The Classic Metal Album Reviews:
Title: Holy Diver
Artist: Dio
Label: Warner Bros.
Release Date: 1983

Rating: 4 Skulls
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    • Reviewed by Solomon:
    Ronnie James Dio is one of the most revered vocalists in the history of hard rock, and has explored his talents in groups ranging from Elf, to Rainbow, to Black Sabbath over the course of several decades. Whereas many metal meisters use some sort of combination of yelling, screaming, grunting, et cetera to get the point across, Mr. Dio is actually a singer. Holy Diver was Dio's first solo record after leaving Black Sabbath and is a prime example of good, traditional, straightforward heavy metal. There are few ornaments here: drums, bass, voice and guitar with some keyboards and weird effects thrown in for good measure. Obviously, Dio's voice is the prime mover here, and classics like "Don't Talk To Strangers" and "Caught In The Middle" are a testament to his talent. I'd have to say these songs, along with "Holy Diver," are my favorites on this record. Now, you also can't forget the awesome pyrotechnics of guitarist Vivian Campbell. The guitar solos here have big balls and sharp teeth, like in "Straight Through The Heart," the title track, and the outro to "Invisible." The main man's Sabbath/NWOBHM past is certainly not forgotten. Take, for example, the use of the immortal "gallop" rhythm in "Holy Diver" and "Straight Through The Heart," but this album still has "Dio" written all over it. Listen and learn.
    4 out of 5

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