Get ready to relive the thunderous legacy of Ronnie James Dio and his iconic collaboration with Black Sabbath members—because this is the ultimate tribute to a legendary chapter in heavy metal history. Rhino is set to unleash Breaking Out Of Heaven 2007–2009, a sprawling 4CD/Blu-ray and 7LP box set that captures the final, electrifying era of Dio’s partnership with Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Vinny Appice under the Heaven & Hell banner. But here’s where it gets emotional: this collection is a bittersweet celebration of a band that reignited their magic decades after their original run, only to have it cut short by Dio’s untimely passing. Available March 27, this release is a must-have for fans craving a deep dive into the band’s studio and live brilliance.
Breaking Out Of Heaven 2007–2009 isn’t just a rehash—it’s a treasure trove of rarities and firsts. For the first time ever, the complete Live From Radio City Music Hall performance hits vinyl, alongside eight tracks making their vinyl debut. The Blu-ray edition amps up the experience with HD-upscaled videos, including Neon Nights: 30 Years Of Heaven & Hell – Live At Wacken, and intimate band interviews. And this is the part most people miss: the set includes a replica tour book, poster, and an illustrated book with new liner notes by Hugh Gilmour, making it a collector’s dream.
The journey begins with the band’s 2007 reunion, marked by their triumphant Live From Radio City Music Hall performance, followed by the chart-topping studio album The Devil You Know (2009) and the live masterpiece Neon Nights. Each tracklist is a testament to the band’s enduring power, from the anthemic Atom And Evil to the haunting Bible Black. But here’s the controversial part: while fans celebrate this release, it also sparks debates about whether this lineup could have surpassed their earlier work if Dio had lived. What do you think? Could Heaven & Hell have redefined heavy metal’s future?
Dio’s legacy is undeniable. Replacing Ozzy Osbourne in 1980, he left an indelible mark on Black Sabbath before reuniting with the band in 2006 as Heaven & Hell. His battle with stomach cancer, diagnosed in 2009, ended his life in 2010, but his voice and spirit live on in this collection. Tony Iommi’s reflections on their final tour are both heartwarming and heartbreaking: ‘We were really on a roll… we loved working together.’ And this is the part that hits home: Dio’s final public appearance in 2010, despite his illness, showcased his unwavering dedication to his fans.
So, here’s the question: Is Breaking Out Of Heaven 2007–2009 just a nostalgia trip, or is it a reminder of what heavy metal could have been? Let us know in the comments—and don’t forget to pre-order this epic release here before it’s gone!
