Ronnie James Dio's Final Chapter: Breaking Out of Heaven

Heaven & Hell 2007-2009 Box Set Review Explores Dio's Legendary Reunion with Black Sabbath Members

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:41pm

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An extreme close-up of shattered, reflective glass fragments in a dramatic, high-contrast studio lighting setup, conceptually representing the gritty yet glitzy legacy of Ronnie James Dio's final years with Black Sabbath.The Breaking Out of Heaven box set celebrates the raw energy and glittering glamour of Ronnie James Dio's final chapter with Black Sabbath's members, a poignant reunion that left an indelible mark on rock history.Louisville Today

The new Rhino box set 'Breaking Out of Heaven 2007–2009' celebrates Ronnie James Dio's unexpected reunion with Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Vinny Appice under the Heaven & Hell banner. This comprehensive collection captures the magic and controversy of Dio's final chapter, from the triumphant Live From Radio City Music Hall performance to the studio album The Devil You Know and the live album Neon Nights.

Why it matters

Dio's return to the stage with his former Black Sabbath bandmates was a moment that left fans in awe and cemented his enduring legacy in rock history. However, the reunion also divided opinions, with some questioning whether it honored or overshadowed Sabbath's original era. This box set offers a deep dive into this pivotal chapter, allowing fans to re-experience the raw energy and creative spark of Dio's final years.

The details

The Breaking Out of Heaven box set is available in two formats - a 7 LP set and a 4 CD/Blu-ray collection. Both are packed with rarities, including the first-ever vinyl pressing of the iconic Live From Radio City Music Hall performance and select studio and live tracks making their vinyl debut. The Blu-ray further enhances the experience with video footage and candid band interviews, providing a comprehensive look at Heaven & Hell's reunion journey from 2007 to 2009.

  • The box set will be available starting March 27, 2026.
  • The Live From Radio City Music Hall performance was recorded in 2007.
  • The studio album The Devil You Know was released in 2009.
  • The live album Neon Nights: 30 Years Of Heaven & Hell was recorded in Germany in 2009.
  • Dio passed away in 2010, making this box set a poignant celebration of his final years.

The players

Ronnie James Dio

The legendary heavy metal vocalist who reunited with his former Black Sabbath bandmates for the Heaven & Hell project in the late 2000s, cementing his enduring legacy in rock music.

Tony Iommi

The iconic guitarist and co-founder of Black Sabbath, who joined forces with Dio for the Heaven & Hell reunion.

Geezer Butler

The bassist and co-founder of Black Sabbath, who also participated in the Heaven & Hell reunion.

Vinny Appice

The drummer who played with Dio in Black Sabbath and reunited with him for the Heaven & Hell project.

Hugh Gilmour

The author of the fresh liner notes included in the Breaking Out of Heaven box set.

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The takeaway

The Breaking Out of Heaven box set offers a comprehensive and poignant celebration of Ronnie James Dio's final chapter, capturing the magic, energy, and controversy of his unexpected reunion with the members of Black Sabbath. This collection serves as a testament to Dio's enduring influence and the unshakable chemistry of the Heaven & Hell lineup, providing fans with a deep dive into a pivotal moment in rock history.