DIO
House of Blues; Las Vegas;
11/16/02
Reviewed by Richard Fenkel
Ronnie James Dio and his band of veteran players invaded the HOB Las Vegas on Saturday, November 16. My friend James and I stood a few feet away from the holy soil (most people call it the stage). In fact, the floor at the HOB is the best location for any rock show.
Besides the great location, James and I had been talking about the Dio show with much anticipation and looking forward to hearing "Holy Diver" and "Heaven and Hell," both classic Dio-sung tunes which are played in regular rotation on a local Las Vegas radio station.
Finally the time arrived for Dio to take the stage. The famous vocalist who once sang for the Sabs, was about to prove again that he is one of the most charismatic singers of hard rock.
On to the stage, Dio and company started off the with the song "Killing The Dragon" from Dio's latest creation, entitled the same. Immediately the crowd went into a blistering frenzy. Screams and pumping fists emerged from the entire floor of HOB. Besides the loud crowd, Dio's vocals sounded loud and clear. Fans knew at this point it was going to be a night of classic Dio.
Throughout the evening, fans continued to throw the devil sign into the air, chanting lyrics like a religious experience. The Dio Elite Faithful were all over the floor singing along to the words of "Man On The Silver Mountain." At this point, there was no turning back. The concert was on and the energy was everywhere. The show was off the hook. Loud and bombastic, the way James and I like it. The way you like it.
Of course, loud does not always constitute talent. But this group of guys
complimented Dio's evil and fiery stage presence. Dio's musicians have great chemistry on stage. Fans were getting into the
band, watching and listening to talented group of guys.
In addition to the group's talent, Dio had a single mission: to perform a kick ass show. And he
delivered!!!!
Dio interacted with the fans pointing, smiling, and returning the famous Dio devil sign. Songs from the new album, "Killing The Dragon," - such as "Push" and "Rock and Roll" were all well received.
In addition to his new material, Dio and company performed the classics "The Last In Line," "Man on the Silver Mountain," "Rainbow In The Dark," and "We Rock" just to name a few.
Dio tunes are only as good as the musicians performing them. In the case of Dio's current lineup,
talent is all over the entire
stage. Bassist Jimmy Bain, drummer Simon Wright, keyboardist Scott Warren, and
guitarist Doug Aldrich were all on fire. Sounding like the tight knit band they
are. Aldrich has the image, guitar presence and ability to be Dio's go to guitarist. Fans
greatly enjoyed his guitar style. This guys is one excellent guitarist.
Needless to say, Dio rocks! Catch him on tour and pick up "Killing the Dragon."
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