BLIZZARD OF OZZ (1980/1981, 1995) EPIC/SONY

I Don't Know Crazy Train Goodbye To Romance Dee - instrumental Suicide Solution Mr. Crowley No Bone Movies Revelation (Mother Earth) Steal Away (The Night)

Line-up: Ozzy Osbourne - Lead & Harmony Vocals Randy Rhoads - All Guitars Bob Daisley - Bass Guitar, Harmony Vocals, Gongs Lee Kerslake - Drums, Percussion, Tubular Bells, Timpani Drums Additional musician: Don Airey - Keyboards

After getting fired from Black Sabbath in 1978, Ozzy Osbourne was determined to get a new band together. He "hijacked" 3 of the members from Necromandus (an English band that Tony Iommi had been managing back in the early '70's), and formed the band, Blizzard Of Ozz. Apparently the band was already getting busy in the studio when Ozzy was asked to rejoin Sabbath. That only lasted another year, so in 1979 Ozzy set out to reform Blizzard Of Ozz, this time under the management of Jet Records, and their notorious label boss, Don Arden. They brought in Bob Daisley (ex-Rainbow) on bass, Lee Kerslake (ex-Uriah Heep) on drums and finally one Randy Rhoads (ex-Quiet Riot) on guitar. Together with Don Airey (Rainbow, Colosseum II) on keyboards, the band recorded between March 22 and April 19, 1980, with band members writing and producing the album, with now renowned producer, Max Norman, engineering. The final result was released via Jet Records on September 20, 1980 in the UK, then on March 27, 1981 in the US. Much to the band members shock, the record company had named the album 'Blizzard Of Ozz', and released it under Ozzy's name, offering it more as a solo effort than a full band release. Still, the album sold well, and skyrocketed the career of one of the leading names in metal history.

'Blizzard Of Ozz' is nothing short of a masterpiece. It is one of those album that perhaps deserves more praise than even it's iconic status can offer. Just as with the 4 members of Black Sabbath in the early '70's, the sum of it's part was as important as the individual member. In hindsight we all know how good Randy Rhoads was. This classically trained guitar player brought so much know-how into the playing as few had done before him, or would do after him. Randy created a style of his own, playing with his heart and the love of music. Whereas other aspiring guitarists mostly tried to copy the flash, flare and technicality of one Eddie Van Halen, Randy almost went the opposite way. Not that he couldn't play like that, because he most certainly could. But for Randy it was more important to play what was needed in the composition of the song. It was not about being impressive, it was about writing and playing impressive songs! And together with Bob, Ozzy and Lee he managed to do just that. Whereas Black Sabbath had been mostly about riff-based songs, Ozzy's first solo album was very different, and concentrated on melodic compositions. Mind you, this is still a full-on heavy metal record, complete with Bob and Ozzy's dark lyrics about everything from anti-suicide ("Suicide Solution"), leaving the past behind ("Goodbye To Romance") and even environmental issues ("Revelation (Mother Earth)"). It's just much more dynamic, nuanced and versatile. And, probably thanks to Bob writing the better part of them, this album contains some of the most sophisticated lyrics Ozzy has ever sung as a solo artist.

Yes, Ozzy's first solo-effort, is nothing short of a heavy metal classic! Not many artists can leave a successful band, and then gain just as much respect as a solo-artist, it's usually hard enough to get financial backing, such as Fisher Investments UK, to even support trying. But Ozzy managed just that, largely due to his band members, but also thanks to a brutal manager, and his (soon-to-be-Mrs. Osbourne) daughter (but that is another story).

My version of 'Blizzard Of Ozz' is the remastered version from 1995. I've been told by audiophiles that this is the best sounding version of this album, even preferable over the 2011 Legacy Edition. However, the front cover, with the satin border, is very inferior. The original front cover is included in the booklet though, as well as a bunch of cool photos, lyrics and liner notes.

Killer tracks: Crazy Train, Goodbye To Romance, Suicide Solution, Mr. Crowley, Revelation (Mother Earth)

Trivia: 2 of the tracks on this album caused some controversy. "Mr. Crowley" was said to be a homage to the well known Satanist, but if you listen to the lyrics, you'll find that Ozzy is really questioning Crowley's lifestyle. "Suicide Solution" even got Ozzy a lawsuit. The claim was that the track had caused a teenager to commit suicide. But also here the track is really about the opposite. It's an anti-suicide tune, written after the tragic death of Ozzy's friend, and AC/DC singer, Bon Scott!

