JEFF PILSON: New DIO Songs Are 'Brilliant'

Former DOKKEN bassist Jeff Pilson has posted the following message on his official web site:

"I will be playing on the new DIO record, and I'm really looking forward to it. I've heard 9 songs and I must say it's brilliant! Ronnie and Craig (Goldy) have done a beyond amazing job of writing on this one. It's classic DIO, but very deep and intense. There are a few tracks that I really have to classify as masterpieces. I can't give away any titles yet, but it's some of the best new music I've heard in a long time, and I have no doubt all of you will agree. We start rehearsing next week (the 5th) and go into the studio mid-April. I've heard they're talking about a July release, so I'll keep everybody informed. This is one record I don't think anyone, especially hardcore DIO fans, should miss. There is to be a European DIO tour in July, but I, unfortunately, won't be able to be there — expecting our first child and all. But I know the band will kick ass, and there are also supposed to be dates in the states soon after. Gonna be a strong year for Ronnie and Co.

"I'm very eagerly awaiting the WAR AND PEACE release, April 19 — getting awfully close. I'm so anxious for everyone to finally hear the whole thing, seems like it's been a long time coming. I got very excited when Mark, from Z Records, sent me some of the early reviews and the response was beyond my wildest dreams (at least so far!). It's so very gratifying to have people respond to this record — I can't even tell ya! I really do hope that everyone out there can help and post on as many websites as possible about the release. Word of mouth, or at least Internet word of mouth, is the best promotional vehicle around for a record like this, and I hope to utilize it to the fullest. But that takes all of you, and any and all help will be greatly appreciated. Metal Sludge, hardradio.com, knac.com, etc., are just some of the places that may appreciate this record. Oh, and perhaps the DOKKEN and DIO websites — they may be good candidates!! I know we'll have signed copies for sale very soon — hope you all pick one (or of course, more!) up!

"Now here's the interesting bit of news. Z Records is so excited about the early response to this record that they really want me to come over to England in September to do some shows. That got me quite excited so I'm trying to sort things out to facilitate this and go over for a quick UK tour. And what that also means is, while I'm at it, I'd like to do some stateside shows as well. They will more than likely be west coast, but it looks like I'll be hitting the road for a mini-tour come September! I'm excited — I hope I can still perform!!! I've spoken with Fro (Michael Frowein) and he's in (his words) — so got half the band already!!! I am so excited about having the chance to go out and promote this — I'm just a bit giddy! Maybe this could lead to some possible L/P shows as well — that would be nice. But either way, I'll do my best to make this happen and hopefully see some of you in the fall. How fun!!"