Music: Heavy metal stars rock festive tunes

Okay, so it's still a few months 'til Xmas, but it's not too early to start planning :)

After Helix's Xmas release last year and Twisted Sister's effort from two years ago, not to mention all those TSO albums, it's not surprising that there would be a new release this year. I'll be picking it up mainly for the Dio performance

CANOE -- JAM! Music: Heavy metal stars rock festive tunes

Ronnie James Dio, Metal Legend, Dead at 67 |

Although not entirely unexpected, this is still pretty devastating news--the reports of Dio's positive response to chemo were a manifestation of optimism. The news that the Heaven And Hell tour was cancelled should have prepared us for this.

I'm too shook up to really comment on this at the moment, except to say that of course there will be a tribute on next weekend's show.

For now I'd just like to thank Ronnie for the music and offer my sincerest condolences to his friends and family.

Ronnie James Dio, Metal Legend, Dead at 67 | Billboard.com