Universal (2CD)
Fourth album from legendary classic metal band fronted by Ronnie James Dio, originally released in 1987, and what a classic it is. Featuring the studio debut of guitarist Craig Goldy, the album sadly gets overlooked which is a shame because this album is magic beginning to end. And Goldy at times provides some blistering to the shred album which fits in well.
The Sabbath-esque Night People opens, grinding power and solid rhythms. The slightly more melodic title track follows, Claude Schnell’s keyboards adding an atmospheric touch. All The Fools Sailed Away is a slower track delivered with a lot of power and passion, and there are decent keyboard and guitar breaks in the middle.
Dio’s voice (power and range) is perfect throughout, and the power from Jimmy Bain and Vinny Appice works well. The single I Could Have Been A Dreamer is another memorable track with good guitar / keyboard interplay.
A classic album that sounds as good today as it then.
Onto disc two and the bulk of the extra tracks are the 1987 Donnington performance. A strange choice, not that they aren’t relevant or brilliant, they are, it’s that this set was released only couple of years ago. That said, band sound great and down well, covering tracks by Dio, Black Sabbath and Rainbow. Riffs and solos aplenty it’s a great show, but I’d imagine it will already be owned by those buying this album. If not, it just makes this set even more essential.
*****
Joe Geesin
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
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Power Plays w/c 21 April 2025
THE DEVIL WEARS NADA Late Night Talking (Eonian Records)
DROWNING POOL Madness (SBG Records)
PARKER BARROW Make It (indie)
REDIKIN Nailed It (Wormholedeath)
PENNY FOUNTAIN Euphoria (indie)
CRY FOR MERCY Saving Grace (indie)
VIGILANTES Life In The Fast Brain (indie)
Featured Albums w/c 21 April 2025
09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2024 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2024 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2024 (Singer Songwriter)
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