DIO - Last in Line - Anglo American Heavy Metal 12" Vinyl LP Album

  "The Last in Line" is the second studio album by heavy metal band Dio, released on July 13, 1984. This web-page has hi-res photos of the album covers, record label and a detailed description.

 

Large Hires Photo

Album Description:

In 1984, the world of heavy metal was forever changed with the release of Dio's second studio album, "The Last in Line". The German edition of this iconic album, bearing the record catalog number Vertigo 822 366, became an instant classic in the hearts of metal enthusiasts across the globe. Filled with powerful performances, masterful musicianship, and captivating artwork, this LP stands as a testament to Dio's enduring legacy in the realm of heavy metal.

A Powerful Duo:

Produced by the legendary Ronnie James Dio himself, the German edition of "The Last in Line" maintained the same creative direction that made the original release such a success. With Dio's unparalleled vision and dedication to his craft, the album promised to deliver an unforgettable listening experience to fans in Germany and beyond.

The Masterful Touch:

The importance of mastering an album cannot be overstated, as it ensures the final sound quality is optimized for vinyl. For the German edition, Dio enlisted the renowned mastering engineer George Marino, who brought his expertise to the table once again. Marino's skilled touch enhanced the album's sonic depth, allowing every instrument and vocal nuance to shine through with clarity and power.

Visual Brilliance:

True to the spirit of Dio's artistry, the album cover design and artwork for the German edition were just as captivating as the original. Fans were treated to a visual feast, courtesy of the talents of the designers involved in creating the cover. The imagery perfectly complemented the album's themes and added an extra layer of mystique and intrigue.

Photographic Magic:

To capture the essence of Dio's performance and persona for the German edition, a team of skilled photographers was assembled. Their task was to immortalize the band's energy and charisma through their lenses, resulting in striking images that showcased the band in all their metal glory. These photos became an integral part of the album's presentation, resonating with fans and leaving an enduring impact.

The Maestros of Metal:

"The Last in Line" owed its legendary status not only to Dio's charismatic presence but also to the outstanding musicians who comprised the band.

Ronnie James Dio, with his powerful and emotive vocals, was the beating heart of the band. His ability to convey raw emotion and his remarkable stage presence cemented his status as one of the most iconic figures in metal history. Although no longer with us, Ronnie James Dio's influence continues to be felt throughout the genre.

Claude Schnell, the master of keyboards, added layers of grandeur and atmosphere to the band's sound. His keyboard arrangements complemented the heavy guitar riffs, creating a captivating and unique sonic experience.

Jimmy Bain, a multi-talented musician who played bass and keyboards, contributed significantly to the band's distinctive sound. His creativity and technical prowess on the bass guitar laid a solid foundation for the band's music.

Vinny Appice, the powerhouse behind the drums, provided the driving rhythm that propelled the band's songs forward with relentless energy. His precise and thunderous drumming style became a defining element of Dio's sound.

Vivian Campbell's guitar work was nothing short of extraordinary. His impressive technical skill, melodic sensibility, and fiery solos elevated the band's music to new heights, making him an indispensable part of the Dio lineup.

The Magnum Opus:

"The Last in Line" featured a collection of timeless heavy metal anthems. Tracks like the eponymous "The Last in Line" and the electrifying "We Rock" have become staples in Dio's live performances, rallying crowds with their potent energy and memorable choruses. The epic and storytelling nature of "Egypt (The Chains Are On)" showcased Dio's ability to craft immersive musical journeys.

Music Genre:

  Heavy Metal NWOBHM  
Album packaging:  This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, and photos.

Album Production information:

Produced by Ronnie James DIO

Ronnie James Dio was a legendary heavy metal vocalist known for his powerful voice and fantasy-driven lyrics. Rising to fame with Rainbow, he later fronted Black Sabbath before forming his band, Dio. His iconic albums like "Holy Diver" and "The Last in Line" cemented his status as a metal icon. His influence on the Heavy Metal genre remains unmatched. Learn more

Angelo Arcuri - Producer, Sound Engineer

Rich Markowitz - Sound Engineer

George Marino (1947-2012) - Mastering Engineer

George Marino was a legendary mastering engineer whose expertise shaped the sound of countless iconic albums. Born in 1947, he honed his craft at Capitol Records before joining Sterling Sound in 1973. His mastering work on albums by AC/DC, Metallica, and Guns N' Roses defined rock and metal's sonic power. His legacy endures through his meticulous audio craftsmanship. Learn more

Barry Jackson - Artwork

Gene Kirkland - Photography

Gene Kirkland has been taking photos for music albums covers (during the 1980s) mainly for DIO , but also for Megadeth and Sanctuary.

Neil Zlozower - Photographer

Neil Zlozower is a legendary rock photographer whose raw, high-energy images defined the hard rock and heavy metal scenes of the 1970s and 1980s. From Van Halen to Mötley Crüe, his work captures the wild spirit of rock’s golden age. With a career spanning decades, Zloz remains one of the most respected names in music photography. Learn more about his legacy on Neil Zlozower - Photographer.

