RICK HUGHES DELIVERS A SPECTACULAR SOLO ALBUM WITH ‘REDEMPTION,’ REUNITES MEMBERS OF ONE OF OZZY’S BEST LINE-UPS FOR COVER OF THE WHO’S “THE REAL ME”
Canadian-born Rick Hughes is renowned for his powerful and rangey voice as the lead singer of the legendary metal band Sword, and of the hard-rock band Saints & Sinners. A seasoned performer with hundreds of headlining shows in Canada, America, Europe and Japan over the years, and his superb stage performances while opening for bands such as Metallica, Motorhead, Alice Cooper, Black Label Society, etc.
So when it was time for him to record ‘’Redemption’’, his first international solo album, he spared no expenses and efforts to make this album a great one, hiring producer John Webster (Aerosmith, Mötley Crüe, AC/DC, etc.) and renting HippoSonic Recording Studio (formerly known as Little Mountain Studios) in Vancouver to record this opus.
The first salvo is coming out September 5, 2025, and it is quite an event in itself: his first single and video is a supercharged version of The Who’s classic ‘’The Real Me’’ – reuniting after 43 years Ozzy Osbourne’s 1982 band consisting of Brad Gillis on guitar, Rudy Sarzo on bass, and Tommy Aldridge on drums. This is the band that did the last leg of the ‘’Diary of a Madman Tour’’ in 1982 after the tragic departure of the great Randy Rhoads, and that then recorded Ozzy’s classic live album ‘’Speak of the Devil’’.
*Pick up the Limited Edition Bundle (100 copies) that includes a collectible 7” vinyl of the “Real Me” signed by Rick Hughes, Brad Gillis, Tommy Aldridge, and Rudy Sarzo.
The resulting sound is epic, and so is the spectacular video that was shot and directed by Matthew Lucas (Kringle Time, Moonshot, We Meet Again, etc.) at the state-of-the-art L.A. Castle Studios, with post and editing by Montreal’s Jean-Marc Laurin (Jurassic World, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Game of Thrones, Assassin’s Creed, etc.).
”The Real Me stands as a cornerstone of my album ‘Redemption’,” says Rick. “As a lifelong fan of The Who, I wanted to pay tribute to the golden age of 70s rock. To capture that spirit, I brought together a true supergroup with Tommy Aldridge, Rudy Sarzo and Brad Gillis, a unique moment where legends unite to breathe new life into a classic.”
“This very special song is part of the upcoming Rick Hughes Album ‘Redemption,’ a collection of great rock songs to be released on Friday, October 24 2025 on CD, Vinyl, and Digital format worldwide by Deko Entertainment, and featuring more great collaborations with some famous musicians.
Included are 2 more songs featuring the superb songwriting and inspired guitar playing of the great Brad Gillis, another featuring the extraordinary talent of The Door’s legendary guitarist Robby Krieger, and great contributions from rock royalty Lee Aaron, vocal powerhouse Amy Keys (Ringo Starr, Phil Collins, Toto, Sting, Stevie Wonder, etc.), rising guitar hot shot Jacob Deraps, as well as Rick’s gifted sister, Lulu Hughes.
With its great performances, ‘Redemption’ is a very special and unique rock album that brings together 7 songs in English, 1 bilingual and 2 songs in French.
‘REDEMPTION’ TRACKLIST:
Vinyl version:
Side A: 1 ) Dead End Road 2 ) Croire En l’Homme 3 ) The Real Me 4 ) Carry The Torch 5 ) Will of the Gun
Side B: 1 ) Shake My Soul 2 ) Someday 3 ) Dans La Peau 4 ) In a Perfect World 5 ) Ça Va Brasser
CD Version:
1 ) Dead End Road 2 ) Croire en l’Homme 3 ) The Real Me 4 ) Carry The Torch 5 ) Will of the Gun 6 ) Shake My Soul 7 ) Someday 8 ) Dans La Peau 9 ) In a Perfect World 10 ) Ça Va Brasser 11 ) Bonus Track: Dans La Peau (french version)
Canadian hard-rock band LOVER have been out playing together for well over a year now, and recently released a 2-song cassette, consisting of a pair of kick-a*s 80s influenced rockers – “Fatal Attraction” and “Bad Love”. Lover is working on more songs, as well as getting more shows booked.
In this exchange , drummer Hunter Raymond discusses the band’s brief history, their recordings, future plans, and more. Check out the tracks, as well as ordering info and links (below).
Can you give me a bit of pre-history to what lead to Lover coming together?
Hunter: I had recently moved back to Calgary from Toronto, and I knew Jacob and Chris from partying and playing shows in the past with my old band MIDNIGHT MALICE. Jacob and Aidan have another band together called FLASHBACK, which is more of a hard rock band. I went to see their show, secretly scouting, and after they played, I was convinced they were the guys I wanted to start a band with. As it turns out, Aidan had a whole stockpile of riffs that were too metal for flashback. Jacob convinced Aidan I was the man for the job by showing him old Midnight Malice footage. Chris, whom I hadn’t seen in years, happened to be at the flashback gig that night, and we talked about jamming and said we would get together soon. Cale from RIOT CITY was also there and mentioned to Aidan and Jacob that they should ask Chris to play in their new metal project. It was all meant to be, really; we all wanted to start a band with each other without even knowing it. From the first chords struck, we all knew this was going to be something special.
