DARK MILE – debut album featuring former DIO and Quiet Riot members

I haven’t seen much about this one, but it grabbed my attention for the DIO connection, as it features guitarist Tracy G. Tracy played on the Dio albums Strange Highways, Angry Machines, and Dio’s Inferno: Last in Live – not Dio’s most successful period, but Tracy G had his own distinctive sound and suited Dio’s heavier& darker direction at the time. The other name of interest here is singer Mark Huff, who was the first of many singers to front the re-booted QUIET RIOT from 2010 to2012 before being sidelined and replaced following a serious health issue. Huff resurfaced a few years ago in the band STEEL MOUNTAIN CROSSING, who released a 7-track CD in 2019. But DARK MILE, which recently was released doesn’t necessarily sound like either member’s past. This is a solid, more melodic hard-rock/metal album. I like this, lots of good riffs, big heavy guitar sound, with a few acoustic moments, and a good mix of songs. Standout tracks include “Games”, “Know Me”, and “I Can’t Help You”. Check out the clip below, as well as the band bio, and links.

Dark Mile set out to create a sound that can certainly be described as melodic hard rock. But there is a uniqueness to the sound that cannot be described as a copycat or sound alike.

Long time friends Tracy G (Dio), Paul Alfery (Walk The Walk) and Randy Oviedo (Streek) connected with Mark Huff (Quiet Riot) and respected what each of them had done musically in the past. All four have been involved in the hard rock music scene for years. They felt that if they could draw on that experience, they could create a powerful and distinctive sound.

Tracy G will be best known for his years with Ronnie James Dio. Mark Huff spent several years touring with Quiet Riot. Paul Alfery released the debut record for Walk the Walk and Randy Oviedo has been playing live as well as doing studio sessions since his days with Streek.

Their debut record can be best described as big, loud and raucous. Crunchy guitars, thunderous bass and vocals that demand your attention. Catchy songs with an elevated level of musicianship. Ready to make their mark in the melodic hard rock market. The future looks bright for Dark Mile.