Rudy Sarzo, Don Airey, Ozzy, Randy Rhoads, Tommy Aldridge (touring line-up)

DIARY OF A MADMAN (LEGACY EDITION (1981, 2011) EPIC/SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT

Not even a year after the release of Ozzy's debut album, the band released the sophomore record, entitled 'Diary Of A Madman'. It was recorded from the 9th of February to the 23rd of March 1981, and subsequently released on November 3, 1981. By that time Bob Daisley and Lee Kerslake had been kicked out of the band, and replaced by Rudy Sarzo (Randy's friend from Quiet Riot) on bass, and Tommy Aldridge (ex-Gary Moore, Whitesnake) on drums. So even though Bob and Lee are the ones playing on the album, they were not credited in the liner-notes, and the band pictures are with Tommy and Rudy! This has led to all kinds of controversy down the road, including a lawsuit in 1986 where Bob and Lee won writing credits for 'Diary Of A Madman'. That in turn made Sharon and Ozzy get Mike Bordin and Robert Trujillo (drummer and bass-player for Ozzy at the time) to re-record the bass and drum parts for the 2002 reissue of the album. On the 2011 Legacy Edition Bob and Lee are still not listed as band members, but both are credited as songwriters, and the original recordings are reinstated.

'Diary Of A Madman' was well received upon it's original release. But in my opinion it doesn't have as many great songs as the debut did. Just ask me what album "Little Dolls" is from, and I would probably not know the answer without looking it up. But despite a few anonymous songs here, the formula is pretty much the same, meaning this is basic heavy metal, seasoned with some of the best guitar-work that has ever graced a CD or a vinyl album. The band experiments a little with the slightly progressive title track, and several tracks opens with acoustic guitar intros. 'Over The Mountain' became a minor hit for the madman, and became the first single from 'Diary Of A Madman'.

Don Airey is credited as the keyboardist here, when he in fact didn't play a note on the album. He had joined the band during the tour for 'Blizzard Of Ozz', but became pre-occupied recording with Rainbow. So a studio musician named Johnny Cook (Mungo Jerry) plays keys on the album. Tragically Randy Rhoads was killed in a plane-crash in March of 1982, so this became the last album featuring his great guitar-work (not counting the 'Tribute' album of course).

I used to own the 1995 reissue of this album, but have now replaced it with the 2001 Legacy Edition instead. This new version is remastered (again) and features a bonus disc containing a previously unreleased live concert, recorded during the second leg of the 'Blizzard Of Ozz' tour in 1981. That is the same tour the 'Tribute' album was recorded, and the song order is exactly the same on both live efforts, although 'Tribute' offers a couple more songs. It's still very cool to have another official live release from this tour, and this time it's all songs from the same concert. It's a shame that they didn't include all the B-sides and single-versions of songs from the 'Diary Of A Madman' session though. "You Said It All", f.ex. still needs a proper release!

Killer tracks: You Can't Kill Rock And Roll, Believer, Diary Of A Madman

SPEAK OF THE DEVIL (1982, 1995) EPIC/SONY

After the first 2 Ozzy Osbourne albums it was decided to release a live album. Several shows during the 'Blizzard Of Ozz'-tour were recorded, and I think the album was mostly done when the tragic, untimely death of Randy Rhoads became a reality. Ozzy refused to release the planned record, as he thought it would look as though he was cashing in on the tragedy. Still, the label talked him into taking a new line-up on the road to record a 2 record set of Black Sabbath songs!

The new line-up consisted of bass-player Rudy Sarzo (ex-Quiet Riot) and drummer Tommy Aldridge (ex-Black Oak Arkansas), both of whom had already been touring with Ozzy on the last leg of the 'Blizzard Of Ozz'-tour.  So the only new face was guitarist Brad Gillis (ex-Rubicon). He replaced Bernie Tormé, who had stepped in briefly after Randy's death.

Ultimately the band decided to have some fun, trying to vitalize these old classic Black Sabbath tunes. Of course this is a task no one should ever try, except Black Sabbath themselves. However, I find the album to be quite pleasant to listen to. After all, it is a very strong set list! And so much can be said about it being the original singer laying down his soul into these classics. No offense to Ronnie James Dio, Ian Gillan, Tony Martin or even Rob Halford, but there is only 1 Ozzy Osbourne, and he is the voice that made Black Sabbath! And he really sounds great here, along with a band that plays the songs faithfully, albeit not always note-for-note. Besides, where else do you think we'll ever hear "Never Say Die" played live ever again?

