Undoubtedly 'Dio's' finest album and one of the best and most influential Metal albums of the early 80's. Fresh from his successful stint with 'Black Sabbath', 'Ronnie James Dio' put together his own band, comprising of 19 year old wonderstuff 'Vivian Campbell' later of 'Def Leppard' fame, former 'Rainbow bassist 'Jimmy Bain' and drummer 'Vinnie Appice', who had a short spell with 'Dio' era 'Sabbath'. Together they conjure up a album full of dark and mystical metal tracks, which won't be better by any subsequent 'Dio' album.

The album opens up with the steamroller 'Stand up and Shout', a fast paced blazer of the highest order, the rhythm work is amazing and combines with 'Ronnies' thundering voice it makes for a great opener, oh I nearly forgot, checkout 'Vivs' soloing, pure strafing bliss. Next up is the epic title track, which builds from an atmospheric intro to a crunching rocker, full of tasty hooks, glorious vocals and powerful lyrics. More great metal can be found in 'Gypsy', another thundering gem, with irresistible verses- "She was straight from 'HELL' but you can never tell", that must be sung-a-long to. 'Caught in the Middle' stands out from the rest of the tracks as it's less dark and brooding and has more of a commercial feel but as such is perhaps the weakest track present. After a lightly spoken intro 'Don't Talk to Strangers' explodes into a blistering chorus heavy number, brimming with fine fret work and glorious melodic vocals. 'Straight through the Heart' isn't quite on par, but the cutting guitar and rhythm work carry it. Even better is 'Invisible' a cleverly written track which starts out like an emotional ballad, but suddenly picks up into a another great plodding rocker, full of scorching vocals and screaming guitars. 'Rainbow in the Dark', is probably one of Dio's most recognised songs, and its not surprising with its majestic lyrics, catchy riffs and sharp keyboard work. The album closes with the menacing 'Shame on the Night', a mystical, brooding piece, that's definitely not one for the kiddies- watch out for the evil voice just near the end.

A really cracking album and although rarely credited, very influential. Subsequent 'Dio' albums don't pack the same punch as 'Holy Diver' but there's still some excellent stuff to come!