Having A Riot With Winter : An Exclusive Interview With Mike DiMeo

Ever since joining heavy metal legends Riot back in 1993, vocalist Mike DiMeo has been responsible for some of the most soulful vocals laid down in the modern metal scene. Beginning with 1994's 'Nightbreaker', DiMeo soon found his footing, contributing not only fantastic vocals, but also well thought out lyrics which are some of the most articulate in the melodic power metal genre. Before leaving in 2006, he ended up recording six studio albums and one live album with the group, consolidating his stature as one of the finest vocalists around.

Another testament to his considerable vocal talents is the fact that the Long Island native was tapped by then Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore to work on their 25th Anniversary album 'The Battle Rages On,' going as far as recording sessions for the album before record company pressures brought Ian Gillan back into the band, leaving DiMeo somewhat the odd man out at the time.

In 2004 the most versatile frontman joined up with ex Rainbow, B.O.C. and Sabbath drummer Bobby Rondinelli, guitarist Patrick Klein and bassist Randy Pratt in The Lizards for the excellent 'Cold Blooded Kings' album, eventually recording two further studio albums with the band, 'Against All Odds' (featuring several duets with Black Country Communion's Glenn Hughes), the covers album 'Archaeology' and the live DVD '4-2-11'. In 2006, he replaced vocalist Jorn Lande for the recording of power metallers Masterplan's 'Mk II'.

One facet of DiMeo's musical abilities many of his fans in the metal and hard rock scene might not be aware of is his impressive skills as a keyboardist. From supplying Jon Lord stylings on the Lizards' releases ,being part of Andy Aledort & The Groove Kings, to him being part of the touring bands of Tommy James and The Shondells and Bonnie Tyler, the vocalist is finding himself increasingly in demand as a session player. Evidenced by the fact that he was asked to contribute on all tracks of the brand new release 'Roots' by albino blues rock legend Johnny Winter, even appearing live as part of the band for the CD release party in New York City.

Recently we had the wonderful opportunity to catch up with Mike shortly after his appearance with Winter at the bluesman's album release party. Come read with us as we have an exclusive conversation with one of the finest vocalists on the hard rock/metal scene, Mike DiMeo..Click here for the interview.