Review of Dio – Holy Diver
DIO – Holy Diver
The other day I was driving my car and listening to my favorite rock station when one of the all time classic metal songs came on. It was “Rainbow in the Dark” by Ronnie James Dio. It was at that moment I decided to make my choice to “Dust Off” my Holy Diver CD and give it another listen.The album starts off with some sizzling guitar work by Vivian Campbell on ”Stand up and Shout“. I remember reading that Ronnie wrote this song to help empower people. I think it works because this song used to be a favorite of my High School football team. We used it in our pregame rituals. Talk about getting jacked! What a way to start off an album.
The title track “Holy Diver” is one of those songs no matter how many times you listen to it, ya never get tired of it. In fact, it’s still so popular the band Killswitch Engage just covered it. They say that’s the best form of flattery. Have you ever bought an album and after listening to the first couple of songs that are being played on the radio, set it aside? Yeah, I’m guilty of this also. Well ya can’t do that with this one. The rest of the album is very solid. The next two songs “Gypsy” and “Caught In The Middle” are very pleasing to the ears and make you want more. The fifth song “Don’t Talk to Strangers” is probably my favorite. It starts out really slow and melodic and then simply cuts loose, it ROCKS.
“Straight Through The Heart“, “Invisible” and “Shame On The Night” really anchor the album. The drumming by Vinnie Appice and bass playing by Jimmie Bain make it a must listen to album.
Finally, the song “Rainbow In The Dark” was the album’s smash single. As I stated earlier, this song is one that still gets plenty of radio airtime. When Ronnie wrote this one he stated he was “preaching to the outcasts of society by offering words of encouragement in the face of their adversaries”. Well I don’t know about you but that sounds like a good message for all people, it’s timeless, just like the album.
Well there you have it, short and simple. I love this album! I’m glad I “Dusted It Off” and listened to it again. I am disappointed a little though because the stereo in my car won’t go any louder!
Holy Diver by DIO is available at the Rock Store
Brian, you always amaze me with your great reviews. You always make me want to listen to the bands you blog about. I will be sure to “dust off” my holy diver cd, and give it a listen.