Although it was a Tuesday night, that did not stop the Heavy Metal fans of Toronto from making their way to History for a night of raw live music from none other than the Heavy Metal legend, Bruce Dickinson and his band who were joined by the excellent Crown Lands.
Bruce Dickinson – Crown Lands
History, Toronto – 16 September 2025
Words And Photography: Taylor Cameron
Although Iron Maiden have played Toronto many times over the years, Bruce Dickinson has not graced us with a solo show since 21 September 1997, 28 years ago. Touring in support of his latest solo release, The Mandrake Project, his first solo album in almost 2 decades, fans were ecstatic when he took the stage.
With passion and fury, Dickinson commanded the stage with an iron fist, the words “scream for me, Toronto” echoing throughout the venue. His vocal abilities have not faded, sounding just as good as he did in the ’80s. 
Although Iron Maiden tend to tour arenas and stadiums around the globe, Dickinson’s solo show graced the stage of the East End’s popular music venue, History, giving fans the opportunity to see the Metal legend in a more intimate setting. The set kicked off with Accident Of Birth, a track from the 1997 album of the same name. This had everyone chanting “welcome home” in the chorus, fists held high in the air. 
With one song in, we were now off to the races. The setlist included a variety of tracks from not only The Mandrake Project, but More Balls To Picasso, The Chemical Wedding and even a cover of Iron Maiden’s Flash Of The Blade from their 1984 release, Powerslave.
Dickinson and the band of hired guns helped him bring these songs to life, keeping the show interesting and intriguing from start to finish. Dickinson’s energy makes it hard to believe that he is 67, his stage presence still as captivating as ever. He is a true representation of what a frontman should be. 
Allowing for his band to show off their musical talents, they tackled the instrumental track, Frankenstein by The Edgar Winter Group. Everyone playing with their own style and flair, they made it their own while staying true to the roots of the song. Each band member brings something special to the table, or should I say, stage. It was a true highlight of the evening. 
Toronto’s Heavy Metal fans were out in full force to support one of Metal’s most beloved vocalists. The love for Dickson was visibly and audibly strong as “Bruce” could be heard chanted across the crowd, clad in Iron Maiden shirts and leather, in between songs. The energy of a Heavy Metal crowd is like no other, it is always special to be a part of. 
Closing out the night with The Tower, horns were held high in the air, the highest form of respect that can be shown at a show like this.
It was a truly incredible night of music that many, or all, did not want to end. This is a reminder to old fans and new, to get out and see these legendary performers take the stage while they still can. 
Crown Lands
Starting the night were Oshawa, Ontario Natives, Crown Lands. A duo consisting of drummer/lead vocalist Cody Bowles and guitarist/bassist/keyboardist Kevin Comeau.
The prog-rock influenced band has a mixture of a Rush meets Led Zeppelin vibe that captured everyone’s attention within seconds. Playing a set of all originals, their talents shone brightly.
Bowles handled lead vocals with ease while not missing a beat on the drums, his rhythmic flair utterly captivating. As soon as Comeau put on his double-neck that was half guitar, half bass, magic was in the air. Also handling keyboard duties, his playing did not stop.
Comeau helped make their sound feel large in multiple ways, adding to the essence of it all. Crown Lands are made for big stages. Their future in the music industry is definitely bright. 
