Metal Monday: Magic Circle to Release Ronnie James Dio Tribute Album
posted in: Features
We all know that it has only been a month since Ronnie James Dio passed away, but this won’t stop some people from trying to put out Dio tribute albums. First up on the list (and most likely not the last) is Manowar’s record label Magic Circle.
The album, called Magic: A Tribute to Ronnie James Dio, includes host of Dio songs performed by artists on Magic Circle. At first glance, this might not seem like such a big deal, but there are quite a few details that make the whole situation a little bit confusing:
- Reports claims that David “Rock” Finkelstein (ex Elf guitarist and Dio’s cousin) is featured on the album but Finkelstein says this is completely untrue.
- The album was released in Germany before most people were even aware of its existence.
- There’s no word on whether or not that the proceeds will go to the Dio Cancer Fund or not.
- There are statements from the Manowar camp (specifically Manowar director Neil Johnson) to dispel the aformentioned “rumors.”
So, the question is, is it too soon? It’s hard to pinpoint Manowar’s intentions and figure out what’s going to happen with the record proceeds of, but let’s just hope the tribute is a good one. The jury is out for now. While you speculate, check out this footage of Dio and Joey from Manowar on stage in which Dio receives a lifelong achievement award: