Black Sabbath '13': Review

It's not bad, but does that make it good

 

“13”, the new album from godfather's of metal, Black Sabbath, features something old; traditional Sabbath guitar riffs along with lyrics that contemplate the afterlife, something new; Rage Against the Machine drummer Brad Wilk, and great production from Rick Rubin. Black Sabbath aren't chartering any new territory with “13”, but fans will welcome new material from one of the world's biggest rock bands.

The album begins with a guitar riff very reminicant of the diabolus in musica interval used at the beginning of “Black Sabbath” off their debut album of the same name. This sets the tone for “13”. Black Sabbath are reminding us how they used to rock by doing more of the same. Musically, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Ozzy Osbourne can still pack a punch and Brad Wilk is the perfect substitute for Bill Ward, who decided to sit this one out due a contractual dispute. Ozzy Osbourne's vocal's aren't what they used to be, but Rubin expertly layers and manipulates them to hide the imperfections. Lyrics, written by Geezer Butler, primarily explore the meaning of life and the existance of God, but ultimately they feel a bit too forced.  In the eight minute epic “God is Dead”, Ozzy wails “I emphasize with enemies until the time is right/When god and Satan at my side from darkness will come light”.

Everyone is at their best on “Age of Reason”, making it the highlight of the album. Brad Wilk is inspired on drums as Tony Iommi's wails a massive guitar solo. Ozzy explores the meaning of life singing “ These times are heavy and you're all alone”. “Damaged Soul” is a good jam and features a refreshing harmonica solo from Ozzy.

Black Sabbath are a timeless band and “13” sounds like it could have been released in the seventies. The double edged sword is that being timeless, doesn't make it exciting. It's kind of like season 4 of “Arrested Development”. It's nice for fans to get to see their old friends again, but unfortunately the magic is gone.