Heaven & Hell: Radio City Music Hall Live

Before his death from stomach cancer in 2010, singer Ronnie James Dio was enjoying a resurgence in popularity unmatched in modern heavy metal. Along with Judas Priest and Iron Maiden, Dio was crowned king of a musical format typically dismissed by the mainstream. A chance reunion with guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler, and drummer Vinny Appice (the four had played together as part of a post-Ozzy Osbourne Black Sabbath) eventually led to a tour. Taking their name from the 1980 first album the quartet recorded as Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell set out to show audiences that there was more to metal than devil horn hand signs and head banging. This 2007 concert from NYC's Radio City Music Hall finds the band serving up earlier tunes like "Lady Evil," "Die Young," and "Mob Rules," along with newer material such as "Shadow of the Wind" and "The Devil Cried" during the 15-song set. While his bandmates concentrate on their instruments, Dio runs around the stage, spry and more spirited than frontmen half his age. Virtuoso playing, deft showmanship, and an enthusiastic crowd make this a winning live experience—as well as a fitting testament to the talent of late great singer Dio. Presented in DTS-HD 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1, and LPCM stereo, Blu-ray extras include three behind-the-scenes featurettes and an interview with Dio. Highly recommended. (B. Gibron)