DIO - Lock Up The Wolves - UK Release 12" Vinyl LP Album

In essence, "Lock Up The Wolves" on the UK Release 12" Vinyl LP Album is a multifaceted gem that encapsulates the essence of Dio's artistry. Beyond its musical offerings, the album stands as a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication that Dio poured into every facet of his work.

 

High Resolution Photo #1 DIO Lock Wolves

Album Description:

In the world of heavy metal history, few names command the same level of reverence as Ronnie James Dio. The maestro's musical journey is an epic saga woven with sonic tapestries that have enthralled generations of metalheads. One such chapter in Dio's illustrious career comes in the form of "Lock Up The Wolves", an album that encapsulates the quintessence of his artistic prowess. Initially conceived under the working title "Metallic Blue", this UK Release 12" Vinyl LP Album remains an enduring testament to Dio's mastery.

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 while retaining the signature elements that had solidified his status as a legendary figure in the metal realm. What sets this release apart is not only the music but also the intricate details and thought that went into the album's presentation.

The UK Release 12" Vinyl LP Album of "Lock Up The Wolves" is a treasure trove for collectors and fans alike. Encased in its sleeve, the album hosts a meticulously crafted inner sleeve featuring a plethora of album details, including production credits, track listings, and acknowledgments. This level of attention to detail speaks volumes about Dio's commitment to his craft and his desire to create an immersive experience for listeners.

An integral aspect of this immersive experience is the inclusion of the complete lyrics for all the songs on the album. Dio was renowned for his poetic lyricism, and "Lock Up The Wolves" is no exception. The album's lyrical content is a tapestry of evocative imagery, mythological references, and introspective narratives that resonate with listeners on a profound level. With the lyrics readily accessible within the album's packaging, fans are invited to delve into Dio's lyrical universe, deciphering the hidden meanings and connecting with the emotional depth of each composition.

Adding a personal touch, the album also features captivating photos of Ronnie James Dio and his band members. These images provide a glimpse into the camaraderie and creative synergy that fueled the making of "Lock Up The Wolves". The band members are captured in their element, exuding a sense of unity and shared purpose that radiates from the photographs. These visual snapshots humanize the musical journey and offer fans a glimpse into the world behind the music.

At the helm of production for "Lock Up The Wolves" were none other than Ronnie James Dio himself, alongside renowned producer Tony Platt. Their combined expertise and vision contributed to the album's sonic landscape, which is a fusion of Dio's iconic vocals, powerful guitar riffs, and intricate arrangements. The album's tracks traverse a spectrum of emotions, from the anthemic fervor of "Wild One" to the haunting melodies of "My Eyes".

In essence, "Lock Up The Wolves" on the UK Release 12" Vinyl LP Album is a multifaceted gem that encapsulates the essence of Dio's artistry. Beyond its musical offerings, the album stands as a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication that Dio poured into every facet of his work. It invites fans to embark on a sonic odyssey, guided by Dio's soaring vocals and the instrumental prowess of his band members.

Music Genre:

  Hard Rock, Heavy Metal 

Collector's info: 

Working title of this album was "Metallic Blue."

This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and photos Ronnie James Dio's band-members.

Album Production information:

The album: "Lock Up The Wolves" was produced by: Ronnie James Dio, Tony Platt

Tony Platt

Tony Platt is a distinguished British freelance music engineer and producer who has left an indelible mark on the music industry through his prolific work with renowned British bands, most notably Iron Maiden. His illustrious career spans several decades, and his expertise in music production has contributed significantly to the success of numerous artists.

Platt's involvement with Iron Maiden is particularly noteworthy, as he played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of the band during critical periods of their career. Iron Maiden, a pioneering heavy metal band, achieved international acclaim for their distinctive sound and energetic performances. Platt's collaboration with them attests to his proficiency in capturing the raw power and intricacies of their music.

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Beyond his work with British acts, Tony Platt also collaborated with the French band Trust, showcasing his versatility and ability to adapt to different musical styles and cultural contexts. Trust, known for their dynamic blend of hard rock and heavy metal, found in Platt a skilled professional capable of translating their artistic vision into a polished and impactful sonic experience.

Platt's career unfolded during a transformative period in the music industry, marked by advancements in recording technology and the emergence of new genres. The 1980s, in particular, witnessed the rise of heavy metal as a dominant force in the global music scene, and Platt's work with Iron Maiden and Trust reflects the vibrancy and diversity of this era.

In terms of production, Tony Platt is recognized for his meticulous attention to detail and commitment to achieving the best possible sound quality. His approach involves a combination of technical precision and artistic sensibility, creating a synergy that elevates the overall listening experience for audiences.

The collaborative nature of Platt's work is emblematic of the interconnectedness of the European music scene during his active years. His contributions to both British and French bands demonstrate the transcendent power of music to bridge cultural and linguistic divides.

Record Label & Catalognr:

Vertigo 846 033 (846033)

Media Format:

  12" Vinyl LP  Gramophone Record
Album weight: 220 gram  

Year & Country:

  1990 Made in England
Band Members and Musicians on: DIO Lock Up The Wolves
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Ronnie James Dio - Vocals

    Ronald James Padavona, better known as Ronnie James Dio, was born on 10 July 1942, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. He would later become one of the most influential and iconic figures in the history of heavy metal music. Dio's powerful vocals, distinct stage presence, and songwriting abilities earned him the title of the "King of Heavy Metal".

