Dio-Dream Evil (1987)

"Dream Evil" was another major contribution to classic heavy metal from Ronnie James Dio. Although this fourth album from the diminutive vocalist doesn't surpass his first two works, "Holy Diver" (1983) and "The Last In Line" (1984), it is superior to his third, "Sacred Heart", an album that displayed a certain lack of creativity and was merely a logical but ultimately unsuccessful continuation of the style of his previous two albums. Guitarist Vivian Campbell no longer appears on "Dream Evil", having accepted David Coverdale's invitation to join Whitesnake. His place was taken by Craig Goldy, while the rest of the lineup remained unchanged with bassist Jimmy Bain, drummer Vinnie Appice, and keyboardist Claude Schnell. It was undoubtedly Goldy's contribution that rejuvenated the band's sound, showcasing ingenious riffs and guitar solos. Tracks like the opening "Night People" lay the foundation for how the rest of the album will unfold, while other pieces like the melodic "I Could Have Been a Dreamer", the dark "Faces In The Window" or the powerful heavy rock "All The Fools Sailed Away", "Dream Evil" and "Sunset Superman", complete a brilliant album, where Dio's accessible and melodic side is predominant in practically the entire repertoire.