You guys have a 2 song ep out, on cassette — Is there more tracks recorded? and why did you choose to release just these specific 2?
At the moment, we only have demos recorded, nothing we would release to the public. We chose those 2 songs because they were the first ones we had solid. All of us were really excited about the sound and wanted to get the ball rolling, become a legit band. The best way to know if you are any good is to share it with the world. Let there be judgment!
Why a cassette release, as opposed to just digital or CD?
Collectors still enjoy tapes, so that’s what we went for. We are only doing a limited run, so grab them while you can!
It would be cool to press it on a 45 record in the future. People still want to hold onto the real thing; streaming is so impersonal. We wanted something for the people to own.
Can you give me a few favorite bands, musicians, and a short list of favorite albums growing up?
The hardest question to answer is, there is so much good music out there! Thin Lizzy for sure, Phil Lynott amazing songwriter, and Brian Downey is an absolute monster of a drummer. Deep Purple, Judas Priest, and Aerosmith, I love those bands. We all really like Sweet and their album Desolation Boulevard. I was really into Motley Crue, Motorhead, UK Subs, and G.B.H. when I was younger; I’ve always been a bit of a punker. My first Motorhead record was Iron Fist. I got it when I was about 13-14. I snuck away from a school trip in Halifax to find a record store. I had only heard of Motorhead up until then, and they didn’t disappoint! Iron Fist will always be in my top 10.
When might we see a full-length album from Lover? Is there any label or outside producer you are working with?
So far, no labels or producers, Aidan and I are the producers mainly. Aidan is also a good recording engineer so he is doing all of that. He recorded, mixed, and mastered the Fatal Attraction EP. My drum tracks are all done for the full length, and the boys are working on their guitars as we speak! We are planning on having it all done for the new year, so early 2026, we will have it ready for all you headbangers!
How many songs do you guys have prepared or working on? And what can people expect song wise?
The full length will be 9 songs, and they all sound different. We like to try and get different feelings for every song, to keep people interested. Some fast ones, some groovers, some melodic and technical songs. They all sound like us, though, and they all rock!
No ballads yet. We also have about 3-4 more songs we are working on for the 2nd album, and we aren’t slowing down anytime soon!
Can you explain a bit about where song ideas come from, and how songs are put together by you guys? (Lyrically and musically)
Musically, Aidan writes almost all of the riffs; he usually has a style of song he wants to write. Then we will go jam his riffs to get a solid structure and record a demo. I write 95% of the lyrics. I take the demo home to write the lyrics. The guys will sometimes give me a theme or song title to work from. The Lyrics are mostly about real-life experiences, some are fantastic stories I make up. I wrote one song about Jacob and his sweet 1963 Plymouth Valiant, which is called “On the Road’ What a sexy car! Girls are obviously a subject but we try to be creative and not write the same song twice. Basically, whatever vibe the riffs have dictates the lyrics.
What is the music scene like in Calgary, especially for bands trying to push original songs? Or is the scene kinda geared towards cover bands (as it is here in the Niagara region) ?
I’m sure there is a cover band scene here, but I don’t see it. That being said, there are plenty of original bands that do really well crowd-wise here; people love to come out and support local shows, which is awesome. There aren’t too many bands like us, though. The scene here is more aggressive, darker metal or punk. We don’t always fit the bill, but people love us all the same; we are their guilty pleasure.
What does your set list comprise of? Mostly (or all) originals? Any particular covers?
We play all originals; one of us always suggests a cover, but they never seem to materialize. I’m sure one day we will find one we all agree upon. The most recent idea is “Set Me Free” by Sweet. Will it actually happen? Only time will tell.
What have been a few of the bigger shows, festivals you’ve been part? Any opening slots for anyone major?
We have only been playing shows for about 1 year, and already had the pleasure of playing the Electric Highway Festival here in Calgary, and Armstrong Metal Fest in the BC interior this summer. Armstrong was headlined by HAVOK, BORN OF OSIRIS, and our good friends RIOT CITY. Electric Highway headliners were BISON, CASTLE, and LA CHINGA. Both of those festivals were an absolute blast and we can’t wait for more opportunities like those!
What do you guys have coming up? Any international interest or show offers further east?
We have our songs playing internationally, but no show offers as of yet. An East coast tour for spring/summer of 2026 is in the works, so hopefully we get out there to see you soon. I know a lot of amazing Bands out East who want to get shows going with us, so expect fully stacked bills and pure rock n roll mania when it happens!! LONG LIVE ROCK N ROLL
Aidan Desmarais – lead vocals, guitar Hunter Raymond – drums, vocals Jacob Chase – bass guitar Christopher LoNigro – guitar
MORE released 2 albums back in the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal period, and both with very different line-ups. It is the band’s debut Warhead that is the better of the 2 and of most interest. On the debut MORE consisted of bassist Brian Day, drummer Fran Darch, guitarists Laurie Mansworth and Kenny Cox, and singer Paul Mario Day, who was known to many as the first Iron Maiden singer. MORE were signed to Atlantic Records (UK, US, etc..) and with US Southern rockers Blackfoot also being on Atlantic (and very popular in the UK at the time) Al Nalli (producer/manager- Brownsville Station, Blackfoot) and Henry Weck (Brownsville Station) were brought in to produce the first album.
