Guitarist Luke Appleton joins Blaze Bayley’s band

Guitarist Luke Appleton joins Blaze Bayley’s band

The final member of the group Absolva that wasn’t part of former Iron Maiden frontman Blaze Bayley‘s backing band has joined the fold as guitarist Luke Appleton has joined his brother / lead guitarist Chris Appleton, bassist Karl Schramm and drummer Martin McNee in Bayley‘s solo band. About two and a half months ago, Luke Appleton left the heavy metal band Iced Earth after nine years and just as the group’s leader Jon Schaffer was arrested for his role in the riot at the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. back on January 6, 2021.

The following message was posted in part on Bayley‘s Facebook page earlier today:

“Many of you will know Luke from our Iron Maiden 25th Anniversary performances, and also from Absolva. We’re now delighted to announce that he is to fully join our ranks on guitar.

Blaze explains “I am very excited to have the magnificent talent of Luke Appleton added to my touring band. He is in the the role of power guitarist. The first thing we tried with the new line-up was the live stream from KK Downing’s venue (KK’s Steel Mill) and it felt outrageously good! Can’t wait for my fans to see and hear the new line-up playing live. This is turning into an amazing year. Congratulations Luke! Welcome to the Blaze Bayley team of metal warriors!”

Luke responds “I have worked with Blaze on numerous projects over the last 11 years and I am very proud to now be a full-time touring member of the Blaze Bayley band. I believe the sound that my brother Chris and I will create is going to be very big with the two guitars! Thank you Blaze. I look forward to our summer festivals and our UK tour towards the end of 2021!””