Tag: Black Sabbath
0 Black Sabbath The Complete Studio Albums 1970-1978: Now Available Exclusively On The iTunes Store
BLACK SABBATH THE COMPLETE STUDIO ALBUMS 1970-1978
GO DIGITAL FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THE U.S.—
EXCLUSIVELY ON THE iTUNES STORE
FEATURES ALL THE CLASSIC WORKS FROM THE ORIGINAL BLACK SABBATH LINEUP
HERALDED REUNION TOUR CONTINUES IN 2014
WITH UPCOMING DATES IN NORTH AMERICA AND EUROPE
When Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Terry “Geezer” Butler and Bill Ward formed Black Sabbath in 1969, they created a signature sound that set the blueprint for heavy music and influenced generations of disciples for years to come. For the first time, the full catalog from the original Black Sabbath lineup is now available digitally in the U.S. and has been mastered specifically for iTunes, ensuring the delivery of the music to listeners with increased audio fidelity, more closely replicating what the artists, recording engineers, and producers intended. Available exclusively on the iTunes Store worldwide (www.iTunes.com/BlackSabbath), fans now have the ability to download all albums in one newly created bundle (THE COMPLETE STUDIO ALBUMS 1970-1978), eight legendary studio albums, two classic compilations, or simply purchase each song individually.
“It’s about f**king time the first eight Black Sabbath albums were made available on iTunes in the U.S.,” said Ozzy Osbourne.
“Great news, been a long time trying to explain to fans why the music wasn’t available,” Tony Iommi commented.
“It’s going to be great to finally have the catalogue accessible on iTunes,” Geezer Butler notes.
BLACK SABBATH: THE COMPLETE STUDIO ALBUMS 1970-1978 features the band’s collected studio works for Warner Bros. Records from the 1970’s, including their iconic eponymous debut (1970), the multi-platinum landmark Paranoid (1970), the platinum albums Master Of Reality (1971), Vol. 4 (1972), and Sabbath Bloody Sabbath (1973), and the gold-certified Sabotage (1975), Technical Ecstasy (1976), and Never Say Die! (1978). Also available is their classic 1976 compilation We Sold Our Soul For Rock ‘N’ Roll as well as 2006’s Greatest Hits 1970-1978, which was released in connection with their induction into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
Following wildly successful shows in North and South America, Australia, Asia and Europe, Black Sabbath will kick off another North American tour with dates starting March 31 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY. The trek will hit ten cities in Canada, including stops in Quebec, Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary and Edmonton, before wrapping April 26 at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, CA. These dates will be part of the band’s final shows of their 2013-2014 world tour in support of their first studio album in 35 years, 13, which entered the charts at #1 in 13 countries (including their first #1 in the U.S.). Another run of European festivals and headlining shows will follow this summer.
First formed in Birmingham, England, Black Sabbath’s doom-laden sound pioneered a new kind of heavy rock music, a sound that would later influence hundreds of other bands. Many consider Black Sabbath to be the godfathers of heavy metal, but Sabbath were capable of surprising their fans with songs that showed other facets of their skills besides darkness and monstrous decibels. Thirty years after their initial impact, guitarists are still stunned by Tony Iommi’s jaw-dropping riffs, Geezer Butler’s swooping bass lines, and Bill Ward’s thunderous drums. And, of course, in Ozzy Osbourne the band had one of the most magnetic and unpredictable front men ever in rock, with a maniacal voice like few others before or since.
BLACK SABBATH Titles now available at iTunes: www.itunes.com/BlackSabbath
Black Sabbath (1970)
Paranoid (1970)
Master Of Reality (1971)
Vol. 4 (1972)
Sabbath Bloody Sabbath (1973)
Sabotage (1975)
Technical Ecstasy (1976)
We Sold Our Soul For Rock ‘N’ Roll (1976)
Never Say Die! (1978)
Greatest Hits 1970-1978 (2006)
The Complete Studio Albums 1970-1978 (2014)
0 BLACK SABBATH Earn Multiple Grammy Nominations
BLACK SABBATH
EARN MULTIPLE GRAMMY NOMINATIONS
FOR THEIR #1 CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED
‘13’ ALBUM
AND
“GOD IS DEAD?” SINGLE
THE NOMINATIONS ARE FOR
BEST ROCK ALBUM, BEST ROCK SONG AND
BEST METAL PERFORMANCE
In a year that saw BLACK SABBATH earn the first U.S. #1 record in their career, the band has now been honored by the Grammys® with multiple nominations for their 2013 critically acclaimed 13 album (Vertigo/Republic). BLACK SABBATH’s nominations are for Best Rock Album for 13 and Best Rock Song and Best Metal Performance for “God Is Dead?” The band’s last Grammy win was in 2000 for Best Metal Performance for “Iron Man” from their Reunion live album.
“We are ecstatic, surprised and very happy!” says OZZY OSBOURNE.
For more than three decades, rock fans have hoped for the return of BLACK SABBATH, but few could have predicted the forceful return-to-form of 13, which was produced by seven-time Grammy-Award winning producer Rick Rubin. Entering the charts at #1 in 13 countries, 13 features the original BLACK SABBATH: OZZY OSBOURNE, TONY IOMMI and GEEZER BUTLER. With epic songs like “God Is Dead?,” “End of the Beginning” and “Loner,” 13 is a testament to the enduring relevance of BLACK SABBATH‘s long-running reign. The original BLACK SABBATH has sold over 70 million albums worldwide.
In support of the release of 13, BLACK SABBATH kicked off their triumphant 2013-2014 world tour in April, captured for the just released “Black Sabbath: Live…Gathered in Their Masses” (Vertigo/Republic), available in five different configurations, the most comprehensive of which is a deluxe box including a Blu-ray disc of the live show with exclusive bonus visual extras; two DVD discs; and a CD featuring live audio from the show. North American dates followed, along with shows in South America and Mexico for a headlining stadium tour (where they played to more than 300,000 fans). BLACK SABBATH are currently on the road in Europe through the end of the year and next year. The band also have additional shows in North America and Europe in 2014.
www.blacksabbath.com
http://www.facebook.com/BlackSabbath
http://twitter.com/OfficialSabbath
http://instagram.com/officialsabbath/
0 Vie’s Verses – Summer’s Last Gasp For Concerts
It’s August. The dog days of summer. Baseball is waiting for September when the pennant races get exciting. Football is in pre-season that not many people pay attention too. Hockey and basketball are still weeks away from starting up. The movies are churning out the leftovers that weren’t good enough for early summer. And the summer concerts are winding down. Haven’t had a chance to take in a show this year? Worried that the season may have passed you by? Well, fear not. This edition of Vie’s Verses is dedicated to some great remaining concerts that you can still catch.