'Speak Of The Devil' was recorded live at the infamous The Ritz on New York during 2 nights in September of 1982. Max Norman was the producer, and he has admitted that 3 of the songs were recorded during rehearsals rather then during the shows themselves, with crowd noise being added in the mixing process. The UK version of the album was named 'Talk Of The Devil', simply because this is the British equivalent to the same idiom as the US title.

The original cover design by Steve 'Krusher' Joule was one of the most striking and controversial of the early Eighties. It depicts Ozzy with what appears to be bits of his insides, but was actually strawberry jam (!!), sprouting from a mouth made more hideous by a pair of fangs. It caused shock waves, but all helped sustain the atmosphere of madness and crazed humor.

Ozzy has publicly disowned and slated the album, saying it was only recorded due to pressures from the record label. In April 2002, it was deleted from Osbourne's US/North American catalogue and is no longer being made. However, the album is still being made in Japan and in other markets. I own the remastered version from 1995.

BARK AT THE MOON (1983, 1995) EPIC/SONY

Ozzy was in the worst of states when it was time to record his 3rd solo album. Randy Rhoads was gone, and Ozzy's alcohol problems escalated. Rudy Sarzo returned to Quiet Riot, and back came the previously fired bass-player, Bob Daisley. The line-up was completed by Tommy Aldridge on drums, Don Airey on keyboards and newcomer Jake E. Lee on guitar, the latter replacing Brad Gillis who had left to join Night Ranger. Jake had previously worked with up-and-coming acts like Rough Cutt, Mickey Ratt (soon to become just Ratt) and Dio, but never recorded an actual album for either band. Together they recorded 'Bark At The Moon', released December 10, 1983.

When I first obtained this album, I didn't care much for it. But today I can't understand why. Granted, this is not as good as the previous 2 Ozzy solo-efforts, it's still a smokin' album! And it contains several classic Ozzy tracks, including the famous title-track. Personally I also think it holds some of the madman's best "unknown" tracks. "You're No Different" is one an example of an overlooked Ozzy-gem, in my opinion. However, for the first time Ozzy delivers some duds as well. "Centre Of Eternity" f.ex., just doesn't cut it for me. Another out-of-place cut is "Slow Down". Heavily saturated with keyboards, one can certainly wonder if this was a deliberate attempt to record a radio-hit. The song was not included on the original UK pressing of the album, but was added to the US version, replacing the song "Spiders In The Night". The US version also sported a completely different track listing, as well as changing some of the song titles. ("Spiders In The Night" was named "Spiders" on the UK pressing, and "Centre Of Eternity" was named "Forever", which is what Ozzy himself called the song when they played it live.)

The loss of Randy is tremendously obvious. Now, don't get me wrong, Jake E. Lee is a phenomenal guitar-player in his own rights. It's just pretty hard to beat, or even compete on the same level as, Randy Rhoads. That said, I do consider Jake to be the best replacement possible. The liner-notes credits Ozzy as the only songwriter here. The facts are a little more nuanced, as Ozzy himself has in hindsight revealed that Jake helped write the title track for 'Bark At The Moon'. Bob Daisley has also claimed that he and Jake co-wrote most of the songs, and that he at the time accepted a buyout from Osbourne in exchange for writing credits. Whatever the whole truth may be, the end result is, as already stated, a good album, albeit not a perfect one.

The 1995 remastered version is the first to have both "Slow Down" and "Spiders In The Night" on the same pressing. Too bad they didn't see fit to add "One Up The B-Side" (the B-side to the 'Bark At The Moon' single) as well, as that would have completed the studio songs released during this era. The song in question was added to the 2002 reissue, but on this version the whole album was remixed, taking away guitar-parts and whatnot! So the 1995 version is still the preferred one.

