by John Kindred
— Publisher —
Mercury Studios has released Rainbow: Live In Munich 1977 as a Special Edition 2CD+DVD package, previously released in 2006 as separate releases now offered as one cohesive unit.
On October 20, 1977, Rainbow, following Ritchie Blackmore’s run-in with Austrian police at a gig two nights prior, took the stage at midnight, at Olympiahalle in Munich, Germany, delayed by circumstances yet highly energized.
The band at the time featured Ritchie Blackmore, the late Cozy Powell, Bob Daisley, David Stone, and the majestic vocals of the late Ronnie James Dio. This line-up would record the band’s third album 1978’s Long Live Rock ‘n’ Roll.
While the setlist looks short, Rainbow was a performing band that stretched many of their songs into lengthy jams, the concert clocks in at almost two hours. Songs included are from their first two albums Ritchie Blackmore’s Rising and Rising. We are also treated to hearing the groups cover Deep Purple’s “Mistreated.” Two new songs appear before their official release on Long Live Rock ‘n’ Roll – “Kill the King” and the title track.
With Blackmore’s inspiration and influence from the classical, blues and progressive genres, combined with Dio’s medieval imagery through lyrical themes — Rainbow provided the vehicle for both men to create one of Rocks most influential bands from the 1970s.
While the CDs provides listeners immersion within the musical journeys of Rainbow, the video offers a visual experience captured by cameras from multiple angles. Showcasing a 28 foot high, 40 foot wide electric rainbow with 3000 light bulbs, producing a multi-colored lighting effect. Underneath its protection was the band whose name is a reflection of the many colors of genres wrapped into their music.
The band was in fine form this evening and showcased amazing performances and musicianship. Live in Munich is the only official video release with Blackmore, Powell, and Dio on stage together.
See it, hear it.
Legends never die.
Genre: Classic Rock, Hard Rock
Label: Mercury Studios
Band:
Ritchie Blackmore (guitar)
Ronnie James Dio (vocals)
Cozy Powell (drums)
Bob Daisley (bass)
David Stone (keyboards)
DVD TRACK LISTING:
1. Introduction
2. Kill The King
3. Mistreated
4. Sixteenth Century Greensleeves
5. Catch The Rainbow
6. Long Live Rock ‘n’ Roll
7. Man On The Silver Mountain
8. Still I’m Sad
9. Do You Close Your Eyes
DVD Bonus Features:
Original promo videos for:
1. Long Live Rock ‘n’ Roll
2. Gates Of Babylon
3. L.A. Connection / Interviews / Rainbow Over Texas ’76 / Photo Gallery / Slide Show with Audio Commentary
CD:
Disc One:
1. Introduction
2. Kill The King
3. Mistreated
4. Sixteenth Century Greensleeves
5. Catch The Rainbow
6. Long Live Rock ‘n’ Roll
Disc Two:
1. Man On The Silver Mountain
2. Still I’m Sad
3. Do You Close Your Eyes
Hardrock Haven rating: 
(9.9 / 10)
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