The band had debuted on the Friday Rock Show in 1980, playing 4 songs.
Warhead features 8 tracks, with side 1 one opening with a good riff rocker “Road Rocket”. This side also features a decent ‘metal’ version of the Arthur Brown classic “Fire”, which seems like an odd choice for a cover, but as a fan of AB, I find it pretty cool and interesting. It is side 2 which is the better side (IMO), opening with the title track, which features a big intro, which makes me wonder why this wasn’t the first song on the album!? It also includes another fine riff driven rocker in “We Are The Band”, and standout here is the closing cut “I Have No Answers”, which gallops along in places, and to me, is the closest thing to Iron Maiden here. Two singles were released from Warhead – “Fire” in the US, with the non-LP “Lord Of Twilight”, while the UK and other countries got “We Are The Band”, backed with the non-LP “Atomic Rock”.
I don’t know how well Warhead did at the time, but the band did shows in Europe (Monsters Of Rock) , and opened for Iron Maiden on their Killers tour. It seems more of a curious collectable as it features Day (with his connections to Iron Maiden and Sweet), as well as guitarist Laurie Mansworth, who went on to form Airrace, and later manage The Treatment. Both Paul Mario Day and Laurie Mansworth left the band before the 2nd album (tho’ Day had a songwriting credit on it). Paul Mario Day went on to record 2 albums with Wildfire (which included Andy Scott Sweet members Jeff Brown and Bruce Bisland) before joining The Sweet as well. Guitarist Kenny Cox went on to record with ’80s band Mammoth, which also included John McCoy (Gillan) and Nicky Moore (Samson). Cox passed away in 2022 (RIP).
Warhead is well worth checking out, at the least, appealing to fans of Samson, Tank, and a few others from the NWOBHM era. There is a ‘More’ still performing to this day, albeit with no original members.
Strap in! The pulse of rock ‘n’ roll just got a major jolt. Modern rock supergroup THE FELL, featuring legendary bassist Billy Sheehan, multi-platinum producer Mike (K.) Krompass, and Australian vocal powerhouse Toby Rand, return with their electrifying new single “Killswitch,” a crushing, high-voltage anthem that melds the golden age of rock with a modern-day edge via streaming as of July 18, 2025.
Watch for the video premier of “Killswitch” on July 30.
“Killswitch” will be available in Dolby Atmos mix via Apple/Amazon/Tidal on August 15.
“Killswitch” is about reclaiming control, cutting off the noise, shutting down manipulation, and powering through chaos with conviction, says the band. It’s a rally cry for anyone who’s ever felt pushed to the edge. The track pulses with massive guitars, blistering bass, and bone-crushing drums, wrapped in a wall of sound that nods to the best of late ’80s and ’90s rock while punching hard with a polished modern edge. This is not nostalgia, this is evolution.
THE FELL’s powerhouse lineup features legendary bassist Billy Sheehan (Mr. Big, David Lee Roth, Sons of Apollo), multi-platinum producer, songwriter, and guitar player Mike (K.) Krompass (Smash Mouth, Nelly Furtado, Everybody Loves an Outlaw, Dead Romantic), and vocal powerhouse Toby Rand (Rockstar: Supernova, Juke Kartel, Ashen Moon), whose dynamic voice soars over a backdrop of “Killswitch”’s grinding riffs and thunderous grooves. Sheehan delivers his signature low-end firepower with acrobatic flair, while Krompass’s massive guitar tones and razor-sharp production elevate the track to arena-sized proportions. Rounding out the lineup is elite session drummer Nick Chiarore (Dead Romantic), whose explosive drumming brings relentless precision and raw intensity. Chiarore’s chops can be heard on recordings with Slash and Steve Vai.
“Killswitch” will be available in Dolby Atmos mix via Apple/Amazon/Tidal on August 15.
Additional singles, “Face Out” is being released on September 12th. Followed by “Trippin’” on October 24th, plus a new version of their past hit “Footprints” (with Toby on vocals) on November 28th.
October 24th “The Killswitch EP” will be released in special packaging containing both CD and laser-etched LP, will feature 4 streaming singles plus a new version of “Dancin’ On A Glass Floor” that will remain exclusive to this release. A limited number of band signed deluxe editions will be available through their webstore. Watch for the announcement of record release shows in late October.
The album is released by Crown X Recordings/ BCMG Recordings.
L-R:Daniel Löble (drums), Michael Weikath (guitars), Markus Grosskopf (bass), Michael Kiske (vocals), Sascha Gerstner (guitars), Andi Deris (vocals),Kai Hansen (guitars, vocals) Photo credit: Mathias Bothor
With 15 gold awards, six platinum awards and over ten million records sold, HELLOWEEN are celebrating the band’s 40th anniversary with the successor to their self-titled #1 album from 2021. GIANTS & MONSTERS is the second album for the legendary line-up and the title immediately states where the album is heading.
Confident and bursting with vigor, the septet presents what probably is the most versatile album of their career. Already the opener “GIANTS ON THE RUN” flips the switch from the very first riff and impressively marks the terrain with the power voices of Andi Deris and Kai Hansen. No trace of restraint – the track takes a breath, takes off and unleashes a roar that leaves no doubt about the blazing pulse of the ten new songs. On this album, the experience and musical enthusiasm of a band that can do anything and everything blazes its way: Heavy, speed, rock, ballad – plain, intricate or progressive. With five strong songwriters and seven world-class musicians, creative limits are set aside once and for all on GIANTS & MONSTERS.
Musically rather straightforward and a veritable hit, “A LITTLE IS A LITTLE TOO MUCH” gives Andi Deris and Michael Kiske the space their monumental voices need for an intimate story. “Basically, it’s about the famous straw that breaks the camel’s back. During the writing process, however, I remembered an experience I had at the age of 15 and the lyrics ended up being pretty erotic – about little things that can quickly put an end to a big thing”, grins Deris. “THIS IS TOKYO” is another personal track. “I’ve always wanted to write this song. Japan plays a very special role in my life because I had my first big successes there with Pink Cream 69, and they have always treated me incredibly well. I wanted to create a tribute to Japan and finally had the right idea for the lyrics. Because ‘Tokyo’ sounds better in a chorus than ‘Japan’, the city stands for a whole country that is very important to me.”
“‘UNIVERSE (GRAVITY FOR HEARTS)” is a reminder that everything in the universe is connected, and what looks like an infinite number of stars could actually be moments, hearts and decisions,” describes songwriter Sascha Gerstner. With a playing time of over eight minutes, “UNIVERSE (GRAVITY FOR HEARTS)”, together with “MAJESTIC”, not only stands out as a longtrack – they both surprise with dizzying dynamic changes and huge melodic arcs that create entire worlds: Whatever you believe in is real. Alongside “WE CAN BE GODS”, “MAJESTIC” is also one of the tracks featuring all three singers of the HELLOWEEN super alliance. Both songs were penned by Kai Hansen and launch all trademarks that secured his place deep in metal hearts. “The space and aliens are my favorite themes and pretty fascinating. But you could also read the chorus as a description of the band: ‘We’re back and we’re the Masters of Power Metal’ – I’ll leave that up to the listeners,” laughs Hansen.
Masterclass is just as evident in gigantic ballads, and “GIANTS & MONSTERS” serves the first one in this constellation. “INTO THE SUN” is a duet in which Deris and Kiske sweepingly pour their hearts out, carried by masterfully orchestrated string cascades and yearning guitar solos. “Originally the song had different lyrics, but now it’s about reincarnation and that suits the track much better,” reveals Deris. “Michi and I share similar beliefs in that area, and I really wanted us to record the song together. He just sounds great when he sings it”. “SAVIOR OF THE WORLD”, a classic Weikath at his best, could have well been on one of the legendary ‘Keeper’ albums, and the extravagant “UNDER THE MOONLIGHT” also underlines his exceptional songwriting talent.
Consistently topping superlatives and presenting yet another milestone with “GIANTS & MONSTERS” requires the courage to keep reinventing a colossus like HELLOWEEN as well as continuing to challenge seven brimming careers even after four decades. And the instincts of the congenial producers Charlie Bauerfeind and Dennis Ward. For example, the fact that Dani Löble recorded all tracks on three different drum sets to individually decide which set delivers the perfect vibe for a song was only imaginable through unrestrained love of experimentation and highest standards. An effort and attention to detail that not everyone is willing to bring to the table. The mix was done at the legendary Wisseloord Studios in Hilversum, which have witnessed the works of the greatest names in music – from Iron Maiden to Judas Priest and Def Leppard to Rammstein.
Friction is another secret of the band that experiences a second spring with the reunion. “What keeps motivating us is the fact that we’re extremely different. That generates suspense and creative energy,” explains Weikath, “and if problems do occur, we connect through our passion and our sense of humor. We try not to take ourselves and everything around us too seriously,” adds Hansen, before Deris concludes: “In the end, we’re just seven guys who want to make music and enjoy the incomparable force that arises when we’re together. HELLOWEEN is way more powerful than the sum of its parts.”
The world-famous unique pumpkin power will once again flood all stages on the upcoming anniversary tour when the band and their fans celebrate 40 years of HELLOWEEN. The band will be touring the planet’s prime arenas with an ultimate setlist including classics, newer songs and some legit surprises. The first dates of the European tour, starting in mid-October, were sold out immediately and tickets for additional shows in Madrid and Bochum are already on sale. The recently released live CD and Blu-ray/DVD “LIVE AT BUDOKAN,” documenting the first sold-out gig at the legendary Budokan in Tokyo, is the perfect warm-up before HELLOWEEN take their fans and all the world’s “GIANTS & MONSTERS” on their next victory lap through metal paradise.
Track Listing: 01. Giants On The Run 02. Savior Of The World 03. A Little Is A Little Too Much 04. We Can Be Gods 05. Into The Sun 06. This Is Tokyo 07. Universe (Gravity For Hearts) 08. Hand Of God 09. Under The Moonlight 10. Majestic
“GIANTS & MONSTERS” will be released on August 29, 2025, as CD Jewel case, CD Digipak (incl. bonus track), Earbook (incl. bonus CD), 2-LP Gatefold (in various colors) and 2-LP Picture (incl. bonus track), MC and digital.
Black Sabbath was one of my early favorite bands, with a few of those early albums being the first I ever owned. I remember buying 4 of the first 5 albums for 50 cents each from a school mate’s older brother (along with Kiss Alive), when I was maybe 11. So I played these albums like crazy back then. The original Black Sabbath had such a unique sound between Tony Iommi’s riffs – which songs were almost always based around, Geezer Butler’s huge bass sound that usually doubled up the guitar, Ozzy’s distinctive vocals – the guy may not have been the greatest singer, but NOBODY sounded remotely like him, and then Bill Ward’s jazz influenced drum style, and (again) no other drummer sounded like Bill, especially on those early albums. And songs were not simply based on one riff, Sabbath had the ability to make things so much more interesting and epic, often with big changes in tempo or direction mid-song, sometimes multiple times in the same song, with totally different styles and new riffs. The band recorded 8 albums throughout the ’70s, with Paranoid being their biggest one, which featured “Paranoid”, as well as classics “War Pigs” and “Iron Man”. Over the years tho’ some of those songs have been played to death, so it was a no-brainer for me to not include them all here. Sabbath had some interesting, some scary, and some bad album covers back then. I gotta say it was Ozzy’s Speak Of The Devil 2LP live set that was a huge deal for me as well. Although it wasn’t Black Sabbath, he did do a pretty thorough set of Sabbath classics, and it would be the first time for me hearing tracks from a few Sabbath albums I didn’t have (like Never Say Die and Sabotage). Despite the band’s first few being hailed as their best, I have more of an attachment to a few of those later albums. By the time time I had those early Sabbath albums in my new collection, at a young age, this original line-up was well over, but I was happy to have seen the band (minus Bill Ward in 2015).
So, leaving my own picks for Black Sabbath’s best below, plus my album ranking below.
Sabbath Bloody Sabbath
2. You Won’t Change Me
From Technical Ecstasy, tho I’m sure ranks low among Sabbath ’70s fans, I like most of it. The added use of keyboards (courtesy of Gezz Woodruffe) on various tracks adds a lot of color and feel to songs here without necessarily losing any heaviness. Love the organ riff throughout this one, the piano in the mix, and Iommi’s guitar sound and solo.
3. Hole In The Sky
Sabotage has a few killer rockers, kinda more hard-rocking, faster, and less doomy. This one being my favorite here, with the band just jumping right into that big sounding riff & beat. Just my opinion, but I think Ozzy sounds at his best on this album and the next one (Technical Ecstasy).
4. Sweet Leaf
Following the coughing, a classic riff kicks off the band’s 3rd album Master Of Reality. Well written and produced, Huge sound on this album. This one never gets old.
5. N.I.B.
From the band’s debut. Sabbath had such a sound early on that no one else came close to. Such a distinctive bass intro, followed by the riff, just classic.
6. Snowblind
Volume 4 seemed to be the band’s doomiest record (IMO), slower paced and very dark musically and lyrically. This track, about cocaine, is my favorite here.
7. Back Street Kids
Another from Technical Ecstasy. A great opener. Love how this one chugs along, slightly brighter sounding, killer guitar solo, and then it all comes to quick close.
12. Symptom Of The Universe
Another from Sabotage, (again) with the band just getting right into it, like the beginning of thrash metal. Interesting change of direction 3 quarters of the way through tho’, like back to a bit of a hippy tune.
8. Junior’s Eyes
From the last album with Ozzy. Again, the band trying something different, tho (for me) it doesn’t all work here, but this one stands out.
10. War Pigs
The first song off the band’s massive 2nd album, Paranoid. This one being slow, dark, and crushingly heavy for the time with that sound based around Tony Iommi’s riff. Kinda like a follow up to the band’s self titled opener from the debut.
11. Dirty Women
Another great track from Technical Ecstasy. Just dig the big sound on this, Ozzy’s vocals, especially after the break and things pick up, followed by Iommi’s lengthy soloing as the song plays out, just epic.
12. Thrill Of It All
Another riff driven rocker from Sabotage. Dig how the track picks up, keyboards in the mix, and Ozzy sounding at his best on this album. “Oh yeah – Oh Yeah!”
13. Children Of The Grave
From Master Of Reality, just a cool riff and with Bill Ward’s drums, sound like this song marches along, which suits the lyrics, I guess.
14. The Wizard
That first Sabbath album had some outstanding and different things going, including this with Ozzy’s harmonica intro, followed by a classic heavy song.
15. Megalomania
Over 9 and a half minutes of epic Sabbath. Bill Ward kills it here, along with Ozzy’s performance being a highlight here,
16. Sabbra Cadabra
From Sabbath Bloody Sabbath. Quick and catchy riff opening this one. Love the change of pace mid way through with the addition of Rick Wakeman on keyboards. I had a tough time picking another from this album, aside from this, “Killing Yourself To Live” and “A National Acrobat” are favorites here.
17. Electric Funeral
Preferring the non-hits from Paranoid, this slower doomy number, with (as always) Iommi’s riff being the main focus, and with a cool mid-song change in direction before coming back to the riff. Ozzy’s delivers the song’s sinister lyrics so fitting.
18. Supernaut
Love the continual riff going here, along with Ozzy’s vocals and Bill Ward bashing it out all the way through.
19. After Forever
The 2nd track from Master Of Reality. Lots of classic songs here, such as “Into The Void” and “Lord Of This World”, but I always dug this one. Religious lyrics, posing questions.
