, Powerful Albums”

Steve Harris Hails Iron Maiden’s ‘The X Factor’ and ‘Virtual XI’ as “Strong, Powerful Albums”

 

Iron Maiden founder and bassist Steve Harris has recently revisited two of the band’s most divisive records, The X Factor (1995) and Virtual XI (1998), calling them “strong, powerful albums” that deserve more respect than they typically receive. These two albums, fronted by Blaze Bayley during Bruce Dickinson’s temporary departure, have long been the subject of debate among fans and critics alike. But Harris, ever the staunch defender of Maiden’s legacy, remains unapologetically proud of the material.

Speaking in a recent interview, Harris reflected on the turbulent mid-’90s period that led to The X Factor. “We were going through a lot as a band—personally and creatively—but that album came from a very real place,” he said. “It was darker, more introspective. Some people didn’t expect that from Maiden, but I think that’s what made it powerful. It wasn’t about trying to please everyone—it was about being honest.”

The X Factor marked a shift in tone for Iron Maiden. Gone were many of the galloping rhythms and soaring choruses that defined earlier records. Instead, the band leaned into a more brooding, atmospheric sound. Songs like “Sign of the Cross” and “The Edge of Darkness” tackled weighty themes, wrapped in complex arrangements and cinematic scope. Harris has often cited the writing on this album as some of his most personal and profound.

By the time Virtual XI arrived three years later, the band had refined their direction. While it continued in a similar vein, there were moments of melodic brilliance and progressive ambition. Tracks like “The Clansman” and “Futureal” have since become fan favorites—especially the former, which Bruce Dickinson later reintroduced to the live set. “I think Virtual XI had some really underrated songs,” Harris said. “It didn’t get the recognition it deserved at the time, but a lot of fans have come back around to it.”

Much of the criticism of these two albums has historically focused on Blaze Bayley’s vocal style, which was notably different from Dickinson’s operatic range. Harris, however, has always defended Bayley’s contributions. “Blaze gave everything he had. He brought a different tone and energy, and that helped shape the mood of those records. He was part of the family and a real trooper in tough times.”

Harris also noted how some of the songs from this era have been reevaluated in recent years. “When we play something like ‘Sign of the Cross’ now, the crowd reaction is massive. That tells you something. Good songs stand the test of time.”

While The X Factor and Virtual XI may never escape their place as Iron Maiden’s most polarizing albums, Steve Harris remains unwavering in his support. “They were strong, powerful albums in their own right,” he said. “They’re part of our journey, and I’m proud of what we achieved during that time.”

In the end, perhaps time is the ultimate judge—and, slowly but surely, it seems these albums are finally earning the recognition Harris always believed they deserved.