Saturday, January 06, 2007

288. Dio / Evil Or Divine: Live In New York City. 2005. 5/5.

This is a fantastic live album from the Voice. Originally released on DVD (which is great) this CD showcases Dio in the new millenium.

The setlist is a variety of newer material from Killing The Dragon and Magica and the best from his glory days pre-1986, including his Black Sabbath and Rainbow days.

Dio's voice, though obviously not of the same strength and height from his Rainbow/Sabbath days of the 70's and 80's, is still just magnificent. How he can sing this well live is a mystery, but he is still the king. Simon Wright on drums and Jimmy Bain on bass are as great as ever, but the star here is the guitaring of Doug Aldrich. Though he has his own flourishes and style, what I admire most about him is his desire - and ability - to play all the solos as they were written and performed. He is a master at it, and I think it brings more power to him and his own performance.

This is a great live album - a better showcasing of the band than their previous Inferno - Last In Live - and well worth a listen or two.

Rating: We Rock! You Rock! 5/5.

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