    Dio's musical journey began in 1957 when he formed his first band called The Vegas Kings, where he showcased his talents as a lead singer. Over the next few years, he went on to perform with various bands, including Ronnie and the Rumblers and Ronnie and the Redcaps. These early experiences helped him develop his vocal skills and stage persona.

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    In 1961, Dio joined Ronnie and the Prophets, a band that gained some local popularity. During this time, he experimented with different musical styles and expanded his repertoire. In 1967, the band changed its name to The Electric Elves and later simply The Elves. As The Elves, they played a blend of rock and blues, laying the groundwork for Dio's future ventures.

    In 1972, the band transformed once again and became known as ELF. Their music continued to evolve, incorporating elements of hard rock and progressive rock. ELF released three studio albums, showcasing Dio's exceptional vocal range and his ability to captivate audiences.

    Dio's big breakthrough came in 1975 when he joined the British rock band Rainbow, founded by former Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. With Dio as the lead vocalist, Rainbow gained international recognition and released several critically acclaimed albums. Dio's powerful vocals and poetic lyrics contributed to the band's success, and he quickly became a respected figure in the rock music scene.

    In 1979, Dio made yet another significant move in his career by joining Black Sabbath, replacing the band's original vocalist, Ozzy Osbourne. With Dio, Black Sabbath released the classic albums "Heaven and Hell" (1980) and "Mob Rules" (1981), which revitalized the band's sound and solidified their place in heavy metal history.

    In 1982, Dio formed his own band, simply named DIO, and embarked on a highly successful solo career. The band released numerous albums, including the critically acclaimed "Holy Diver" (1983) and "The Last in Line" (1984), which showcased Dio's songwriting abilities and his powerful vocals.

    Dio reunited with Black Sabbath for a brief period from 1991 to 1992 and again from 2006 to 2010 under the name Heaven & Hell. The band released the album "The Devil You Know" (2009) before Dio's untimely death in 2010.

    Throughout his career, Ronnie James Dio influenced countless musicians and fans with his distinctive voice, theatrical stage presence, and unwavering passion for heavy metal. His lyrics often explored fantasy and mythology, adding depth and a unique dimension to his music.

  • Rowan Robertson - Guitars
  • Teddy Cook - Bass
  • Simon Wright - Drums

      Simon Wright is a British Drummer, best known as drummer for AC/DC and DIO . Starting at age 13 he gained experience as adrummer, while during the late 1970's and early 1980's being part of the starting NWOBHM Heavy Metal style. The most important bands he has played in are 1981-1982 A-II-Z, 1982 Aurora, 1983-1989 AC/DC , 1990-1991 and 1998-2010 DIO , 1995-1996 and 1997-1999 UFO , 2013-2014 Queensryche, 2014-Today Operation: Mindcrime.

  • Jens Johansson - Keyboards
Track Listing of: "Lock Up The Wolves"

The Song/tracks on "Lock Up The Wolves" are

  • Wild One (Dio/Robertson) 3:57
  • Born on the Sun (Dio/Robertson/Bain/Appice) 5:30
  • Hey Angel (Dio/Robertson) 4:50
  • Between Two Hearts (Dio/Robertson) 6:16
  • Night Music (Dio/Robertson/Bain) 4:56
  • Lock up the Wolves (Dio/Robertson/Bain) 8:18
  • Evil on Queen Street (Dio/Robertson/Cook) 5:51
  • Walk on Water (Dio/Robertson/Johansson) 3:36
  • Twisted (Dio/Robertson/Bain/Appice) 4:35
  • Why Are They Watching Me (Dio/Robertson/Bain/Appice) 5:00
  • My Eyes (Dio/Robertson/Johansson) 6:24
Album cover photos of : DIO Lock Up The Wolves
High Resolution Photo #1 DIO Lock Wolves
Photo of "Lock Up The Wolves" Album's Inner Cover  

High Resolution Photo #2 DIO Lock Wolves

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

High Resolution Photo #3 DIO Lock Wolves

Enlarged High Resolution Photo of the Record's label  

High Resolution Photo #4 DIO Lock Wolves

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

Band Description:

 DIO was a heavy metal band that emerged in the 1980s as a result of Ronnie James Dio, who had previously been a member of the legendary bands Rainbow and Black Sabbath. Dio's eponymous band quickly gained a reputation for their distinctive sound and powerful live performances, becoming one of the most iconic bands of the era.

 The band's signature sound was characterized by powerful, driving guitar riffs, thundering bass lines, and Dio's distinctive vocals. Dio's soaring, operatic voice was a major part of the band's appeal, and helped to set them apart from other heavy metal bands of the time.

 The band's debut album, Holy Diver, was released in 1983 and was an instant classic. The album featured some of the band's most well-known songs, including the title track "Holy Diver," as well as "Rainbow in the Dark" and "Stand Up and Shout." The album was a critical and commercial success, and helped to establish Dio as one of the leading figures in heavy metal.

 Over the course of their career, Dio released ten studio albums, each showcasing the band's distinctive sound and musicianship. Some of the band's other notable albums include The Last in Line (1984), Sacred Heart (1985), and Dream Evil (1987).

 Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, Dio remained a consistent force in heavy metal music throughout the 1980s and into the 1990s. The band's live performances were particularly legendary, and Dio's stage presence and charismatic persona helped to make him a beloved figure among heavy metal fans.

 Tragically, Dio passed away in 2010, bringing an end to his remarkable career. However, his legacy lives on through the music of DIO, which continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.