Killer tracks: Bark At The Moon, You're No Different, Now You See It (Now You Don't), So Tired, Waiting For Darkness, Spiders In The Night

THE ULTIMATE SIN (1986, 1995) EPIC/SONY

'The Ultimate Sin' is the fourth studio album from Ozzy Osbourne. It was released on 22 February 1986, a little over 2 years after the previous record. When the recording sessions started the band featured a new drummer in Jimmy DeGrasso (later in Y&T, Megadeth, White Lion etc.), alongside Ozzy, Jake E. Lee (guitar) and Bob Daisley (bass). However, when Ozzy rejoined Black Sabbath for the Live Aid concert, this line-up fell apart. Jimmy was replaced with Randy Castillo (ex-Lita Ford), and after yet another disagreement between Bob and Ozzy, Bob left and was replaced by newcomer, Phil Soussan (ex-Wildlife). The working title for the album was 'Killer of Giants', but Ozzy opted to change the title to 'The Ultimate Sin' at the last minute.

The record became yet another success for Ozzy and the band. Heavy Metal was enjoying a surge in popularity, and 'The Ultimate Sin' was awarded Platinum status on 14 May 1986. It went on to sell over 2,000,000 copies worldwide. Despite it's initial success, this is perhaps the most overlooked album in the Ozzy Osbourne discography. The reasons for that are many. Ozzy himself have stated that he hates the album, leading to a discontinuance of the album in Ozzy's back catalogue. Many fans shunned the album upon it's initial release, claiming it was a sell-out record, with it's slicker production, modern synth-guitars and radio friendly songs.

The quality of this record is, to me at least, undeniable. This is truly one of my favorite Ozzy Osbourne albums. It contains one of the songs I listened to the most, while growing up ("Killer Of Giants"). I even attempted to learn to play this song on violin, the only instrument I tried to learn how to play during my formative youth!! Another favorite track is "Secret Loser". It was also included in the Charlie Sheen movie, "The Wraith", another favorite during my teenage years. I have so many memories concerning this album, so nostalgia is definitely a huge factor in my love for 'The Ultimate Sin'. Personally I can not find a weak song on here. From the opening title track, to the aforementioned hit single, I enjoy it all, immensely. It sounds like a natural follow up to 'Bark At The Moon', perhaps mostly due to Bob Daisley's input in the songwriting department. But at the same time the "new" band comes to its rights here, with Jake being another highlight in Ozzy's string of awesome guitar players. Randy Castillo would continue to be a part of Ozzy's band for a decade, and it is easy to hear why. He just shines on this album! 'The Ultimate Sin' might sound like a more pop oriented album than its predecessors, and the production, signed Ron Nevison (Heart, Kiss, Survivor), is certainly roomy and polished. But to my ears it has always been about the ability to deliver good songs. And there I find 'The Ultimate Sin' to score on every level.

I own the 1995 remastered version of the album. This is, so far, the last version of the album, as it was not part of the 2002 reissues of Ozzy's catalogue, together with all the other titles originally featuring the hit "Shot In The Dark" on the track list. This has led to speculations that said titles are no longer in print due to Ozzy and company's refusal to pay old band members royalties. "Shot In The Dark" was originally written by Phil Soussan during his stint in Wildlife, some 2 years prior to him joining Ozzy. Ozzy wanted to record the song, but demanded 50% writers credit, and that the song should be reworked to fit better into the Ozzy Osbourne mold. After Phil's exit from the band he brought on, on two separate occasions, lawsuits against Ozzy regarding claims for non-payment of royalties, once in 1989 and then again in 1993. Both cases were settled, and Phil has publicly stated that these issues cannot be the reason of the discontinuance of the albums. It has not prevented Ozzy from playing the song live though. The lyrics for the record were largely written by long-time Osbourne bassist and lyricist, Bob Daisley. However, Daisley was not credited for his songwriting contributions on the initial 1986 pressing of the album (though this was corrected on subsequent pressings), due to the aforementioned disagreement.

Killer tracks: All of them

TRIBUTE (1987, 1995) EPIC/SONY

Originally slated for a 1982 release, this live album was shelved for 5 years due to Randy Rhoads untimely death on March 19, 1982. On the cover Ozzy Osbourne shares artist credits with Randy Rhoads, and the title, 'Tribute', says it all. This album celebrates the music and talent of Randall William "Randy" Rhoads.