Kid Rock/ZZ Top
Want to see a show on the cheap? Do you plan on being in the Detroit area in August? Kid Rock has you covered. Rock is currently touring with ZZ Top and Uncle Kracker and they will take up a week long residence in Detroit, before heading out to other stops on the end of their summer trek. The great thing about the Kid Rock tour is that prices are intentionally low. Every ticket, regardless of where the seat is, is $20. That’s a pretty good price to see ZZ Top and Kid Rock. Rock puts on an energetic performance, and fans definitely get their money’s worth.
Shinedown
The Carnival Of Madness Tour is in full swing featuring Skillet, Papa Roach, and Shinedown as the headline act. This is a great package show that runs through mid-September and tickets are still available for most dates. Papa Roach is an incredible live act, Skillet’s new album is excellent, and Shinedown is a hard rocking band still touring in support of the magnificent Amaryllis. Tickets range between $33 to $85 and for a total of five solid bands (In This Moment and We As Human are also performing) this is a great value for a summer concert.
Alice In Chains/Jane’s Addiction
Two great bands, one great night. Alice In Chains has teamed up with Jane’s Addiction to head out on the road. Throw in Coheed and Cambria, Danko Jones, and Circa Survive and you have one heck of a festival concert. Both Alice In Chains and Jane’s Addiction have a deep catalog of hits to perform, and while I’ve never seen Alice In Chains in concert, I know that Jane’s Addiction puts on an exceptional show. I’ve also heard great things about Danko Jones’ live act. Tickets range between $30 and $128 for this package deal and the tour runs through September 15th.
Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath. The forefathers of heavy metal. One of the most notorious bands in the history of rock and roll. If you’ve never seen Black Sabbath live, now is the time to change that. Sabbath is one of those bands that have to be seen live before you (or they) die. And with the age of this band, who knows how many more (if any) tours they have in them? On their current tour, the band sounds great, they play a set list of hits, and some new songs are featured that are absolutely fabulous live in concert. Ozzy’s vocals are clean and crisp, Geezer Butler sounds great on the bass, and Tony Iommi has never played a better guitar. I was absolutely amazed by the talent this band can still bring to the stage. Tickets for this show range between $47 and $163.
Iron Maiden
Up the irons! Iron Maiden is doing a quick 7 show run through the US with Megadeth as the opening act. The band is hitting specific spots of the country, so some travel may be required, but if you have the time and the desire, Maiden makes for a great summer night live in concert. The band is still performing their Maiden England tour, which means there will be nothing but hits. It’s reliving the late 80s all over again. Words can’t even describe how incredible Iron Maiden is in concert, and if you’ve been longing for a superb summer concert, this is the one to see. Tickets range between $42 and $109. Having seen Maiden in concert several times, I can tell you that the price is worth it.
To see if any of these bands are coming near your town, visit Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com). And if none of these shows are nearby, there is no need to worry. The fall will be here before you know it bringing a great many shows of its own.
Follow RyoVie on Twitter at Twitter.com/RyoVie
3 Black Sabbath – 13 (2013)
Legendary. It is the only word that fits the band Black Sabbath! It is mind-blowing to me that Black Sabbath has been recording metal music off & on for over 40 years now. Their music has stood against the test of time. There have been many imitators, but no band has been able to reproduce the amazing music that Black Sabbath has put out over the years. With that being said, Black Sabbath’s latest album 13, is not what I would call legendary, but it is a great bookend to what could easily be the final chapter in the careers of this amazing metal band.
Before the release of 13, I had not listened to a single song from the album, so I had no idea what to expect. After the first play, the only song that grabbed my attention initially was “God Is Dead”. On the first play, I thought, this could easily be a staple for Sabbath’s live set. It is a very classic sounding Sabbath song and easily one of my favorites on the album. I struggled at first to find another song that really made an impact on me, but I kept listening, and then a funny thing happened, I couldn’t QUIT listening.
13 really started sinking in after the second listen, and I started to enjoy it more. “End of the Beginning” does a great job re-capturing the vibe of the awe-inspiring 1970 debut Black Sabbath. Tony Iommi is absolutely riffdiculous. On 13, he has once again put together a stellar performance, creating a bunch of new riffs from his endless bag of tricks. It is his guitar work that will make you want to give this album endless spins. Geezer Butler deserves a strong mention here as well. His powerful bass is the driving force behind this music. It is awesome to listen to someone who can truly play, and not just remain hidden in the background playing rhythm. His deep and sometimes jangly bass riffs are amazing. Geezer does not always get the credit he deserves. It is my opinion that his playing on 13 is stellar.
As much as I love Ozzy Osbourne, I didn’t think his vocals were as strong or as aggressive as past releases. I get the fact that Ozzy is 64 years old, but I was hoping that producer Rick Rubin would push him a little further than he did. With that being said, Ozzy’s vocals aren’t bad, just not as good as they have been in the past.
As much as I am disappointed that Bill Ward was not involved in the making of this album, I have to give credit to Brad Wilk from Rage Against the Machine. He provided the thunder for this album, and I truly believe he did an outstanding job.
There are three of songs that have really grown on me since I started listening to 13, and those are “Loner”, “Zeitgeist” and “Live Forever”. “Loner” is maybe the most upbeat track on the album, while “Zeitgeist” is the slowest. “Zeitgeist” may just be one of the most different sounding Sabbath tracks of all time. That is the song’s pure brilliance. Iommi nearly treads into Eric Clapton territory with his playing on this one, and Brad Wilk plays the bongos throughout this song. “Zeitgeist” is clever and cool. Metal purists may turn their nose at this one, but I appreciate the creativity, and outstanding musicianship. I love the chorus on “Live Forever”. “Well I don’t want to live forever, but I don’t want to die….”. This lyric has really stuck in my head.
If you buy one version of this album, I highly recommend the bonus version (available at Best Buy) with four bonus tracks.
The bonus track “Methademic” is nearly worth the price of admission all by itself. This is a killer up tempo number that should have been on the main disc. I don’t know why this one got picked over. It is better than some of the songs on the main disc. This is a song that you won’t want to miss. (Check it out below!) “Pariah” is also an outstanding tune that should not be missed.
Overall, 13 is a solid, but not spectacular album. The more I listen to it, the more I have grown to like and appreciate it. It may not be perfect, but it does have good song writing, and outstanding musicianship. Black Sabbath fans should rush to get this, and all other metal fans should give this one a chance.
Rating: 
Out of 10
Track Listing:
01. End of The Beginning
02. God is Dead?
03. Loner
04. Zeitgeist
05. Age of Reason
06. Live Forever
07. Damaged Soul
08. Dear Father
* Bonus Tracks
01. Methademic
02. Peace of Mind
03. Pariah
04. Naivete In Black
Black Sabbath is:
Tony Iommi – lead guitar
Geezer Butler – bass guitar
Ozzy Osbourne – lead vocals
Brad Wilk – drums
0 Black Sabbath Confirms Full North American Tour
BLACK SABBATH
CONFIRM FULL NORTH AMERICAN TOUR
20 DATE TREK KICKS OFF
JULY 25 IN HOUSTON, TEXAS
Following the overwhelming response to the initial announcement of just four tour dates, BLACK SABBATH have now confirmed a full 20-city North American trek. Launching July 25 in Houston, TX, the tour will include shows in Philadelphia, Boston, Tinley Park (Chicago), San Francisco and other major markets, along with the previously announced stops in Holmdel, NJ (NY-area), Los Angeles, Seattle and Toronto, ON. Tickets for the newly announced dates will go on sale starting Friday, May 3 at LiveNation.com and Ticketmaster.com. A full list of cities and on sale dates for the dates is below. Beginning today, fans can click here or visit http://bit.ly/Sabbath_RSVP to RSVP for early access to presale tickets available Thursday, May 2. VIP Packages are also available at VIPNation.com.
