Before Ronnie James Dio became a heavy metal icon, he fronted Elf, a bluesy hard rock band with a raw, boogie-driven sound. Their self-titled 1972 debut, produced by Deep Purple’s Roger Glover and Ian Paice, blends honky-tonk piano, swaggering guitar riffs, and Dio’s powerful, soulful vocals. Tracks like “Hoochie Koochie Lady”, “Never More”, and “Sit Down Honey (Everything Will Be Alright)” highlight the band’s blend of blues-rock grit and melodic charm. While far from the epic metal Dio would later pioneer, Elf is a fascinating glimpse into his early roots, packed with energy and musicianship.

1 Hoochie Koochie Lady 5:35
2 First Avenue 4:25
3 Never More 3:52
4 I’m Coming Back For You 3:29
5 Sit Down Honey (Everything Will Be Alright) 3:50
6 Dixie Lee Junction 5:12
7 Love Me Like A Woman 3:49
8 Gambler, Gambler 4:27