To me, this is one of the finest live-recordings of all times. Maybe it's nostalgia, but when I grew up there were 3 live-albums that stood out: KISS - 'Alive', Iron Maiden - 'Live After Death' and Ozzy - 'Tribute'! It really is that good to me. Randy was, and still is, one of the finest guitarists that ever lived, and these recordings prove it! There is not a weak spot on this CD, and quite frankly; how can one fail with a set list compiled from Ozzy's first 2 solo albums? "Crazy Train", "Mr. Crowley", "Revelation (Mother Earth)" and "Suicide Solution" (featuring an awesome solo spot with Randy) are all highlights. But it's also quite cool to hear the band play some of those old Black Sabbath tunes as well.

Recorded during 3 different concerts on the 'Blizzard Of Ozz' tour, the album actually features two different line-ups. It's a little bit unclear when and where "Goodbye To Romance" and "No Bone Movies" were recorded, but most likely they are from Southampton on October 2, 1980. This was on the first leg of the tour, and on these tracks the entire original line-up is still intact, only adding Lindsey Bridgewater on keyboards. However, the remaining tracks (excluding the "Dee" outtakes) were recorded in Cleveland, Ohio on May 11, 1981. Rhoads' guitar solo is from Montreal on July 28, 1981. By this time Ozzy's band had finished recording their second album, 'Diary Of A Madman', but it wasn't released until 6 months later. Daisley and Kerslake had been fired from the band at this time, so Rudy Sarzo (Quiet Riot) and Tommy Aldridge (ex-Black Oak Arkansas) took their places for the second leg of the tour. Just as on 'Diary Of A Madman' Don Airey was credited as the bands keyboardist in the liner notes, but Lindsey Bridgewater was the keyboard player onboard for these live treks.

Originally released as a double LP, the CD versions (like my 1995 reissue) are single disc only. The madman has releases numerous live-albums, EP's etc. But none of the others can ever match this one, with Randy playing lead guitar.

Trivia: An un-overdubbed version of "I Don't Know" was originally released on the "Over The Mountain" single. The recording of "Crazy Train" was also released as the album's only single on February 10, 1987, along with a music video.

NO REST FOR THE WICKED (1988, 1995) EPIC/SONY

Miracle Man Devil's Daughter Crazy Babies Breaking All The Rules Bloodbath In Paradise Fire In The Sky Tattooed Dancer Demon Alcohol Hero (unlisted bonus-track)

Line-up: Ozzy Osbourne - Vocals Zakk Wylde: Guitar Randy Castillo - Drums Bob Daisley - Bass Guitar Additional musician(s): John Sinclair - Keyboards

Randy Castillo, Ozzy Osbourne, Zakk Wylde, Geezer Butler

'No Rest for the Wicked' was the fifth studio album by Ozzy Osbourne. It was released on October 22, 1988 and was re-issued and remastered on August 22, 1995 (the version I own) and again on June 25, 2002. The album was certified gold in December 1989 and has since gone double platinum. It peaked at number 13 on the Billboard 200.

'No Rest for the Wicked' was the recording debut of Ozzy's new lead guitarist, Zakk Wylde. After parting ways with Jake E. Lee in 1987, Ozzy received a demo tape from Wylde and later hired him. Bob Daisley made yet another return to the band after the falling out during the writing for 'The Ultimate Sin' in 1985. After the album was finished, Daisley was once again out, replaced by Ozzy's former Black Sabbath band mate, Geezer Butler. So even though he did not play a note on the album, Geezer is still the one pictured in the album's liner notes.

Musically I find 'No Rest For The Wicked' to be a natural follow up to 'The Ultimate Sin'. But if you play it side by side with one of the bands first 2 albums, there are glaring differences. This has to be the most keyboard saturated Ozzy album to date. I'm not saying this is necessarily a bad thing. Remember the classic Ozzy albums had Don Airey playing keyboards as well. However, the keyboards of the mid- to late '80's had a "plastic" sound to them that never clicked well with me. Still, with Bob on bass and Randy on drums, you know Ozzy had a competent band. And with a young Zakk Wylde on board, eager to prove himself to the world, the result is more than good in my ears. When this was a new release, I listened to it so much, I almost wore it out (those were the vinyl days). In fact, I listened to it so much, I eventually grew somewhat tired of it. Nowadays I have come full circle with it, and love most of the songs on 'No Rest For The Wicked'. It is not the best album in his discography, but it is not his worst either.