BLACK SABBATH launched their world tour on April 20 with two shows in Auckland, NZ. They are now in Australia for performances in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Adelaide, before heading to Tokyo for the first-ever Ozzfest in Japan on May 12.
Along the overseas tour, BLACK SABBATH–OZZY OSBOURNE, TONY IOMMI and GEEZER BUTLER–are previewing music from their forthcoming 13. On the new album, due out June 11, the band that defined heavy metal picks up immediately where they left off with eight sprawling songs (five of them are over eight minutes) that possess every ounce of the maniacal vitality of the Grammy-winning, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees’ trailblazing work in the ’70s. Songs such as “End of the Beginning,” “Loner,” “Dear Father” and “Age of Reason” reinforce 13’s testament to the enduring relevance of BLACK SABBATH‘s long-running reign. Produced by Rick Rubin (seven-time Grammy winner, two of those as Producer of the Year), 13 will be released on Vertigo (worldwide) and Vertigo/Republic in the U.S.
Here’s some critical feedback from BLACK SABBATH’s opening night:
New Zealand Herald (4-21-13) Black Sabbath brought together fans young and old…in horn-throwing, fist-pumping fashion…[Ozzy] jumped and stomped about the stage with passion and energy to burn. Could he still cut it? Yes, he could…Black Sabbath’s spark lit up the arena.”
Stuff.co.nz (4-21-13): “Black Sabbath still the kings…on a night when Sabbath proved just why they belong in the unique pantheon of true rock greats…you realise that catching Sabbath at this stage in their long career was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
DATE CITY VENUE
+Thu- Jul 25 Houston, TX Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
+Sat-Jul 27 Austin, TX Frank Erwin Center
<Mon-Jul 29 Tampa, FL Live Nation Amphitheatre
+Wed-Jul 31 W. Palm Beach, FL Cruzan Amphitheatre
~Fri-Aug 02 Bristow, VA Jiffy Lube Live
*Sun-Aug 04 Holmdel, NJ PNC Bank Arts Center
+Tue-Aug 06 Detroit, MI DTE Energy Music Theatre
+Thu-Aug 08 Uncasville, CT Mohegan Sun Arena
+Sat-Aug 10 Philadelphia, PA Wells Fargo Center
^Mon-Aug 12 Boston, MA Comcast Center
*Wed-Aug 14 Toronto, ON Air Canada Centre
+Fri Aug 16 Tinley Park, IL First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre
+Sun-Aug 18 Indianapolis, IN Klipsch Music Center
+Thu-Aug 22 Vancouver, BC Rogers Arena
*Sat-Aug 24 Seattle, WA Gorge Amphitheatre
+Mon-Aug 26 San Francisco, CA Shoreline Amphitheatre at Mountain View
+Wed-Aug 28 Irvine, CA Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
+Fri-Aug 30 Phoenix, AZ US Airways Center
+Sun-Sep 01 Las Vegas, NV MGM Grand Garden Arena
*Tue-Sep 03 Los Angeles, CA Los Angeles Sports Arena
*Previously announced date.
^On sale Friday, May 3
+On sale Saturday, May 4
~On sale, Friday May 10
<On sale, Saturday, May 11
>On sale TBD
http://www.facebook.com/BlackSabbath
0 Check Out The New Black Sabbath Song, “God Is Dead”
Black Sabbath’s new album 13 is only a few short weeks away from being released, but you can check out Sabbath’s new single “God Is Dead” now!
0 BLACK SABBATH ANNOUNCE FOUR NORTH AMERICAN TOUR DATES TICKETS ON SALE SATURDAY, APRIL 20
BLACK SABBATH have announced four summer shows in North America in support of the release of their new album, 13, due out June 11. Tickets for the Live Nation-produced tour will go on sale Saturday, April 20 at LiveNation.com and Ticketmaster.com. The dates include stops in Holmdel, NJ (NY-area), Los Angeles, Seattle and Toronto, ON. Tickets for these shows go on sale Saturday, April 20. Beginning today, fans can click here or visit http://bit.ly/Sabbath_RSVP to RSVP for early access to presale tickets available Thursday, April 18. VIP Packages are also available at VIPNation.com.
In addition, in advance of the release of 13, the album’s first single “God Is Dead?” will debut across Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s more than 40 Active Rock and Mainstream Rock radio stations nationwide on Thursday, April 18 at 3:00 PM (ET)/12 Noon (PT). Produced by Rick Rubin (seven-time Grammy winner, two of those as Producer of the Year), 13 features the original BLACK SABBATH: OZZY OSBOURNE, TONY IOMMI and GEEZER BUTLER.
DATE CITY VENUE
Sun, 8-4 Holmdel, NJ PNC Bank Arts Center
Wed, 8-14 Toronto, ON Air Canada Centre
Sat, 8-24 Seattle, WA Gorge Amphitheatre
Tue, 9-3 Los Angeles, CA Los Angeles Sports Arena
www.blacksabbath.com
http://www.facebook.com/BlackSabbath
http://twitter.com/OfficialSabbath
http://instagram.com/officialsabbath/
0 BLACK SABBATH ‘13’ ALBUM COVER AND TRACK LISTING REVEALED
The album artwork and track listing for 13–the first new studio album in 35 years from the original BLACK SABBATH–have now been revealed. In classic SABBATH fashion, the CD, due out June 11, comes in at nearly sixty minutes in just eight songs.
For the recording of 13, BLACK SABBATH–OZZY OSBOURNE, TONY IOMMI and GEEZER BUTLER–were joined at the sessions by drummer Brad Wilk (Rage Against The Machine). Produced by Rick Rubin (seven-time Grammy winner, two of those as Producer of the Year), the album will be released on Vertigo (worldwide) and Vertigo/Republic in the U.S.
