On August 30, 2004, in Europe and September 7, 2004, in the U.S., "Dio" released their 10th studio album "Master of the Moon".
This is the final studio album from "Dio". Produced by Ronnie James Dio, this release marks a return to familiar territory with guitarist Craig Goldy, who previously played on "Dream Evil" from 1987 and "Magica" (2000) and bass player Jeff Pilson ("Dokken", "Foreigner") who previously played on "Strange Highways" and "Angry Machines". The lineup also features drummer Simon Wright almost a permanent member who has been replacing Vinny Appice in the years 1989–1991, and then from 1998 on, and keyboardist Scott Warren who has been in the band since 1993.
Musically, "Master of the Moon" leans into the doom-metal, mid-tempo grooves that became "Dio’s" trademark in later years. Compared to the more aggressive "Killing the Dragon" from 2002, this album adopts a slower, darker tone, full of brooding riffs and atmospheric arrangements. Goldy’s return brings a welcome familiarity to the guitar work, though the solos and riffs often feel more restrained, serving the songs without overpowering them. Jeff Pilson's bass provides a sturdy foundation, and Simon Wright's drumming is tight and precise, even if it doesn’t break much new ground.
The opening track "One More for the Road" is a fast-paced heavy metal "Dio" familiar tune, but it doesn't hint at what comes next. The title track, "Master of the Moon," follows with a slow-mystic, foreboding atmosphere, setting the tone with Ronnie James Dio’s powerful, operatic vocals and Goldy’s heavy, deliberate riffing. "The End of the World" carries a sinister, apocalyptic theme and one of the catchiest grooves on the album. "Shivers" features some of Goldy’s best riff work, harkening back to the more energetic rock feel of "Dio’s" earlier efforts, but the main riff reminds us of "Metallica's" "For Whom The Bells Tolls", and the pre-choros melody is a bit reminiscent of "Hungry For Heaven" from the "Sacred Heart" Album.
One of the standout tracks, "Death by Love," was co-written by Chuck Garric, a former touring bassist from the "Magica" era. Its driving tempo and melodic hooks give it a hard-hitting edge that contrasts with the album's darker material. The Japanese edition of the album also includes the bonus track "The Prisoner of Paradise," offering a rare addition for die-hard fans.
(Photo: alchetron.com)
Lyrically, Dio delves into some of his most cynical and politically charged material to date. In interviews, he remarked that many of the lyrics reflect "the dangers we face almost every day in modern life," adding a timely, socially conscious layer to his usual mystical and mythical storytelling. Tracks like "Living the Lie" and "The Eyes" explore themes of deception, surveillance, and control, while "The Man Who Would Be King" takes a look at the destructive nature of unchecked power.
Supporting "Master of the Moon", Dio delivered setlists that spanned his entire career, including classics from his "Rainbow" and "Black Sabbath" years. However, due to prior commitments, Jeff Pilson couldn’t join the tour, and Rudy Sarzo stepped in to handle bass duties on the road.
While "Master of the Moon" doesn’t quite reach the iconic heights of "Dio’s" earlier works like "Holy Diver" or "The Last In Line", it remains a respectable swan song. The album is steeped in the same mysticism, operatic flair, and dark themes that defined "Dio's" career. However, some songs do fall into a repetitive structure, and the slower pace may not resonate with all fans. Nonetheless, Ronnie James Dio’s vocal prowess and the return of Craig Goldy bring a sense of closure to this final chapter.
For Listening: Spotify, Apple Music
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