20. Johnny Blade
Strange – synthesizers opening a Sabbath song, instead of a big riff. But another favorite from Never Say Die. Excellent, but very different, as the band seemed to be looking for new ideas near the end of the ’70s.
Next up: Never Say Die, Gypsy, Black Sabbath, Wheels Of Confusion, A National Acrobta.
BLACK SABBATH 70s ALBUM RANKING
There’s been times where any Sabbath album from this era has been my favorite, even briefly, but my first choice has always been at the top. This is MY own ranking, based on what I like and listen to most these days, and get that (like many of us), this could change drastically next year.
Master of Reality – to me, just the most solid Sabbath album track to track. On other Sabbath albums of the 70s, there always seems to be something I either can’t get in to or just doesn’t fit. Plus, that huge sound going here with Tony’s guitar from “Sweet Leaf” right through to “Into The Void”.
Technical Ecstasy
This album always ranks low amongst the Sabbath 70’s albums, but I really like it. I like the production, the keyboards used without taking away from the weight of the Sabbath sound, and Ozzy sounds great here. I love most of this, even don’t mind the Bill Ward ballad (though I have no idea why a band with such a distinctive lead singer would have someone else sing such an oddity on album). Lyrically, a bit less doomy, and almost more rebellious at times, with songs like “You Won’t Change Me”, “Back Street Kid”; plus “Gypsy” and “All Moving Parts (Stand Still)”.
Sabotage
Love Sabotage for the big 3 kick ass rockers here, being “Symptom Of The Universe”, “Thrill Of It All”, and “Hole In The Sky”, plus the epic “Megalomania”. A few things on side 2 tho I’ve just never gotten in to, but maybe one day.
Volume 4
This album has a lot going on, just thinking about it. A fairly dark album, musically and lyrically, but so much good stuff from “Wheels Of Confusion”, “Snowblind”, “Supernaut”, “St Vitus Dance”…. I can do without “Changes” though.
Black Sabbath
I remember getting this and hearing this when i was like 10 or 11, and it being so heavy, dark, almost scary (especially the song “Black Sabbath”). Kinda not right that I’ve got it so far down my list, but I’d heard it so much, and a few things I never got into. Years later I would get the first Lucifer’s Friend album, an interesting comparison, but no one sounded as evil as Black Sabbath did on this debut.
Paranoid
The band’s 2nd and commercial break through, due to “Paranoid” becoming a hit single. A bit more consistent than the debut, IMO, and though I love this album, I don’t know if I ever need to hear “Paranoid” or “Iron Man” again.
Sabbath Bloody Sabbath
Bringing this album home at such a young age, I think I kept it a bit hidden due to the cover, not wanting to answer any questions. But the lead off title track just blew me away, still my favorite 70s Sabbath track. I remember getting Speak Of The Devil (and subsequent Sabbath reunion live albums), and being disappointed that Ozzy didn’t sing the song in full…if at all on some). But, kind of a grey sound to this album beyond that, though there is a number of excellent tracks – “A National Acrobat”, Killing Yourself To Live”, “Sabbra Cadabra”, and I always liked “Fluff”, an odd instrumental ballad.
Never Say Die
I think I heard the song “Never Say Die” on Speak Of The Devil first, and then finally getting this album, and wondering why it sounds almost sloppy or something. But I did really dig this album for a brief period with songs like “Johnny Blade”, “Junior’s Eyes”, “Shock Wave” and even the jazzy “Air Dance”, but not a fan of a few things (sax on Sabbath album!?), and the overall sound of this record.
Latest batch of recommended new songs. These are not in any order, btw. But check them out, and check out the links added or in the song descriptions! A number of new releases to look forward to.
Erja Lyytinen – The Ring
The new single from Finland’s ‘Queen of the slide guitar’. “The Ring” is from her forthcoming album Smell The Roses (March 28), 3 years after her excellent, more blues-rock oriented Waiting For The Daylight record. https://erjalyytinen.com/
The Dead Daisies– Crossroads
The newest single from The Dead Daisies (with John Corabi, thankfully!) is a cover of the Robert Johnson classic “Crossroads”. Looking forward to the next album Lookin’ For Trouble. https://thedeaddaisies.com/crossroads/
The newest single from Sweden’s Alien, a band that’s been going since the late 80s. Their new album is titled When Yesterday Comes Around, out this week. https://www.aliensweden.com/
Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks– Roundabout (live)
A great version of the YES classic, from the new album Live – Perpetual Change. Out now. https://www.jonanderson.com/
Joe Holmes – The Deadfall
The new single from former Ozzy / Lizzy Borden / David Lee Roth guitarist. This track first appeared a few years ago, but here gets an official release. Reminds me of Robin Trower, but a bit darker. Features the vocals of Robert Locke. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083454667485
The 4th single from legendary British songwriter RUSS Ballard’s (Argent) new double album. This is one he wrote & recorded, but was soon covered by numerous acts, notable Head East , and then Rainbow (who had a huge hit with it).
American singer Mark Huff became known to hard-rock/metal fans in 2010 when he took on the frontman’s role in a reformed Quiet Riot, following the passing of Kevin Dubrow. A difficult task, no doubt. His tenure with the band ended in 2012 with health issues, and Huff would return once healthier and sing in various projects. Last year he joined DARK MILE, a new band put together by Paul Alfery (guitar/keyboards) and former Dio guitarist Tracy G., and along with bass player Randy Oviedo put out their excellent self-titled debut album. I recently spoke with Mark about his past, his various other bands, Quiet Riot, and the Dark Mile CD, as well as what else is on the go. If you haven’t checked out this album yet, I highly recommend it!