The 13 track listing is as follows:
1. End Of The Beginning (8:07)
2. God Is Dead? (8:54)
3. Loner (5:06)
4. Zeitgeist (4:28)
5. Age Of Reason (7:02)
6. Live Forever (4:49)
7. Damaged Soul (7:43)
8. Dear Father (7:06)
0 BLACK SABBATH’S ‘13’ Set For June 11 Release, Pre-Orders Available Now; Second Clip On Making Of The Album Released Today
BLACK SABBATH’S
‘13’
SET FOR JUNE 11 RELEASE
CD, DELUXE 2 CD SET, VINYL AND SUPER DELUXE BOX SET OF
‘13’
AVAILABLE NOW VIA PRE-ORDER
AT WWW.BLACKSABBATH.COM
SECOND CLIP ON MAKING OF
THE MUCH-ANTICIPATED ‘13’
RELEASED TODAY
As the countdown for the June 11 arrival of BLACK SABBATH’s 13 gets closer, the second Jack Osbourne-directed clip of the rock legends at work on the album can now be seen at the band’s website: http://www.blacksabbath.com. YouTube direct link: http://youtu.be/p6h6bUVZbDo and YouTube embed code (for website embeds): http://www.youtube.com/embed/p6h6bUVZbDo
Beginning today, 13 will be available for pre-order on a variety of formats via http://www.blacksabbath.com. Options include:
• Standard CD album
• Deluxe double CD album in a deluxe soft-pack (includes a second disc of exclusive bonus audio material)
• Vinyl: a 12” heavyweight (180g) vinyl album in a gatefold sleeve
• Super Deluxe Box Set: a Limited edition 12” clamshell box set which contains: Deluxe double CD album, 12” heavyweight (180g) vinyl album in a gatefold sleeve, Exclusive DVD containing “Black Sabbath–The Re-union” documentary, plus 5 behind-the-scenes videos, Download card containing exclusive track by track interview with Black Sabbath, 13 exclusive photographic prints and hand written album lyrics.
In addition, anyone who pre-orders any of these formats via http://www.blacksabbath.com will be entered into a drawing to win a pair of VIP tickets to an official 13 album launch event in London, including a meet and greet with the band, flights and accommodation Additional details and full terms and conditions on the contest can be found at http://www.blacksabbath.com.
On the live front, BLACK SABBATH will launch their world tour with a series of dates kicking off next month in New Zealand, Australia and Japan.
13 was recorded primarily in Los Angeles and features the original BLACK SABBATH–OZZY OSBOURNE (vocals), TONY IOMMI (guitar) and GEEZER BUTLER (bass)–who were joined at the sessions by drummer Brad Wilk (Rage Against The Machine). Produced by Rick Rubin (seven-time Grammy winner, two of those as Producer of the Year), the album will be released on Vertigo (worldwide) and Vertigo/Republic in the U.S.
BLACK SABBATH’s overseas dates are as follows:
DATE CITY VENUE
Sat 4/20 Auckland, New Zealand Vector Arena
Mon 4/22 Auckland, New Zealand Vector Arena
Thu 4/25 Brisbane, Australia Entertainment Centre
Sat 4/27 Sydney, Australia All Phones Arena
Mon 4/29 Melbourne, Australia Rod Laver Arena
Wed 5/1 Melbourne, Australia Rod Laver Arena
Sat 5/4 Perth, Australia Perth Arena
Tues 5/7 Adelaide, Australia Adelaide Entertainment Center
Sun 5/12 Tokyo, Japan Ozzfest – Makuhari Messe
http://www.facebook.com/BlackSabbath
0 FIRST VIDEO CLIP FROM MAKING OF BLACK SABBATH’S ‘13’ UNVEILED
Rock legends BLACK SABBATH are seen at work on their new album, 13, which will be released this June (exact date TBA). The original BLACK SABBATH—OZZY OSBOURNE (vocals), TONY IOMMI (guitar) and GEEZER BUTLER (bass)–recorded the album primarily in Los Angeles and were joined at the sessions by drummer Brad Wilk (Rage Against The Machine). Produced by Rick Rubin (seven-time Grammy winner, two of those as Producer of the Year), the album will be released on Vertigo (worldwide) and Vertigo/Republic in the U.S.
0 New Black Sabbath Album “13” Coming in June!
Rock legends BLACK SABBATH have announced the title of their new album, 13, which will be released this June (exact date TBA). The original BLACK SABBATH—OZZY OSBOURNE (vocals), TONY IOMMI (guitar) and GEEZER BUTLER (bass)–have recorded the album primarily in Los Angeles and were joined at the sessions by drummer Brad Wilk (Rage Against The Machine). Produced by Rick Rubin (seven-time Grammy winner, two of those as Producer of the Year), the album will be released on Vertigo (worldwide) and Vertigo/Republic in the U.S. 13 marks the Grammy-winning, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees’ return to Vertigo, the band’s original label; it’s the group’s first studio album together since 1978’s Never Say Die! They have sold over 70 million albums together.
In advance of the album’s release, BLACK SABBATH will head to New Zealand, Australia and Japan for live performances (see below for tour dates). Additional tour plans will be revealed in the coming months.
BLACK SABBATH’s initial tour dates are as follows:
DATE CITY VENUE
Sat 4/20 Auckland, New Zealand Vector Arena
Mon 4/22 Auckland, New Zealand Vector Arena
Thu 4/25 Brisbane, Australia Entertainment Centre
Sat 4/27 Sydney, Australia All Phones Arena
Mon 4/29 Melbourne, Australia Rod Laver Arena
Wed 5/1 Melbourne, Australia Rod Laver Arena
Sat 5/4 Perth, Australia Perth Arena
Sun 5/12 Tokyo, Japan Ozzfest – Makuhari Messe
http://www.facebook.com/BlackSabbath
0 Black Sabbath/Bill Ward Photo Statement
“At the request of Bill Ward, through his attorney, so as to not give the public the wrong impression about his involvement in the current Black Sabbath lineup, we have temporarily removed Bill Ward’s images from the main pages of the blacksabbath.com official website. In accordance with Bill Ward’s attorney’s request, we are doing so for the duration of the forthcoming shows.” — BLACK SABBATH
Hard Rock Hideout note: Bill Ward has been photoshopped out of all pictures at Back Sabbath.com.
0 Black Sabbath Regarding Bill Ward’s Statement – “No Comment”
Black Sabbath released the following regarding Bill Ward’s recent statement:
We have decided not to make any detailed comment on Bill’s latest statement. There are two sides to every story. We have been working hard at rehearsals making excellent progress after Tony’s treatments and we have engaged a substitute drummer for the forthcoming shows. See you at Download.
–Black Sabbath, 5/17/12
The following is Bill Ward’s Statement about his status in Black Sabbath:
Dear Sabbath Fans and Fellow Musicians,
I sincerely regret to inform you that after a final effort to participate in the upcoming Sabbath shows a failure to agree has continued. At this time I have to inform you that I won’t be playing with Black Sabbath at the Birmingham gig dated May 19th, 2012, nor will I be playing at Download on June 10th, 2012. Further, I will not be playing at Lollapalooza on August 3rd, 2012.
It is with a very sad heart that I bring you this news. I am sincerely passionate in my desire to play with the band, and I’m very, very sorry that it’s fallen to this. This statement is even more painstaking to write, as I was particularly excited to play alongside Tony Iommi after the recent treatments he underwent. I wanted that to become a reality.
