Rainbow
Rising
2 x LP
180grs 33⅓rpm
2015 EU reissue on 180g LP+download - Classic 1977 Double Album Among Decade's Pivotal Live Records: Incredible Energy and Scorching Performances
Tracks:
A1 Tarot Woman
A2 Run With The Wolf
A3 Starstruck
A4 Do You Close Your Eyes
B1 Stargazer
B2 A Light In The Black
Initially perceived as a Ritchie Blackmore solo project, Rainbow had become a permanent fixture in the British rock atmosphere by the time the band was ready to follow-up its breakthrough debut. For Rising, Blackmore had replenished Rainbow with a colorful arsenal of accomplished sidemen and studio musicians; keyboardist Tony Carey, bassist Jimmy Bain and drummer Cozy Powell. But the main event here is Ronnie James Dio, who establishes himself as one of heavy metal's most influential vocalists.
The presence of the new lineup is immediately felt. The keyboard intro to "Tarot Woman" sets a sorcerous tone for the album. Carey's dexterous playing paired with Powell's thunderous drumming provides a cavernous sonic template for Blackmore chugging riffs and sparking leads. Dio's lyrical trademarks are all here: tales of wizards, magic and kings, as well as foreboding of the darkness that lurks ahead. The epic "Stargazer," which features a 42-piece orchestra, and the equally ambitious, nine-minute "A Light In the Black" - an indisputably thrilling one-two punch – close out the album.
Drager(LP,EP,12,7,CD): LP
Qual(120grs,150grs,180grs): 180grs
Speed(33,45): 33
Label: Polydor
Originally released: 1977
This release: 2015