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The end of a legend.
If you're a fan of Rock and Metal music, it's absolutely impossible not to know Ronnie James Dio. He lent his legendary voice to some of the most beautiful albums in music history (Rainbow Rising, Heaven & Hell, Holy Diver, and The Last In Line), collaborated with absolutely exceptional musicians, and left an indelible mark on all our hearts. His voice, at times sweet, harmonious, and clean, and other times rough and harsh, is perfectly recognizable at the first listen. In short... he is Ronnie James "Dio" in name and in fact. But, as with all good things, they unfortunately come to an end, and this Master Of The Moon, dating back to the now distant 2004, is the last album with his eponymous band. And unfortunately, sadly, it is almost a total disappointment. His voice is no longer what it was back in that distant "Rainbow in the Dark," his inspiration has noticeably waned over the years, and (not a less important factor) the much-missed Vivian Campbell is no longer on guitar. The entire record sounds tired, it lacks energy, and even the opener "One More for the Road" fails to inject the listener with the right dose of adrenaline, despite its very purpose. The musicians do their job without any particularly notable moments, and Craig Goldy seems almost disinterested and fails to impart the right dose of passion to the listener. Some interesting parts in the album do exist, and tracks like "The Man Who Would Be King" or "The Eyes" aren't bad at all, actually... but still, it's not enough to positively judge this platter that sounds drained and listless. However, this not entirely successful album doesn't tarnish Ronnie's legend in any way, nothing can. The worst part of this record is that it leaves a bitter taste in the mouths of all those who expected a worthy end for the former Elf, Rainbow, and Black Sabbath member's mythical career, a career full of masterpieces, immortal songs, and historic musicians. All this is impossible to forget.
Thank you, Ronnie, from the depths...
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