To express my thoughts about you, the Sabbath fans, I’m going to speak to you all through an experience my brother James had recently. My brother Jimmy lives in the UK. When speaking with him a couple of days ago, he told me that an acquaintance had stopped him on the street and confronted him, “is your brother playing Birmingham? What’s going on? I waited in line with my son and paid x amount for the concert tickets.”
The man’s son is a young drummer. He’s going to see Sabbath, and he wants to see Bill Ward play drums. Upon hearing this news, I felt horrible. I couldn’t help feeling some resentment towards the failure to reach an agreement, the failure to remember where we came from, the failure to be as brothers, as we once were. To be clear, I’m not blaming the other guys or finding any faults with them. I would think it can’t be easy for them either, but this situation is just really sad. It’s sad that it’s come to this. “This” will surely leave a mark and be unwelcome to the memory. Hopefully “this” will heal and pass in time.
My heart sank when Jimmy told me about this young boy. I know this boy is going to be disappointed, and I don’t know how to amend it, other than to put my arms around the boy and tell him I love him. Sabbath fans have a voice and a face, to me you’re human, you have families and despair. You have ferocity and emotions and graciousness, and at this moment as far as I’m concerned you are also that young boy in England. I don’t know how to amend my part in these failings other than to put my arms around you and say I love you and let you know I’m very, very sorry.
Throughout this process, which began over a year ago, I have had to stand up for myself time and time again. I have had to stand up for myself and in doing so realize my actions indirectly, although unintentionally, are upsetting and hurting a lot of you. I know in my heart I couldn’t have done these concerts by agreeing the terms suggested. I made a solemn vow after the last European and Ozzfest concerts that I would never again enter into what was, in my opinion, a totally unsatisfactory contract. I have to stand for something, and as painful as it is, I’m doing it.
Earlier in April 2012, I’d been asked to participate “minimally” in the Download festival. I believe I’d been offered no more than three songs to play while another drummer presumably played the rest of the show with Black Sabbath. I was not willing to participate in that offer. I was not prepared to watch another drummer play a Sabbath set, while I was to play only three songs.
I found out about the Birmingham gig on Monday, April 30th through the Internet ad. I was taken aback somewhat by the date, and the fact it was Birmingham. Knowing the “signable” contract negotiations were at best in shreds, I was upset by the idea that the band was going to play Birmingham and play it assumedly without me. I had no prior knowledge of the date and location, and I felt totally excluded. We contacted the representative for Black Sabbath to see if something could be worked out. In the meantime my drum crew and I, along with our US endorsers, finished all the necessary planning for a swift departure to the UK. There wasn’t a whole lot to complete; we’d all been on standby more or less since mid-January 2012. The remaining work in the UK was confirmed done by our European and UK endorsers and we were good to go by Friday, May 4th 2012. There were two stress points: firstly, getting an agreement in place, and secondly, getting to England in a timely manner. Jetlag time was taken into account as well as drum practice, a drum practice room in the heart of Birmingham, accommodation, and travel arrangements were all in place to meet with any band rehearsals that may have transpired before the Birmingham show. So far everything that had been arranged was on my dime, but we didn’t move ahead without a realistic confirmation.
Communications between the representative and my lawyer continued through the weekend of May 5th finalizing on Wednesday, May 9th. The offer we received on May 9th was, “come to the UK, play for free and see how the first show goes.” I was tempted. Playing for free would not have been a problem for me, but “seeing how the first show goes” left an element of risk which could have affected Download. My ideal thought was to play in full the Birmingham show, in full Download, and in full Lollapalooza.
I had notified the representative that May 10th was my cutoff day in order to have good lead-in time for England. On the night of May 9th I asked for a brief letter to be sent to the representative asking to find out if we were at an end. On the morning of Thursday, May 10th, I received a reply in the affirmative. After consulting with my advisors and crew a decision was made to let go and stop.
I can’t prioritize the Sabbath fans making one show more important than the other. I can’t do that. All of you are important. It’s all the gigs or none at all. I can’t come to Birmingham and “see what happens” knowing there is a risk of not being able to play Download or Lollapalooza. Again, for me, it’s all or nothing. I had to say “no” to Birmingham on the principle of wanting to play all the shows. Saying no to Birmingham is very difficult for me. My family grew up in Birmingham. Black Sabbath grew up in Birmingham. It’s still my hometown and I resent having to arrive at such a difficult choice.
Although the statement was made that, “the door is always open” for me, as explained above, walking through that door is not always as easy as it sounds. There are many complicated issues and unseen and unspoken agendas on hand. I can assure you, my criteria for a “signable” contract is based in mindful principles, respectability, and acknowledgement of my history within the band.
I hold no malice or resentment towards the other band members. I love them; I’m tolerant of them; I’m frustrated with them, as they may be with me. My fight has never been with them. I’ll love them forever. In my opinion, nobody wins this time; the band doesn’t win; the fans for an original lineup don’t win. Nobody wins, nobody. Even the ones who thought they did.
I didn’t want to make this decision, but I have to be honest and transparent. This is the statement I didn’t want to write; it’s the last thing I wanted to do. But, I have written it, and now it can go into the universe.
Since spring of 2011, I’ve waited patiently and hopefully for a signable contract, you know the rest. I stand for the boy in the U.K., for the coming drum student, for all the drummers, who write their parts out and get stiffed on the publishing, I stand with the Sabbath fans chanting “Bill Ward” and asking “why?” and I stand with Tony and Geezer and Ozzy.
On a final note, even though I’m at an end with the upcoming announced concerts, I will remain with an open mind and a position of willingness to negotiate “signable” terms with Sabbath’s representatives in the future.
Stay strong. Stay safe.
With all my heart and strength, I love you,
Bill Ward.
1 Black Sabbath Announces New Date
Black Sabbath will play the Birmingham O2 Academy on May 19.
The low-key date is the band’s third confirmed appearance after they replaced their planned world tour with an ‘Ozzy Osbourne & Friends’ billing, following guitarist Tony Iommi’s diagnosis of cancer. He’s completed chemotherapy and continues to recuperate
Sabbath, without original drummer Bill Ward, will appear at this year’s Download Festival at Donington, UK, in June and also at Lollapalooza, Chicago, US, in August.
The Birmingham warm-up is their first hometown appearance in 13 years. Tickets go on sale on Friday.
Sabbath are currently working on their first original-lineup studio album in 33 years with producer Rick Rubin.
2 Tony Iommi Diagnosed With Lymphoma
With the news that Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi has been diagnosed with the early stages of lymphoma, his bandmates would like everyone to send positive vibes to the guitarist at this time. Iommi is currently working with his doctors to establish the best treatment plan–the “IRON MAN” of Rock & Roll remains upbeat and determined to make a full and successful recovery.
This comes as Black Sabbath–Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass) and Bill Ward (drums)–are writing and recording their first album in 33 years in Los Angeles (still set for release this fall) with producer Rick Rubin. They will now go to the UK to continue to work with Tony. Further information will be released as it becomes available.