Steve Gerdes - Album Cover Design

Wendy Dio - Cover Concept

Record Label & Catalognr:

  Vertigo 822 366

Media Format:

  12" Vinyl LP Record

Year & Country:

  1984 Made in Germany  
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: DIO - Last in Line
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Ronnie James Dio (1943-2010) - Vocals, Producer
    Ronnie James Dio was a legendary heavy metal vocalist known for his powerful voice and fantasy-driven lyrics. Rising to fame with Rainbow, he later fronted Black Sabbath before forming his band, Dio. His iconic albums like "Holy Diver" and "The Last in Line" cemented his status as a metal icon. His influence on the Heavy Metal genre remains unmatched. Learn more
  • Vivian Campbell - Guitars
  • Claude Schnell - Keyboards
  • Jimmy Bain (1947-2016) - Bass, Keyboards
    Jimmy Bain was a renowned bass guitarist known for his work with Rainbow and Dio. His powerful bass lines shaped classics like "Rising" with Rainbow and "Holy Diver" with Dio. A key contributor to heavy metal's golden era, his driving rhythms and songwriting helped define the genre’s sound. His legacy lives on through his timeless recordings. basslines powered some of hard rock's most iconic anthems. Learn more
  • Vinny Appice - Drums
    Vinny Appice is a powerhouse drummer known for his thunderous and precise playing. Born in 1957, he gained fame with Black Sabbath, debuting on "Heaven and Hell" alongside Ronnie James Dio. He later joined Dio’s band, contributing to iconic albums like "Holy Diver" and "The Last in Line2. His influence on heavy metal drumming remains legendary. Learn more

 

Complete Track Listing of: DIO Last in Line

The Song/tracks on "DIO Last in Line" are

    Side One:
  • We Rock
  • The Last in Line
  • Breathless
  • I Speed at Night
  • One Night in the City
    Side Two:
  • Evil Eyes
  • Mystery
  • Eat Your Heart Out
  • Egypt (The Chains are on)

High Resolution Photo #1 DIO Last In Line

High Resolution Photo Album Back Cover  

High Resolution Photo #2 DIO Last In Line

High Resolution Photo of the Original Custom Inner Sleeve (OIS) #1  

High Resolution Photo #3 DIO Last In Line

High Resolution Photo of the Original Custom Inner Sleeve (OIS) #2  

High Resolution Photo #4 DIO Last In Line

High Resolution Photo of the LP Side One  

High Resolution Photo #5 DIO Last In Line

Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )

Index of DIO (The Band) - Vinyl LP Albums Discography

DIO - Dream Evil 12" Vinyl LP
Updated
DIO - Dream Evil album front cover vinyl lp album https://vinyl-records.nl

Released in 1987, Dream Evil is Dio's fourth studio album, blending soaring vocals, thunderous drums, and mystical themes. Featuring iconic tracks like Night People and All the Fools Sailed Away, it showcases Dio’s signature mix of fantasy and heavy metal. With Vinny Appice on drums and Jimmy Bain on bass, this album delivers a polished yet powerful sound, cementing Dio’s legacy in metal history.

Learn more
DIO - Holy Diver 12" Vinyl LP
DIO - Holy Diver album front cover vinyl record

Dio's legendary debut album "Holy Diver" arrives in Germany and the Netherlands! This 1983 vinyl LP delivers heavy metal classics like "Holy Diver" and "Rainbow in the Dark."

- Holy Diver (1983, Germany ) - Holy Diver (1983, Netherlands)
DIO - Intermission 12" Vinyl LP
DIO - Intermission album front cover vinyl record

Recorded at the San Diego Sports Arena in 1985 during the "Sacred Heart" tour, "Intermission" served as a sonic testament to the band's intense stage presence and Dio's enduring power as a frontman.

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DIO - Last In Line (German & Netherlands Releases)
DIO - Last In Line (German & Netherlands Releases)  album front cover vinyl record

DIO's seminal album "The Last in Line" arrived in Germany and the Netherlands in 1984. This vinyl LP showcases the band's raw power with iconic tracks like "We Rock" and the album's namesake.

- Last in Line ( 1984, Germany ) - Last In Line ( 1984, Netherlands )
DIO - Lock Up The Wolves 12" Vinyl LP
DIO - Lock Up The Wolves album front cover vinyl record

Released in 1990, "Lock Up The Wolves" emerged at a pivotal juncture in Dio's musical evolution. The album marked a departure from some of his earlier works, as it unveiled a renewed sense of exploration

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DIO - Sacred Heart (Three European Releases)
DIO - Sacred Heart (Three European Releases) album front cover vinyl record

DIO's iconic third album "Sacred Heart" hit European, German, and Dutch record stores in 1985. This heavy metal masterpiece features hits like "Rock 'N' Roll Children" and the title track. Learn the history of this classic vinyl!

- Sacred Heart (1985, Europe) - Sacred Heart (1985, Germany) - Sacred Heart (1985, Holland)