Last in Line Singer Andrew Freeman Laments the Loss of Bandmate Jimmy Bain

Over the weekend, the rock world suffered another shocking loss, this time with the passing of bassist Jimmy Bain. The four-stringer was most noted for playing in Dio and Rainbow and had recently revitalized the Dio spirit with his old bandmates while adding singer Andrew Freeman to the ranks in the Last in Line. Having had some time to reflect on Bain's death, Freeman has penned a heartfelt tribute to the legend.

Freeman, who previously enjoyed stints in Lynch Mob and Hurricane, took to his Facebook page to post some warm words about his bandmate. While the rest of the group had spent time together as the classic Dio lineup, the singer was a newcomer, but his statement (seen below) touches upon his entrance into the fold:

As I am sure you all have heard, we lost our friend and bandmate Jimmy Bain over the weekend. I have had the pleasure of knowing Jimmy for about 10 years through a few music projects and our recent band, Last In Line.

I cannot stress the level of sadness and loss that I feel losing such a close friend and mentor.
Jimmy, along with Vivian Campbell and Vinny Appice, welcomed me into their intimate artistic circle, entrusting me the responsibility of performing a legendary library of music and building a new one. I will be forever indebted to this man for the encouraging spirit he graced me with.

Rest easy my friend, I will do my best to carry on your legacy.

Formed as a tribute to the fallen Ronnie James Dio with the addition of Freeman, Bain, Vivian Campbell and Vinny Appice were poised for the release of their original debut album, Heavy Crown. The record is still on track for a Feb. 19 release via Frontiers and Loudwire served up an exclusive premiere of "Blame It on Me," which was launched as a tribute to the late bassist.

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