Who were some of your favorite singers you grew up on?
Don Henley, Phil Collins, Paul Rodgers, Robert Plant, Steve Walsh.., and the list goes on.
Did you buy a lot of albums growing up? Do you still keep an album collection?
I keep a few albums, tapes etc. I still have – Eagles Hotel California, Steve Miller’s Book of Dreams, Nazareth Hair of the Dog, Kansas Point of No Return, Kiss Alive signed by Paul and Gene, and a bunch of well-worn Led Zepplin, Steppenwolf, Deep Purple Machine Head…
What other bands did you grew up on?
Beatles, Golden Earring, Bad Company, Eagles, Aerosmith, Kansas, Cheap Trick, Cars, Ted Nugent.
So when you landed in California, what were some of the first bands you got involved in?
That was OU812. That was a good friend of mine named Angel Llanos. He’s still there in San Diego. He does a tribute to Carlos Santana, and he stays real busy doing that.
0U812, 5150/ Atomic Punks, Lead Foot Overdrive,
What were some of your favorites from that Van Halen era of Sammy? Do you have any song preferences from that era?
5150, We played all the hits from the Van Hagar era and a few obscure deep cuts – “Right Now”, “Dreams”, “When It’s Love”, “Black n Blue”. With 0U812, we did ANYTHING SAMMY – Montrose, solo songs, Chicken Foot, The Wabo’s….
That’s good. I love all those albums. 5150 was a favorite of mine.
I think that my covering of the vocals of the Sammy era, live and on video, are what got me recognized and a call from Frankie Banali.
Cool, and the Deep Purple stuff you did as well?
‘Deeper Purple’, we covered songs from, I think, all three singers. That was fun to me and that was always a challenge too.
During this time prior to Quiet Riot, had you done any recording stuff or any kind of original stuff?
Prior to Quiet Riot, I did a project with a band called ‘Leadfoot Overdrive’ in San Diego and Jeff Poremba, Steve Bernstein, Greg rupp and Mikey Panone. No releases but a great project. I still have recordings.
So that stuff you did prior to Quiet Riot, some of that was original stuff?
Yes, all original songs.
And the Quiet Riot thing, you were there with Frankie and the guys had been there for a while!?
Yes. Frankie ,Chuck Wright, Alex Grossi (he’s still playing).
With Quiet Riot, I know you were there for a couple of years, did about 40 shows. I know it didn’t end well, but what were kind of the highlights while you were there?
All a learning experience through a time I wasn’t physically well. But biggest crowd was in Germany ‘Bang Your Head Festival’, maybe 30,000 + the travel and locations I will never forget. I was fortunate to be included in many shows alongside people I had to pinch myself to question the reality. It was all an honor and a privilege. Doing a show in the mountains, snowing outside, stage is outside and at that elevation, they offered oxygen tanks if you needed to take a pull on stage. Shout out to all the kind people along the way!
Was there any opportunity or talk of doing anything original while you were there?
The possibility was discussed, but I wasn’t there long enough to see it happen
Post-Quiet Riot, you’ve done some other things as well, at least one or two albums?
‘Steel Imagination’ doing covers, and ‘Endangered Species’ – all original; I have recordings of that as well
I did some music with Craig Goldy. After I was well enough and anybody locally thought that I was ready to start getting involved in music again, he was one of the people that approached me too; that was probably from seeing me play in a ‘Deeper Purple’ show at Brick by Brick.
Greg and I worked on some stuff, and he was the first initial one to kind of … ‘baptize me’ with trying to record from home. We did everything from my house, and he mastered everything at home. And that was a learning experience, and he was the one that kind of helped me feel like I could still do this. We aspired it to do other things with it, but… it was more about the politics of who I sang with…and maybe politics for him personally too, I don’t know. I did that with Craig and those things were called ’13th Floor” (live, this was Endangered Species).
And then I hadn’t done anything for a while and I went to Florida, did a show with a band called Trixie Lee Taylor (with Taylor Murphy). I was blessed that people cared about me, wanted to be involved with me and for anything that was positive that way. I got to bounce around a little bit. And then after that I got approached, by someone on the phone, from up your way there in New York. And (he) approached me about doing some music. He already had songs written. And again, he kept me active in music and stuff and that didn’t work out. So, we’re at where we are right now.
You did an album in 2017!?
It was called ‘Steel Mountain Crossing’.
What was that about?
I was contacted by someone who wanted to make some music with me. We made some recordings, originals and a few covers. None of my songs. We are on opposite coasts so it was too hard to do long distance at the time. Creative differences but we gave it a go.
You eventually met Paul Alfery and Tracy G, and they’ve started this Dark Mile project. What did you think about that when they approached you with it? I think they had a lot of the songs written before you joined, correct?
