Holy diver - Dio

Transcription for Bass of one of the most iconic Heavy Metal songs ever, originally recorded by Jimmy Bain on Dio’s 1983 debut album, Holy Diver.

I recently started working on this song with one of my students at Metal Academy here in Barcelona, and suddenly realized that it’s not as easy to play as it may seem, especially when it comes to memorizing all the small details hidden in this bass line.

Jimmy Bain’s bass work on this track is a perfect example of how great Heavy Metal bass playing can be both powerful and incredibly detailed at the same time. Try to focus on rhythmic precision and delivering a strong, punchy pick attack. For a tighter and more aggressive tone, try playing with your right hand close to the bridge pickup.