Ozzy was going through one of his numerous rehab sessions during the writing of this album. This led to the song "Demon Alcohol". "Bloodbath In Paradise" is about the Charles Manson incident, while "Miracle Man" is about the TV-preacher, Jimmy Swaggart. Jimmy used to publicly slag Ozzy during his TV shows, so when he was caught with a prostitute Ozzy wrote this song as a "revenge". The song "Hero" is an unlisted hidden bonus track. Upon it's original 1988 release, it was commonly believed to be titled "Fools Know More".

Killer tracks: Breaking All The Rules, Fire In The Sky, Hero

JUST SAY OZZY (EP) (1990) EPIC/CBS

'Just Say Ozzy' is a live EP, recorded during Ozzy's tour for 'No Rest For The Wicked'. The liner noted states that it was recorded at the Brixton Academy Theater, November 1989. This has later on been disputed, since such a concert, at this venue and at this particular time, seems to have never taken place. Instead it has been suggested that the basis for this live EP was in fact recorded during Osbourne's MTV show at the Philadelphia Spectrum in 1989. The music, however, was re-recorded and mixed at Electric Lady Studios in New York, with engineer Adam Yellin. The audience noise, and some tracks from the live recording, was kept.

Basically this EP works as another record-company marketing ploy. Ozzy himself didn't even like the idea, but says in the liner notes that he was pleased with the result. He actually prefers this live version of "Shot In The Dark" over the studio version. At this point in time Ozzy's band featured none other than Geezer Butler on bass. So it is cool to hear Ozzy and Geezer render through some Black Sabbath tunes once more. Zakk certainly plays them with his usual flash and pizzazz. The 3 remaining songs are all from 'No Rest For The Wicked', so don't expect a career spanning overview on this 6 track live EP. And therein lies the problem with this album. It's too short to function as anything that documents this era of the band live, yet it is cool to at least have something from the band anno 1989. All in all I find 'Just As Ozzy' more of a collector's item than it is a record I actually listen to too often.

I own the 1995 reissue, with the usual crappy cover art. This particular album, alongside 'The Ultimate Sin' and 'Live & Loud', was discontinued from Ozzy's back catalogue when the rest was reissued in 2002. This was initially thought to be due to a legal dispute with Phil Soussan, over the rights to the song "Shot In The Dark". However, this dispute was settled in 1993, 2 years prior to the 1995 reissue of this album.

NO MORE TEARS (1991, 2002) SONY/EPIC

Recording 'No Rest For The Wicked' was supposedly an awful experience for Ozzy, mostly due to him and producer, Roy Thomas Baker, not seeing eye-to-eye on most issues. And following this record, Ozzy experienced two other episodes that would "scar" him for a lifetime. First he had the infamous drunken binge black-out episode, where he strangled his wife, Sharon. Then he was dragged to court by the parents of 2 teenagers in Macon, Georgia, USA, who claimed their sons had committed suicide under the influence of Ozzy's music. The case was thrown out of court, still it became one of the most talked about incidents of Ozzy's career. And it was with that backdrop Ozzy started writing, and recording, music for his 6th studio album, eventually entitled 'No More Tears'. Released on 17 September 1991, the album charted at #17 on the UK albums chart, and #7 on the US Billboard 200. The album spawned five singles, of which four reached the top ten of the US Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. It is one of Osbourne's two best-selling albums in North America, having been certified four times platinum by the RIAA and double platinum by CRIA. The track "I Don't Want To Change the World" won a Grammy in 1994, for Best Metal Performance.

'No More Tears' saw Ozzy collaborating with some "new" faces in writing the songs for the album. Zakk Wilde has co-writing credits on all of the tracks, and both drummer, Randy Castillo, and the new bass player, Mike Inez, gets credit on some. The latter came up with the bass run opening the title track, but strangely enough did note play a note on the album himself. For the umpteenth time, Bob Daisley returns to the fold, but this time he is credited as playing bass, but not as a co-songwriter. Still, the most exciting collaborator here must be credited Lemmy Kilmister of Motörhead fame. He co-wrote 4 of the tracks for this album, and perhaps most surprisingly, he wrote the lyrics for the ballads!

