This classic offering follows on perfectly from 'Rising', although 'Long Live Rock 'n' Roll' doesn't quite match the depth of song writing featured on its predecessor, this is made up for by the more accessible approach. There are less 'epics' here and although 'Gates of Babylon' and 'Rainbow Eyes' exceed the 6 minute mark, the album has more of a distinctive feel, with a greater diversity of styles exhibited. Don't let this lead you to believe that this isn't as heavy, this album is full of great 70's style rockers. 'Ritchie Blackmore' again spun his infamous revolving door and out went 'Jimmy Bain', and 'Tony Carey' and in stepped 'Bob Daisley', and 'David Stone', retaining only 'Dio' and 'Powell' from 'Rising'. 'Jimmy Bain' and 'Dio' would later be reunited in the latter's own band.

The title track to the album and 'Heavy Metal' for that matter of fact, kick starts this cracker, mesmerising riff and rhythm work, drive this anthem, combining with crystal clear power vocals for an all out corker, some may say a tad repetitive, but I say, "shut up, and listen to 'Blackmore's' solo and learn". The pace is dropped for the vocal heavy 'Lady of the Lake', which sees 'Dio' coping brilliantly with some difficult lyrics, the bass and drum work is basic but steady and entertaining. Third up is 'L.A. Connection', a superb chugger, that's elegantly written with gutsy vocals, driving rhythm and the expected quality guitar solo. A real change of style for the brilliantly composed 'Gates of Babylon', a real epic, with eastern, possibly 'Egyptian' influences. The intelligent keyboards really enhance the sound, and combining that with classic 'Blackmore' and 'Dio' makes for one of 'Rainbow's' best ever numbers. My favourite just edging the last track is 'Kill the King', possibly one of the fastest songs around when this was released, features powerfully sung, aggressive lyrics with a decisive sing-a-long chorus all with a backdrop of intricate axe work, furious drumming and again sweet keyboard work- magic!. 'The Shed' isn't one of the strongest tracks present but highlights a thumping rhythm and lyrics that remind me of 'Dio's' previous band 'Elf'. The pace is upped for the carefree rocker 'Sensitive to Light' which features strong chorus and lyrics, but probably could have done with a bit more production, as I feel it doesn't flow particularly well. Closing the album is the oriental influenced ballad 'Rainbow Eyes', one of the most beautiful numbers you will hear, 'Dio' turns in a magnificent performance, sounding oh so sweet, softening his voice like you've never heard him before.

Unfortunately this would be the last release to feature 'Ronnie James Dio' on vocals, as he opposed 'Ritchie Blackmore's' requests to develop the band into a more commercial outfit and decided to leave, later to join 'Black Sabbath'. Future releases featured the more pop friendly sound 'Blackmore' wanted and they did achieve reasonable chart success, but album wise, non could match the classics 'Rising' and 'Long Live Rock 'n' Roll' of the 'Dio' era.