Dio concert review; Nov 27th, 1996 by Genady Perchenko

The following is a review of the first Dio show on the Angry Machines tour, originally mailed directly to me. Republished here with permission from the author. I had to edit the layout a little bit for better outlook on web, but all the information is still intact.

From: Genady Perchenko (genady@datacentersoftware.com)
Subject: Providence show.
Date: Mon, 02 Dec 1996 12:57:59 -0500

Hi there,

It was my second visit to the Strand in Providence for the same occasion, to see Ronnie James Dio. First time I saw him there in 1994. So I was constantly comparing one show to another. In both occasions show was delayed for some reason. It supposed to start at 8 p.m. However Mottorhead did not start until 9:30 or something like that.

I noticed significant improvements in Strand's security staff since the 1994. They had much more big security guys watching the crowd and there was a barrier on the flow making about 5 feet wide corridor between stage and the crowd filled with security people. So there was no chance at all to get on stage as apposed to the show in 1994 when RJD himself had to fight some guys trying to get on stage.

First was Mottorhead. I do not want to offend anybody but when I am going to see Dio, everything else become somewhat irrelevant. Besides I am not too familiar with Mottorhead so I will not judge.

Dio started with the same unbelievable initial punch as in 1994. I think that JM&THG is a great opening act The crowd wend obsoletely insane right in the fist second of the show. I've been very close to the stage. I noticed that RJD was slightly straggling with his voice during Straight Through The Heart and Holy Diver. But right after the drum solo problem seems to disappear and Ronnie's voice was crystal clear as always.

Everybody, band and people on the flow gave theirs 150% during the show. Ronnie did not have to ask to sing H&H with him. It seemed like Everybody in the house was singing along entire song. I just want to add that appearance RJD on stage creates some unexplainable magic.

Stage set was different this time. Vinny was surrounded by some structure of neon lights and color changing projectors.

My only disapointment was that there was no I and IM in the set witch I was really looking forward too.

After the show I've got a chance to speak with Tracy and Ronnie. It was absolutely incredible experience. Somebody asked Ronnie why Mistreated. Ronnie replied that this song was very close to his hard and he really wanted to do it live again. That was enough explanation for me.

Hopefully today the Worcester show will happen!!! I am looking forward to it!

Genady Perchenko