Paul Alfery contacted me via a musicians’ app called ‘Band Mix’. My profile only states that I am a professional singer looking to stay active. Paul said a project he is working on needs a vocalist to finish a song, possibly more. We get through the song as we come to know who is in this project…. Tracy G, Paul Alfery, Randy Oviedo. So out of respect to these gentlemen, I had to reluctantly let them know that I was that guy from QR. When anything on the internet about you is not very positive, the last thing you would want to do is brag about any of it. I wanted a job where I didnt have to act, look, or sound like any one or thing except me. You can always be compared to someone else, the look, the sound. I appreciate this opportunity. My vocal spot here is…,I sing.,I have not written any of these songs. I give input. We collaborate. And these guys make it super simple for me. We tweak the melody, words here and there. Come up with another verse, float it around to each member until it works.
You did all the vocals from home?
Yes I did.
And were all the lyrics done for you? Or did you have to tweak a few here and there?
Every song comes to me differently. We tackle each song differently depending on what Paul has planned. The process gets better all the time; practice makes perfect.
Do you have a favorite, any favorite tracks on there? Or are you just all, you’re happy?
I like “The Boy” and I like, “He Said, She Said”, “Maybe On A Sunday”,…”Can’t Help You” …We are proud of the efforts, it’s all my favorite!!
How far along are you guys with the second album?
Just a couple songs to finish, we just finished a ballad for #2.. We thought we should put one on there.
Will it still maintain that kind of that 80s hard rock vibe?
That’s hard for me to say without hearing mastering, but it sounds great!!
Has there been any discussion about doing any live shows at some point?
We are prepared to do live shows in support of our music if warranted. I’ve been doing my parts, I have them tattooed on my brain and I’m ready to do this live, no problem… We all are!
What else are you involved in right now?
I’m working on doing something local soon, some recording.
What’s the live scene like where you are?
My friends Jeff Mills, Lynn Sorenson are active in the scene here. It’s about time for an open mic drop. People are getting back to entertainment!
Lynn Sorenson, he was on a couple, he was on the Stuart Smith album with Heaven and Earth.
Yes, he was. Lynn lives north of me. He stays busy doing what he loves. He’s played with Bad Company for a while, Paul Rogers and stuff. He’s a string player, he plays anything with strings, but he’s a great singer as well.
Cool. Lastly, do you listen to, you’re familiar with any Canadian bands?
Kim Mitchell, Loverboy, Honeymoon Suite, BTO, Rush, April Wine, Triumph, Mahogany Rush, The Guess Who, Steppenwolf…
I used to play the club circuit from all of Washington and Oregon, and all the way to the Canadian border. And we were playing Port Angeles. We had a guy in the audience for the whole night, and it was an off night, (early in the week), but he was very appreciative, and we got talking to him and it was Randy Bachman! He was going to catch his ferry back over to Victoria. We used to cover a lot of Loverboy, “Working For The Weekend” and “Turn Me Loose”, a few songs… April Wine was one of my favorites too, as far as the 3-guitar piece band, and the vocals and everything; we did a few April Wine songs too,
Anything else you’re listening to these days?
The works of Tracy G. The Winery Dogs, Myles Kennedy and everything that still inspires me!
With the latest release of classic Black Sabbath tunes from JAZZ SABBATH, and one earlier this year from ZAKK SABBATH, I thought I’d take a look (list) those acts out there who are paying homage to Sabbath’s music, while doing something different with it, and releasing albums. I don’t have everything here, but I recently picked up the latest Jazz Sabbath on vinyl, and hope to find a few on this list that I am missing. If there are any glaring omissions (Sabbath cover bands that actually record and do something different!), please leave it in the comments!
JAZZ SABBATH
Featuring keyboard player Adam Wakeman, who has toured with both Black Sabbath & Ozzy, and who’s father played on Sabbath & Ozzty recordings. This is Sabbath done jazz style. No vocals, no heavy guitars. Quite interesting. Jazz Sabbath have just released their 3rd album of Sabbath songs redone in jazz style, The 1968 Tapes. www.jazzsabbath.net
ZAKK SABBATH
Lead by Ozzy’s longtime guitar player Zakk Wylde, Zakk Sabbath has 2 albums out, totaling 3 LPs – covering Sabbath’s first 3 albums. Zakk tries to stay faithful to the heavy Sabbath sound and does a decent job on vocals as well. www.zakksabbath.bandcamp.com
BROWN SABBATH
Brown Sabbath (aka Brownout), from Texas have released a couple of albums of Sabbath material done in latin / funk style. This stuff has to be heard. Excellent vocals, complete with horns and whatever else, giving the Sabbath classics a whole new feel. Haven’t seen any updates on these guys for a while. They have recorded their own material under the name ‘Brownout.’ https://www.brownoutmusic.com/brown-sabbath
MAC SABBATH
A US parody band, these guys dress up as McDonald’s characters, and re-write the lyrics to fast food agenda. Funny, yet very dark and very heavy. They have one album out – DriveThru Metal (2021). www.officialmacsabbath.com
BLACK SABBITCH
An all-female band playing the Sabbath classics. They’ve released 1 – 3 track ep (sold at shows and online, presumably), which is taken from the band’s upcoming full album. www.blacksabbitch.com
HAND OF DOOM
Lead by former Hole & Smashing Pumpkins bass player (and Canadian) Melissa Auf der Maur, who is the singer here. Hand Of Doom existed for a few years (2000-2003) and released 1 album Live In Los Angeles (’02). Sounds good, an interesting spin on things, and one I need to find.
Outsider Rock 