Bearing the title of special guest, Ronnie James Dio brings with him writing partner Jimmy Bain (bass); new addition Doug Aldrich (guitar); Simon Wright (drums); and Scott Maxwell (keyboards).  As he opened the show for the co-headliners Deep Purple and the Scorpions, Dio introduced his band with the powerful title track from his latest release “Killing the Dragon,” as an ominous and lifelike backdrop of the album cover lurked in the shadows.  Soon they recalled classics like “Egypt (The Chains Are On)” from the Last in Line and Sabbath’s “Children of The Sea,” as the front of the amphitheater filled with chanting first yielding disciples.

Also showcased from Killing the Dragon (Spitfire Records) were DIO’s new single and video release “Push,” and latest anthem “Rock-n-Roll,” which was passionately written after rock and metal songs were banned following the events of September 11. 

Of course, fans were invited to “Stand up and Shout” for the “Man on the Silver Mountain” as he performed “Long Live Rock-n-Roll,” “Holy Diver,” and another Black Sabbath classic “Heaven and Hell.”  In addition, Doug Aldrich and Simon Wright were given the opportunity to showcase their talents during guitar and drum solos, and the band appropriately encored with the “Last in Line.”  Fans wondering about the exclusion of “Rainbow in the Dark” will be happy to know that it was included the next day in Columbus, but unfortunately due to time constraints, there is only room for a one-song encore on this tour.

This Pittsburgh performance was just a reminder that the strong, powerful, and memorable voice of Ronnie James Dio has echoed the halls of arenas, theaters, and amphitheaters for decades.  From his reign with Rainbow and Black Sabbath to his solo career as DIO his history can not be ignored, but living the life of a rock musician and still keeping that voice in top form today, we figured there must be a few secrets behind keeping those roaring vocals at their best…and surprisingly he was willing unlock them.

.
Click here to search our catalog

e-mail us ( music@tprs.com ) for availability.