Black Sabbath to finish album then start year long tour

Black Sabbath are nearing completion of their first album with Ozzy Osbourne in 35 years and then they will spend most of 2013 touring.

At his official website, Tony Iommi has updated fans stating:

"What a year! Certainly not the one I was expecting.

"Thanks to you all for your massive help and support, it was very encouraging. I'm still working on the album and managed to play three shows, not bad given the news a year ago. I'm looking forward to next year, seeing what you think of the record and touring as much as we're able".

Ozzy's last album with Black Sabbath was 'Never Say Die' in 1978. The relatively unsuccessful album only reached no. 69 in the USA.

The album featured the original Black Sabbath line-up with Ozzy Osbourne on vocals, Tony Iommi on guitar, Geezer Butler on bass and Bill Ward on drums.

The album contains 'A Hard Road', the only Black Sabbath song where all four members share vocals and the only song on which Tony Iommi has ever sung.

Since 'Never Say Die', the only new music from the original Black Sabbath line-up were the two studio songs 'Psycho Man' and 'Selling My Soul' included on the 2002 live album 'Reunion'.

'Never Say Die' will remain the last album with the original line-up. While drummer Bill Ward was originally part of this current reunion, he elected to withdraw from the album and tour after a dispute with Sharon Osbourne.

Black Sabbath will begin their 2013 tour in Auckland, New Zealand on April 20.

2013 dates for Australia and New Zealand for Live Nation are:

April 20 and 22, Auckland, Vector Arena
April 25, Brisbane, Entertainment Centre
April 27, Sydney, Allphones Arena
April 29 and May 1, Melbourne, Rod Laver Arena
May 4, Perth, Perth Arena
Black Sabbath will then head to Japan for Ozzfest
May 12, Tokyo, Makuhari Messe







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