You’ve probably already know of Dio Disciples, the tribute band featuring Tim “Ripper” Owens and members Dio’s solo group. Now get ready for yet another touring group featuring former Dio collaborators forming to pay tribute to the late great singer: The Southern Cross.
This particular group was formed by former Dio guitarist Rowan Robertson (currently of DC4). The guitarist, who only appeared on 1990’s Lock Up The Wolves, apparently reached out to drummer Rick Hagan before Dio’s death about performing material from his time in the band. The group has actually toured Norway at least twice under the name Queenstreet. However, when long time Black Sabbath keyboardist Geoff Nicholls joined the fold, they changed their name to The Southern Cross and focused on performing all of Dio, Sabbath, and Rainbow’s staple hits.
As of now, the only dates The Southern Cross have planned are for November in Norway. You can check out more information regarding the lineup, as well as watch video of them performing “Hey Angel” and “Falling Off The Edge Of The World” last September in Norway (under the name Queenstreet and without Nicholls), after the jump.
– Rowan Robertson (Dio, DC4) – Guitar
– Nils Patrik Johansson (Astral Doors, Lion’s Share) – Vocals
– Are Gogstad (Paul Di’Anno, Tim “Ripper Owens,” A.S.C.) – Bass
– Rick Hagan (Paul Di’Anno, Tim “Ripper Owens,” 21st Century Rox) – Drums
– Geoff Nicholls (Black Sabbath) – Keyboards
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-ue9sMbm28[/youtube]
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ge9oYRPa_o[/youtube]
[via Black-Sabbath.com by way of Blabbermouth]
