MOMM (61)

 

I only like Sabbath albums featuring Dio. It's been like that from the start. Dio is the epitome of a good vocalist. He didn't manipulate his voice to be impressionable. He's downright good. In fact, I enjoy all his outings in other bands & his live performances are simply incredible. Salute.

There are twelve years between Heaven & Hell & Dehumanizer. Dio remained ruthless in his vocal delivery. That's how good he was; no compromise in standards. I am slowly (but surely) acquiring albums that impacted my interest in music. These three here are definitely on the list. 

Osbourne: 22/7/2025

Ozzy Osbourne's passing (Wednesday, 22 July 2025) had a different impact on me simply because I'm not a fan. Just like I'm not a fan of Hendrix & Led Zeppelin among others. But I acknowledge the departure of a great individual who impacted a particular genre of music. When it comes to Black Sabbath, I prefer Dio on vocal duty. Do not wish to comment further as it might appear disrespectful to someone who's no longer here to defend himself.

Pics: NBC / Spotify

Gilbert's DIO

Looking forward to this - Paul Gilbert's instrumental Dio tribute album. I've not been keeping up with PG's solo releases since his inclinations to fuzzy tones & shedding his shredder image. Hope this one won't disappoint.

Pic: PG

Dio axes

Some of Dio's personal collection (music-related) are currently being auctioned off. Seen here is a customized Charvel.

A Gibson MM is on the list as well. No surprise which guitar is currently exceeding three times its asking price. It's down to the brand name & legacy. 

DIO

I'm currently in a Dio fix. Which metal vocalist out there possesses a formidable vocal range, relentless intensity & 100% commitment on record & live performances? I have to give it to Dio but sadly, the man took his vocal credentials with him upon his passing half a decade ago. I was listening to Black Sabbath in the bus & was thinking Osbourne's vocals were over-hyped. It was unique but to me it was blown out of proportions in terms of greatness. So the search for other Black Sabbath vocalists took effect & Dio was easily on top of the list (Tony Martin was a close second). I find this very inspiring; Dio had no vocal lessons. He grew up on a healthy serving of the opera; this was his so called institution of vocal control- carefully listening to how the range was manipulated. Add to this his trumpet-playing days which taught him vocal projection. Awesome!