VINNY APPICE Remembers RONNIE JAMES DIO In New Interview

Sea Of Tranquility recently conducted an interview with legendary drummer Vinny Appice (HEAVEN & HELL, BLACK SABBATH, DIO). A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.

Sea Of Tranquility: Ronnie's [James Dio] passing has been hard on the entire hard rock and metal community, probably more so than any other artist in recent memory. He seemed like one of those figures that never aged, beloved by fans, friends, and family alike, and the "heavy metal" ambassador that would live forever, which I think is what has made his death so hard on us all. You were very close to Ronnie for many years. Can you give us some thoughts on your relationship with him, and how you are coping with the loss of your friend and bandmate?

Vinny: I met Ron when I was 23 years old. He became my bandmate, but also more importantly a brother, leader and a best friend. We had many things in common, most of all the desire to play on "11" each night and kick each others butt onstage. I really miss being around him and it feels like we are going to start rehearsing soon and he will be there.

Sea Of Tranquility: Before the announcement of Ronnie's illness, the band had planned another world tour. In addition, was there any writing going on for a possible follow-up album to "The Devil You Know"?

Vinny: No, there was nothing in the can, but Ronnie had a few songs he demoed in his studio. Tony [Iommi] and Geezer [Butler] may have been working on some ideas and riffs, too. But no official band writing session took place.

Sea Of Tranquility: Can you talk a little about the tribute show with Glenn Hughes and Jorn Lande? How was it working with both those singers? Is there any chance the three of you will collaborate with either singer in the future?

Vinny: It was very strange being in the rehearsal room together without Ronnie. We first played with Jorn, who sang great but still strange for us, especially when we played "Heaven And Hell"; that was hard to play the first time without it becoming emotional and sort of sad. Jorn did a great job and Glenn was brilliant as usual. We became a band for that show and for Ron and we played for the fans!

Sea Of Tranquility: Speaking of the future, what does the future hold for Iommi, Butler, and yourself, as HEAVEN & HELL, or as any other entity?

Vinny: Right now we are in contact with each other but no plans have been made.

Read the entire interview from Sea Of Tranquility.