4 Black Sabbath To Reunite in 2012!
Black Sabbath has announced that they will reunite in 2012, with a new studio album, a world tour, and the band will be headlining the Download Festival next year. Check out the video announcement below!!
0 The Return of Black Sabbath?
SundayMercury.net is reporting the following:
Black Sabbath to reform with original line-up and new studio album
THE most closely guarded secret in rock music can be revealed – the original Black Sabbath line-up is getting back together.
Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward have begun rehearsing for a tour and new studio album.
In June this year vocalist Ozzy and guitarist Iommi wrote new material for a record that will be released next year.
‘‘We’re really looking forward to it and I think the stuff we’ve been writing is really good,’’ said 63-year-old Iommi. ‘‘It’s more back to the old original stuff.’’
He added that the reunion has been kept under wraps for some time.
‘‘It’s all been very hush-hush. Ozzy’s been the worst at trying to hold it back. He’s doing a lot of TV and he’s being asked stuff about a reunion and he’s going ‘well I never say never’.
‘‘He told me, ‘I don’t know what to say’.’’
Iommi’s last version of Black Sabbath, called Heaven & Hell, came to an end when singer Ronnie James Dio died in May 2010.
‘‘I had umpteen number of people on the phone asking if I fancied getting together with a band but I couldn’t tell them what I was doing. I just had to say I was busy.’’
The classic line-up of Black Sabbath formed in Aston in 1969.
Ozzy was fired from the band in 1979 and there has since been many different members since.
Iommi said his only concern about the current reformation was the health of drummer Bill Ward who in the past has suffered a heart attack.
‘‘He hasn’t been 100 per cent. He had an operation a few months ago, so we’ll see how he is.’’
2 Hard Rock Hideout Salutes the Fallen Rockers of April 5th!
April 5th is a horrible day for hard rock. On this day, we lost not one, but four hard rock greats that I will not soon forget.
Cozy Powell (Black Sabbath) 1998, Kurt Cobain (Nirvana) 1994, Mark St. John (KISS) 2007, and Layne Staley (Alice in Chains) 2002 all died on this fate filled day.
Far too may rockers have died on this day! Their incredible legacies have left behind some awesome tunes for us to enjoy. Check out Black Sabbath’s “Headless Cross”, “Heaven’s on Fire” from KISS, “Man in The Box” from Alice in Chains and “Lithium” from Nirvana in the videos below.
Vodpod videos no longer available. Vodpod videos no longer available. Vodpod videos no longer available. Vodpod videos no longer available.0 BLACK SABBATH “LIVE AT HAMMERSMITH ODEON” 3-LP 180 GRAM VINYL OUT NOW
Heavy Metal legends Black Sabbath have released BLACK SABBATH: LIVE AT HAMMERSMITH ODEON, a 3-LP 180 gram vinyl with a triple gatefold packaging. This release is limited to 3,000 numbered copies and is a Metal Club exclusive, so make sure to snatch yours up at a participating retailer now before it sells out!
Black Sabbath: Live At Hammersmith Odeon features Ronnie James Dio, Tommy Iommi, Terry “Geezer” Butler and Vinny Appice LIVE at Hammersmith Odeon in January 1982 during Black Sabbath’s tour for The Mob Rules.
Available for the first time on limited-edition numbered vinyl, the concert spotlights Black Sabbath as they storm through 14 of the Dio-era’s best including, “Neon Knights,” “Heaven And Hell,” “Children Of The Sea” and “Country Girl.” The band also performs several pre-Dio classics including, “Paranoid,” “Children Of The Grave” and a white-hot version of “War Pigs.”
About Metal Club:
Metal Club is a group of record stores throughout the US and Canada that work to connect the vibrant metal community with their local record store. Fans will be able to visit their local Metal Club store for special metal promotional pieces, exciting in-store events, and a series of exclusive Metal Club releases. Please visit www.mymetalclub.com for store locations, news and information on other Metal Club releases.
4 Black Sabbath Featuring Tony Iommi – Seventh Star (2010 Reissue)
One of my favorite reissues released in 2010, is the Deluxe Edition of Black Sabbath’s Seventh Star. Seventh Star was originally released in January of 1986. The story behind Seventh Star has been well documented. This was supposed to be a Tony Iommi solo CD, but the record company pressured Iommi to release this a Black Sabbath CD. That is abridged version of the story, but if you check out the booklet that is included in this two CD set, it will tell you the complete details about Seventh Star. There are also some cool pictures of the band as well.
How is the music on Seventh Star? I wouldn’t call it unSabbath like. It isn’t as heavy, or doom laden as most of Black Sabbath’s stuff but it is very good. The bass from Dave Spitz is nowhere near as heavy as that of Geezer Butler, but due to the nature of the music, it works, and works well. Tony Iommi’s riffs are awesome as always, and Glenn Hughes vocals are perfect. While this CD may not be as heavy as other albums in the Black Sabbath discography, it is awesome in its own right.
The song “In For The Kill” is an excellent tune. It is a shame that this tune doesn’t get more airplay. This hard rocking number ought to be up there with Sabbath’s best. “No Stranger to Love” is a powerful slow number. Geoff Nicholls keyboard work on this song brings the classic Sabbath album Heaven and Hell to mind. Eric Singer shows off his mad drum skills on the rocker “Turn To Stone”. Tony Iommi may have been a genius nabbing Glenn Hughes to sing on this CD. His vocals are as good as it gets. I have always been a fan of Glenn Hughes since his Deep Purple days, but I think Iommi’s playing may complement his voice even more. If Black Sabbath doesn’t reunite with Ozzy Osbourne, Glenn Hughes ought to be given a strong look. Needless to say, I have no problem listening to Seventh Star over and over again. It is a very underrated recording in the Sabbath discography.
With the newly reissued Deluxe Edition, you get a really cool fold out digipack case with band pictures, and a nicely put together booklet. The second CD features the late Ray Gillen (Badlands) singing with Black Sabbath Live at the Hammersmith Odeon in 1986. The Live recording isn’t what I would consider pristine, but it something I have looked forward to owning for years. It has only been available in bootleg formats prior to this release. Gillen’s vocals sound fantastic on both the Ozzy Osbourne, Ronnie James Dio, and Glenn Hughes tracks. For my ears, the second CD alone is worth the price of admission. The audio quality isn’t the greatest, but it preserves a piece of Metal history, with a singer who should have been one of Metal’s biggest stars.
If you are a Black Sabbath fan, and have never picked up Seventh Star before. This is the version to own! It may not be the preferred Black Sabbath lineup, and the original recording is somewhat short, but it is still a very solid effort from Tony Iommi and company! Recommended!