I believe 'No More Tears' is Ozzy most successful album to date. He had a huge hit with "Mama, I'm Coming Home" (written to his wife Sharon), and also the title track did great, even getting regular MTV airplay. I love this album, and played it to death as a new release. The title track is definitely one of Ozzy's finest moments as a solo artist. However, I find that the album hasn't aged all that well, and today I find songs like "Mr. Tinkertrain", "S.I.N.", "Zombie Stomp" and "A.V.H" to be fillers. Still, 'No More Tears' has several elements making it a stand-out Ozzy album. Zakk Wylde's guitar-style comes to it's fullest here, and what a player he is indeed! Ozzy really knows how to find good musicians. The track "Road To Nowhere" is one of my all time favorite songs. It just speaks directly to me, and although I've not experienced the life Ozzy has lived, I can relate to that song in an uncanny way.

I replaced my original CD with the 24-bit remastered version, from 2002. It come with 2 bonus tracks, and new liner-notes. The sound is much better on it this release compared to the original. Unlike the 1995 remastered series, this reissue has the original artwork intact. The 2 bonus-tracks aren't of high Ozzy quality, but OK enough. They were originally B-sides to singles, released to this album.

Trivia: Motörhead recorded the song "Hellraiser" for the "Hellraiser 4" movie.

Killer tracks: Mama, I'm Coming Home, No More Tears, Time After Time, Road To Nowhere

LIVE & LOUD (1993) EPIC/SONY (2-CD)

Another live album, from the original madman. The tour was entitled No More Tours, and the rumors started to spread as to if this was to be the last we saw of Ozzy and his gang. Well, even the booklet states that this is the testimony of Ozzy as a live-artist, and that he has been told to stop touring so extensively, because of his health. But only time would tell, at the time of it's release. I like this live-album a lot, but would have preferred that the set-list was a little better, and the solo-tracks were removed. But stuff like "Crazy Train", "Shot In The Dark" and "Road To Nowhere" are awesome!! Zakk Wylde does justice to Randy Rhoads on those early Ozzy tracks, and when Geezer and Tony accompany the lads in playing those classic Sabbath-tracks, It's not hard to see why they are the godfathers of Heavy Metal. Not the best live-album out there, but a must to all Ozzy fans!

My version is a special edition, with the cover being made out as a speaker cabinet, with steel bars. It also included the tattoo-artwork, pictured above.

OZZMOSIS (1995) EPIC/SONY

It took Ozzy 2 years from his alleged quitting, to a new album saw the light of day. 'Ozzmosis' picks up where 'No More Tears' left off. Standard Ozzy stuff, and nothing more, nothing less. I don't think this is a very strong album. And if you told me that you liked the Ozzy track "Thunder Underground", I wouldn't have a clue what you were talking about. There are of course excellent tunes here as well, but all in all, this is a weaker album compared to this man's incredible catalogue. Randy Castillo, one of the longest running members of Ozzy's band, is replaced by an unknown chap, called Deen Castronovo. Rick Wakeman from Yes plays keyboards.

Killer tracks: Perry Mason, I Just Want You, See You On The Other Side

THE OZZMAN COMETH (1997) EPIC/SONY (2-CD)

After 7 studio-albums, and almost an equal amount of live-albums, Ozzy releases a best-of compilation. It's always a debate on what the track list should be on these best-of CD's. And I'm not very pleased with this one either. But it is of course a must have, because of the new track "Back On Earth" (not on any albums), and the Black Sabbath rehearsal takes. Yes, the 4 Sabbath tracks herein are taken from a rediscovered Basement Tape. One might wonder what on earth they are doing here, and not on a Sabbath compilation, but as the booklet states: "This is where it all began...'. The multimedia section is also very cool. There's a computer-game on it, where you are whacking frogs (!!), and when you choose between the different sections on the screen, Ozzy shoots a TV before you enter!! Humor only Ozzy could come up with!

TWO UP THE B SIDE (200?) CDR BOOTLEG

This is a bootleg compilation disc, which was given to me by a friend (thanks Scott). It contains most of Ozzy's b-side tracks, and guest appearances through the years. And what a fabulous collection it is! This kind of stuff should be released officially! To have the beautiful duet with Lita Ford ("Close My Eyes Forever") finally on CD, makes this compilation worth while alone! And having the duet with Lemmy ("I Ain't No Nice Guy"), without having to buy a Motörhead CD, is also a treat. "Born To Be Wild" is a Steppenwolf cover, a duet with Miss Piggy!! Funny stuff. "Purple Haze" is of course a Jimi Hendrix cover. There are of course some bad stuff here as well. All the rap-crap and remixed stuff, I could have been without. But all in all, big kudos to the guy who put together this compilation. One of the few bootlegs that is justified to own, in my opinion!

