There are some things in rock-n-roll that exist solely because of [lastfm]Ronnie James Dio[/lastfm]‘s influence. If the demon-rocker hadn’t chanted incantations and channeled wizardry, would guitarist draw flames from their amplifiers? Would demons dance and serpents twirl?  Would gargoyles and dragons fight the holy fight? No, they wouldn’t. Dio, your body may be gone, but your music lives on. What are you up to these days?

Last May, Ronnie James Dio passed away from Stomach Cancer. In the midst of his death, he and his wife, Wendy, were in the process of unveiling their new record label, Niji Entertainment Group. Recently, Wendy announced the label would continue on and release Dio at Donington UK: Live 1983 and 1987 to kick it off.

The double-album, showcasing Dio at the beginning of his solo career and at the peak of their creative expedition, will be a must have for Dio and [lastfm]Black Sabbath [/lastfm]fans alike.

Along with the release of the previously unattainable concerts, Dio’s memoirs will be available for the public. The book will be part-one of a three-part series, including an animated book of his lyrics and a book of photos following Dio’s life.

[Source: RS]