MUSIC DVD OF THE WEEK
Filmed at London’s famous Hammersmith Apollo on December 12, 1993, this never-before-released film captures the behemoth live performance of Dio’sStrange Highwaysalbum on the last night of their European tour.
More importantly, it commemorates the 40-plus-year career of the pint-sized grand wizard of metal, Ronnie James Dio, who passed away four years ago to the day of this DVD release. His notoriety as one of the biggest pioneers and vocal technicians in the history of heavy metal is unsurpassed.
The concert features a heady brew of tracks from Strange Highways and quintessential Dio classics from Ronnie’s stellar career with Black Sabbath and Rainbow: ‘Heaven And Hell’, ‘Mob Rules’, ‘Children Of The Sea’, ‘Man On The Silver Mountain’ and more. The lineup boasts some of metal’s biggest kahunas – drumming legend Vinny Appice, ex-Dokken bassist Jeff Pilson and the phenomenal guitar work of Tracy G. Ronnie’s poetic lyrics and rip-roaring vocal energy soar throughout and create a great sense of passion and drama.
As Ronnie quips, “This is probably the best band we’ve ever had … it’s just fun with these guys.” As a performance, it harnesses the hellacious goodness of Dio and shows why they’ve permeated the hearts of generations.
4/5.
DIO: Live In London is out now through Shock/ Screen Pop.
