Album Review: Various Artists - Ronnie James Dio - This Is Your Life

Here's the harsh fact – the vast majority of 'tribute' albums suck. Why? Because usually they're full of third rate acts running through tepid recreations of classic songs created by the bands they once hoped to be. It's very refreshing then that this project, designed to celebrate the long career of the mighty Ronnie James Dio (Elf, Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Dio), boasts such a stellar line-up. Anthrax, Metallica, Tenacious D, Rob Halford, Glenn Hughes and of course various members of Ronnie's own band (including Jimmy Bain and Vinny Appice) – all substantial artists in their own right, and even more importantly all proud to admit the influence the diminutive frontman had on their own careers.

With the exception of Halford and maybe Glenn Hughes, none of the vocalists on this record have Ronnie's pipes – but it doesn't make a difference because each offering still captures the joie de vivre that marked the RJD experience. Anthrax's muscular rendition of Neon Knights takes the track back to the streets, Tenacious D's The Last In Line matches their version of Heaven & Hell for humour and charm, while Motorhead's Starstruck (starring one Biff Byford) boasts a dirty swagger. That said, the album's absolute highlights come in Rob Halford's powerful take on Man On The Silver Mountain and Metallica's dark and intense Rainbow medley (thus repeating the success they had with the kickarse Mercyful Fate tribute) that encapsulates the likes of Kill The King and Stargazer. This is one compilation that deserves your hard-earned cash.