Rating: 
Out of 10
Track Listing
Disc One
1. In for the Kill
2. No Stranger to Love
3. Turn to Stone
4. Sphinx (The Guardian)
5. Seventh Star
6. Danger Zone
7. Heart Like a Wheel
8. Angry Heart
9. In Memory…
10. No Stranger To Love (Alternate Version)*Bonus Track
Disc Two
Live At the Hammersmith Odeon, London, 2nd June 1986
1. Mob Rules
2. Danger Zone
3. War Pigs
4. Seventh Star
5. Die Young
6. Black Sabbath
7. N.I.B.
8. Neon Knights
9. Paranoid
Black Sabbath is:
Tony Iommi – Guitars
Glenn Hughes – Vocals
Eric Singer – Drums
Dave “The Beast” Spitz – Bass
Geoff Nicholls – Keyboards
Gordon Copley – Bass on “No Stranger To Love”
Ray Gillen – vocals (on – Disc 2)
1 Classic Video – Black Sabbath – Heaven & Hell Live
The only singer I have ever seen that could come close to matching Ronnie James Dio’s vocals on the classic Black Sabbath tune “Heaven & Hell” is Ray Gillen. Check out this clip with the late Ray Gillen on vocals live from Montreal in 1986.
5 Black Sabbath Eternal Idol and Seventh Star Deluxe Editions Availalble Now
Black Sabbath has released Deluxe Editions of their classic discs Eternal Idol & Seventh Star.
Eternal Idol is digitally all-remastered and expanded edition of this 1987 album including two bonus tracks on Disc One plus the complete album session originally recorded by the late Ray Gillen on Disc Two. The Eternal Idol, Sabbath’s 13th studio album, was an altogether harder sounding record and brought back an ‘edge’ that had been missing from Seventh Star. Whilst there was much for the Sabbath fan to celebrate with tracks such as, ‘The Shining’, ‘Ancient Warrior’, ‘Born To Lose’ and the title track, the album wasn’t as well received and settled at number 66 in the UK and a disappointing 168 in the US.
Over the years however, fans of Black Sabbath and hard rock in general have been re-discovering all that The Eternal Idol has to offer.
Eternal Idol Track Listing
1. The Shining (5:58)
2. Ancient Warrior (5:34)
3. Hard Life to Love (5:00)
4. Glory Ride (4:48)
5. Born to Lose (3:43)
6. Nightmare (5:17)
7. Scarlet Pimpernel (2:07)
8. Lost Forever (4:00)
9. Eternal Idol (6:35)
10. Black Moon (2010 Deluxe Only)
11. Some Kind of Woman (2010 Deluxe Only)
Disc 2 (2010 Deluxe Only)
1. Glory Ride
2. Born to Lose
3. Lost Forever
4. Eternal Idol
5. The Shining
6. Hard Life to Love
7. Nightmare
8. Ancient Warrior
Digitally remastered and expanded deluxe two CD edition of this 1986 album including bonus tracks. Seventh Star was the 12th official Black Sabbath studio album and reached the #27 position in the UK and #78 in the US. This expanded edition of the album adds the U.S. remix of the ‘No Stranger To Love’ single and also for the very first time on CD, a live performance from London’s Hammersmith Odeon in June ’86 which features then unknown American singer, Ray Gillen on lead vocals.
Seventh Star Track Listing
Disc 1
1. In for the Kill (3:40)
2. No Stranger to Love (4:28)
3. Turn to Stone (3:28)
4. Sphinx (The Guardian) (1:11)
5. Seventh Star (5:20)
6. Danger Zone (4:23)
7. Heart Like a Wheel (6:35)
8. Angry Heart (3:06)
9. In Memory … (2:35)
10. No Stranger To Love (Remix, 2010 Expanded Edition Only)
Disc 2 (Live, 2010 Expanded Edition Only)
1. Mob Rules
2. Danger Zone
3. War Pigs
4. Seventh Star
5. Die Young
6. Black Sabbath
7. N.I.B.
8. Neon Knights
9. Paranoid.
who was brought-in to complete the tour following the departure of Glenn Hughes due to illness.
HRH Comment: The Second Disc featuring the late Ray Gillen is worth grabbing both of the remastered Sabbath discs above.
0 CLASSIC ALBUMS: BLACK SABBATH – PARANOID DVD AND BLU-RAY IN STORES NOW!
SECOND EXCLUSIVE VIDEO CLIP FROM FEATURE IS AVAILABLE HERE
The long-awaited feature, Classic Albums: Black Sabbath – Paranoid, has finally hit stores today. Eagle Rock Entertainment’s acclaimed and award-winning Classic Albums series uncovers the story of the making of the legendary heavy metal album. Available on DVD and Blu-Ray, the feature comes just in time for the 40th anniversary of Paranoid.
In a new clip just released online from the documentary, Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi and Bill Ward, along with punk icon Henry Rollins and legendary Warner Bros Records executive Joe Smith, discuss the band and the controversy around the Paranoid album.
Pick up Classic Albums: Black Sabbath – Paranoid at this link.
Direct link to video: http://vimeo.com/12951407
0 Black Sabbath Paranoid DVD Giveaway
On June 29th, Classic Albums: Black Sabbath – Paranoid will be released on DVD and Blu-ray. Eagle Rock Entertainment’s acclaimed and award-winning Classic Albums series will uncover the story of the making of this landmark heavy metal collection. Black Sabbath: Classic Albums – Paranoid is released, just in time for the 40th anniversary of the album. Clocking in at over 97 minutes, the documentary features brand new interviews with Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitars), Geezer Butler (bass), and Bill Ward (drums).
The DVD chronicles the creation of the locomotive force and unrelenting energy behind these tracks, which ignited an electrified and unforeseen brand of blues-rock. The comprehensive collection of interviews, demonstrations, archive videos, and feature cuts from timeless epics such as “War Pigs,” “Iron Man,” and the title track, is complemented with 40 minutes of bonus features. For the first time a classic album title is also released on Blu-Ray.
In a new clip just released from the documentary, Henry Rollins and legendary journalist Geoff Barton discuss the song “Fairies Wear Boots.” Also featured in the video clip is Paranoid engineer Tom Allom (Judas Priest, Def Leppard).
Vodpod videos no longer available.Hard Rock Hideout has two copies of the new DVD to giveaway! You have to prove that you are a true Black Sabbath fan for this one.
Name all of the singers that have recorded with Black Sabbath! If you can answer this question, place the answer in the box below, along with your name and email address to enter the contest.
0 Classic Albums: Black Sabbath – Paranoid Released on DVD and Blu-ray on June 29
It was big, menacing, controversial…and an absolute masterpiece. On June 29, Eagle Rock Entertainment’s acclaimed and award-winning Classic Albums series will uncover the story of its making. Black Sabbath: Classic Albums – Paranoid is released, just in time for the 40th anniversary of the album. [pre-book order date June 4, MSRP $14.98 for DVD, $19.98 for Blu-ray].
The Classic Albums series unwinds the threads of mystery behind artistic genius, recounting the experiences behind the board and through every chord. Unearthing the creative process of definitive albums from Elvis Presley, The Doors, Frank Zappa, Nirvana, Meat Loaf, Phil Collins, Bob Marley and many others, it will now dive into Black Sabbath’s 1970 tour de force.
