Jorn Lande's (MASTERPLAN, AVANTASIA) new solo tribute album to RONNIE JAMES DIO, entitled Dio, will be featured on Metal Express Radio's 30 minute Daily Album Premiere show this Wednesday, June 30th, offering fans a listen to some of the new songs. Tune in here at 6:00 and 18:00 CET (midnight and noon EST).

Lande recently issued the following update:

"I am overwhelmed by all the positive response regarding 'Song for Ronnie James', and all the warm comments I have received from all around the world. It means a lot to me that you have embraced this song as something coming from the heart, and I'm truly grateful. In just a few days more than 100,000 people have viewed the video on the internet, and the number is still rising...

Many people are too busy trying to reinvent the wheel, forgetting the talent, quality and originality of the people that paved the way, like RONNIE JAMES DIO.

My intentions for writing 'Song for Ronnie James' was to bow down and pay respect to one of the greatest, most influential and unique artists the world has ever known. When Ronnie passed away so sudden, I wasn't sure whether or not the release of the song should be postponed for a while, but we decided to proceed with the release of the song as planned.

'Song for Ronnie James' was written before Ronnie got sick last year, and it makes me sad to know that he never got to hear it. Without Ronnie's presence, I would not have become the artist I am today.

It’s hard holding back the tears when reading all your wonderful comments, and once again I thank all of you for your support and recognition.

Ronnie James Dio lost his battle against cancer, but we must continue to fight this disease. Medical researchers are doing progress every day, and they need our help. You can help World Cancer Research Fund International by following this link. I urge you all to contribute in any way you can, your help will make a difference.

Sincerley yours, Jorn."

Frontiers Records recently reported:

The Norse God of metal. The leader of the renaissance of classic hard rock on its highest level. One of the most prolific and sought-after singers of today, whose vocal talent has reserved him a place amongst the greatest giants in the history of rock. This is JORN LANDE and now he offers his talents to honour the musical legacy of RONNIE JAMES DIO, with his new album, aptly entitled Dio, to be released on Frontiers Records on July 2nd in Europe and July 27th in North America.

Handpicking some lesser known tunes of the Dio era, along with some of the true classics, Jorn offers a fine collection of songs that present the music of the Man and the Artist, with a unique twist.

In Jorn Lande’s own words: “Throughout the years I have had the privilege of both meeting and working with many of the musicians that have inspired me on my musical journey. Ronnie James Dio has inspired me through decades, and this man's influence continues to add colour to my creative spirit. Ever since the first time I heard his royal roar back in the 70's, I have been fascinated by this extremely talented man's creative force and dedication to music. His career has been going on for so long and includes so many great songs, that it was a challenge to decide which songs and what era to focus on. I ended up focusing on the Dio era”.

The album also includes an original song for which a video clip, shot by Thomas Tjader (PRETTY MAIDS, IN FLAMES) was produced.

Jorn says “I wrote 'Song For Ronnie James' as a tribute and a personal thanks to the man who has been my mentor for more than 35 years. This great man has affected my life and career in such a way that without his presence, I would not have become the artist I am today."

The 'Song For Ronnie James' video can be seen below.

Either as front man in German metal act MASTERPLAN, which has achieved great success around the world, or as guest in spectacular projects such as Tobias Sammet’s AVANTASIA, or in the ALLEN / LANDE releases, Jorn Lande is today a trademark for quality hard rock music. Dio is the new chapter in Jorn’s history and a sincere and heartfelt “thank you” to a great and influential Artist.

Dio was mixed by Tommy Hansen, Jailhouse Studios, and the final tracklisting includes the following tracks:

'Song For Ronnie James'

'Invisible'

'Shame On The Night'

here

'Push'

here

'Stand Up And Shout'

here

'Don't Talk To Strangers'

'Lord Of The Last Day'

'Night People'

'Sacred Heart'

'Sunset Superman'

'Lonely Is The Word' / 'Letters From Earth' (2010 version)

'Kill The King'

'Straight Through The Heart' (live)

'Song for Ronnie James' (video clip)