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THE REVIEW
"Sabotage": A MASTERPIECE ALBUM, and you all know that calling an album with Ozzy Osbourne on vocals a masterpiece costs me tears and blood.
"Sabotage" (1975) marks a sharp turn in the sound of Black Sabbath, who transition from the doom filled with slow and heavy riffs often tedious and self-serving (Read Warning rather than Hands Of Doom or the entirety of "Vol.4") of their early records to a stunning heavy metal/hard rock that truly rocks, with some brilliant insights from the immense Tony Iommi (always be praised).
The opener "Hole In The Sky" is already devastating on its own: a blistering riff that elevates these four minutes of total headbanging that unexpectedly fade into the brief acoustic instrumental "Don't Start (Too Late)", serving as a prelude to one of the most brilliant songs by Black Sabbath and rock in general: "Symptom Of The Universe", earth-shattering riff and formidable drum breaks for half the song, then seamlessly transitioning into acoustic and psychedelic sounds, all accompanied by a stunning text (if you want to hear this magnificent poetry sung as God intended, I highly recommend Sepultura's cover) "Megalomania" is if possible even more "out there" nine intense minutes that alternate between dense and rarefied sounds with sudden hard rock surges. The faded, reverberated introduction is genius (you know, to give Ozzy's voice any sense you must make him mumble or at best whisper, preventing him at all costs from attempting high notes that his very modest vocal range turns into irritating animal noises) "Thrill Of It All" is an authentic monument to the genius of the Pelé of guitarists Antonino Iommi: continuous and well-connected phrasing and solos, it could have been one of the best instrumentals in rock history.
One of the best instrumentals in rock history, however, is "Supertzar" three minutes of Iommi's massive riff echoed by solemn male and female choirs that alternate and chase each other. Ozzy's absence is a true godsend for this epic and solemn experiment, perfectly executed. "Am I Going Insane (Radio)" is a 4-minute song with very acidic and psychedelic sounds, personally it reminds me quite a bit of L7's "Pretend We're Dead". The masterpiece closes with the other epic track "The Writ" (8 minutes) rather similar to "Megalomania", but less dark and more freakish. A great song that closes a truly splendid album, where the immense abilities of Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward reach their peak.
One of the most horrific covers in history.
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Summary by Bot
The review praises Black Sabbath's 1975 album Sabotage as a masterpiece that marked a defining moment in the band's sound, blending heavy metal and hard rock expertly. The review highlights Tony Iommi's exceptional guitar work and the album's dynamic mix of heavy riffs, psychedelic and acoustic elements. Tracks like 'Symptom of the Universe' and 'Megalomania' are noted as standout moments, with the album showcasing peak musicianship from the band. Despite Ozzy Osbourne's limited vocal range, the album's musical depth shines through.Tracklist Lyrics Videos
Black Sabbath
English heavy metal band formed in Birmingham in 1968, widely credited as pioneers of heavy metal and led musically by guitarist Tony Iommi.91 Reviews
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