Throughout the 97 minutes of this documentary, original members Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass), and Bill Ward (drummer), along with their original engineer, deliver the story behind Paranoid. The DVD chronicles the creation of the locomotive force and unrelenting energy behind these tracks, which ignited an electrified and unforeseen brand of blues-rock. The comprehensive collection of interviews, demonstrations, archive videos, and feature cuts from timeless epics such as “War Pigs,” “Iron Man,” and the title track, is complemented with 40 minutes of bonus features. For the first time a classic album title is also released on Blu-Ray.
Pick up Black Sabbath: Classic Albums – Paranoid at this link.
12 Rest In Peace – Ronnie James Dio (July 10, 1942 – May 16, 2010)
It has been a very slow news weekend in the metal world, so it saddens me to post the following info:
Ronnie James Dio, legendary vocalist for Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell and Dio, has died after a battle with stomach cancer, according to wife Wendy Dio. He was 67 years old.
The heavy metal singer died early this morning. He was being treated at M.D. Anderson in Houston.
A Twitter rumor circulated Saturday night that Dio had died. It caught fire so quickly that his wife had to issue a formal denial.
His wife released a new statement to blabbermouth.net today confirming his death:
Today my heart is broken, Ronnie passed away at 7:45 a.m. [on Sunday] 16th May. Many, many friends and family were able to say their private goodbyes before he peacefully passed away.
Ronnie knew how much he was loved by all.
We so appreciate the love and support that you have all given us.
Please give us a few days of privacy to deal with this terrible loss.
Please know he loved you all and his music will live on forever.
In my opinion, Ronnie James Dio is and always will be one of the greatest singers in the history of heavy metal. His has had some amazing accomplishments with Rainbow, Black Sabbath, and his solo band DIO. Our condolences and well wishes go out to Wendy Dio, and the entire DIO family, and friends. The metal world lost one of their greatest Icon’s today. Ronnie James Dio will be greatly missed.
0 Black Sabbath Tracks Hit Guitar Hero
Black Sabbath joins Guitar Hero with three of their most head bang-worthy tracks: “After Forever,” “Into The Void” and “Sweet Leaf.” These will be the first Black Sabbath master tracks for any music video game! Black Sabbath won’t take center stage until April 29th, but there’s plenty in the line up to keep your fingers ready for the heavy metal assault, including Lynyrd Skynyrd, Fall Out Boy, The All-American Rejects, Blur, Saving Abel and Phoenix. All tracks are available for Guitar Hero® 5 and Band Hero™.
The Guitar Hero music library has over 200 of the most fun to play/most challenging/most l33t/most (fill in the blank) tracks to download and rock out to! Connect your console and start building your collection!
0 OZZY OSBOURNE SPEAKS ABOUT BLACK SABBATH TRADEMARK ISSUE LAWSUIT
Below is a statement and press release from Ozzy on the official Black Sabbath trademark lawsuit:
I am very saddened that I’ve had to take legal action against Tony. This is something that I’ve tried to avoid for years. I am not Geezer or Bill’s voice. However, till the day I die I will not change my mind on this issue. The Black Sabbath trademark should be equally owned by Geezer, Bill, Tony and I as the true Black Sabbath lineup is Tony, Geezer, Bill and I. We’ve all been mates since school. I’ve always said there is an invisible thread that holds us together. Tony, lets get this ridiculous issue sorted and move on with our lives. You’re 61, I’m 60. I hope that we’ve got a good 20 years left in us. But if not, God forbid something happens to you. What’s going to happen to the Black Sabbath trademark? Who’s going to oversee it? Don’t you think after we’re long gone the rights should stay in your family, my family, Bill’s family and Geezer’s family?
Statement from OZZY OSBOURNE:
“It is with great regret that I had to resort to legal action against my long term partner, Tony Iommi, but after three years of trying to resolve this issue amicably, I feel I have no other recourse. As of the mid-1990’s, after constant and numerous changes in band members, the brand of ‘Black Sabbath’ was literally in the toilet and Tony Iommi (touring under the name Black Sabbath) was reduced to performing in clubs. Since 1997 when Geezer, Bill and myself rejoined the band, Black Sabbath has returned to its former glory as we headlined sold-out arenas and amphitheatres playing to upwards of 50,000 people at each show around the world. We worked collectively to restore credibility and bring dignity back to the name ‘Black Sabbath’ which lead to the band being inducted into the UK and US Rock & Roll Hall of Fames in 2005 and 2006, respectively. Throughout the last 12 years, it was my management representatives who oversaw the marketing and quality control of the ‘Black Sabbath’ brand through OZZFEST, touring, merchandising and album reissues. The name ‘Black Sabbath’ now has a worldwide prestige and merchandising value that it would not have had by continuing on the road it was on prior to the 1997 reunion tour. Tony, I am so sorry it’s had to get to this point by me having to take this action against you. I don’t have the right to speak for Geezer and Bill, but I feel that morally and ethically the trademark should be owned by the four of us equally. I hope that by me taking this first step that it will ultimately end up that way. We’ve all worked too hard and long in our careers to allow you to sell merchandise that features all our faces, old Black Sabbath album covers and band logos, and then you tell us that you own the copyright. We’re all in our 60’s now. The Black Sabbath legacy should live on long after we have all gone. Please do the right thing.”
0 Heaven & Hell To Hit the Road in May
The management for HEAVEN AND HELL – the legendary band featuring BLACK SABBATH icons Ronnie James Dio (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass) and Vinny Appice (drums) – have provided Black-sabbath.com webmaster Joe Siegler the following official, up-to-date list of dates for the band:
May
30 – Moscow, Russia – B1
31 – Moscow, Russia – B1
June
2 – Helsinki, Finland – Icehell
4 – Oslo, Norway – Spektrum
8 – Giessen, Germany – Hessenhallen
9 – Berlin, Germany – Zitadelle
10 – Bamburg, Germany – Jakoarena
13 – Bergum, Germany – Festivalterrein Zomerweg (Waldrock Festival)
14 – Kalsruhe, Germany – Europehalle
16 – Bonn, Germany – Museumsplatz
17 – Zurich, Germany – Volkshaus
The new Heaven And Hell album is now complete and will be released some time in March/April via Rhino. The group’s first LP since Sabbath’s Dehumanizer (1992) was recorded at Rockfield studios in Wales, UK (where Dehumanizer was also tracked).
Courtesy of Bravewords.com
3 Boneyard – Day #2
It appears that the format on XM Radio’s Boneyard has definitely changed. Their new format is, “Classic Rock that is Hard and Heavy”. Over the last couple of days I have heard heavy cuts from Motley Crue, Metallica, Megadeth, Rush, Aerosmith, The Cult, Black Sabbath and more. I can’t say that I have heard anything that truly falls under the hair metal envelope, so that is one major change to the Boneyard.
Still no sign of the familiar “Bone Me” either.
The station seems to be a little heavier than it used to be, but I have heard no new songs on the Boneyard and that is a complete disappointment.
Hopefully, it will get better as time goes on, but it is definitely not the same.
Hard Rock Hideout 