DOWN TO EARTH (2001) EPIC/SONY

Ozzy returns to his solo-career, after reuniting and touring with the original Black Sabbath. And what a return it is! This just sounds Ozzy, all the way through! You can sense some modern influences here and there, but mostly in the producing aspect, but nothing comes in the way of Ozzy's sound. Ozzy sounds like Ozzy, and 'Down To Earth' is another fine album in the collection. Listen to "Gets Me Through" and tell me that this guy has been in the business for over 30 years!!! The man sings like he is still 22 years old. Ozzy's best album in over 10 years!

Killer tracks: Gets Me Through, Facing Hell, Dreamer, You Know...(Part 1)

LIVE AT BUDOKAN (2002) EPIC/SONY

This album is a bit unnecessary. There hasn't been enough studio-albums since the last live-album to justify a new one already. But if you look past that, this is a terrific live-testimony. I do not think it has been overtly tampered with, and the material on it, speaks for it self. Zakk sounds amazing! It's actually good to hear the new tracks live. Usually it's the old tracks that does the trick, and believe me, they do so here too. But it was also cool to hear stuff like "Believer" and "Gets Me Through". He could have changed the boring "I Don't Want To Change The World" with something off the 'Ozzmosis' album though. If you are a fan, this is probably already in your collection. But if you are new to Ozzy, and want to hear the madman live, this is not a bad place to start.

THE ESSENTIAL OZZY OSBOURNE (2003) EPIC/LEGACY (2CD)

The success of the MTV-series 'The Osbourne's is what's to blame for seeing yet another compilation album from everybody's favorite madman. There is nothing on it that a collector doesn't already own (except that the tracks are from the 2002 reissue series, thus the tracks from 'Diary Of A Madman' and 'Blizzard Of Oz' are the re-recorded versions). So it was only the die-hard collector in me that picked this up, when it was album-of-the-month in one of the CD-clubs I'm a member off. But if you are new to Ozzy's music, this is decent compilation indeed. The songs are in chronological order (except for the 2 tracks from the Randy Rhoads tribute album), but why on earth have they left out songs from 'The Ultimate Sin' altogether?? This is an outrage! At least "Shot In The Dark", a song that even got some MTV airplay back in the day, would have been a logical inclusion here. Oh well, It's still 30 songs of heavy metal history!

BLACK RAIN (2007) SONY BMG/EPIC

I'd never thought Ozzy would ever release another solo album. His latest tour showed a man who was not exactly on top of his game any longer. But wonders can be done with pitch control and other studio tricks, right? Nevertheless, Ozzy's voice is not what has gotten the worst critics on this album. It's the production that gets the thumbs down. "Too modern", "not heavy enough", "commercial" are all things I've read on the internet. And I must agree that this sounds more like mix of Black Label Society and Rob Zombie than it does any of the classic Ozzy albums. I can't say that I'm surprised though, as 8 of the 10 songs are co-written by Zakk Wylde, and all 10 of them are co-written by the producer, Kevin Churko. Still, I have to say that what matters the most is the actual song material. And I really find 'Black Rain' to be just as good as anything else Ozzy's recorded during the last 15 years. "Not Going Away", "I Don't Wanna Stop" and "Civilize The Universe" are good songs, period! And the 2 ballads, "Lay Your World On Me" and "Here For You", although showing Ozzy's current restrictions as a vocalist, are still also great tunes. So I'm not sure what all the negative fuss is all about. Sure, this is no new 'No More Tears' or 'Blizzard Of Ozz'. It's just another solid Ozzy Osbourne platter! I, for one, like it!

Killer tracks: Not Going Away, I Don't Wanna Stop, Lay Your World On Me, Civilize The Universe, Here For You, Trap Door

SCREAM (2010) SONY MUSIC

'Black Rain' took one helluva beating from fans and critics alike. People biggest gripe seemed to be that Ozzy had started to sound more and more like Black Label Society, axe-slinger's Zakk Wylde's other band. In an attempt to rectify this, I guess, Zakk was let go from the line-up, just in time before the recording of Ozzy's new album, 'Scream'. Originally entitled 'Soul Sucker', it was changed due to fans reactions to it online. So don't say that Ozzy ain't listening to his fans anymore!

Soon after the news of Zakk's departure from the band, rumors of his replacement ran ramped online. Still, I don't think anyone could have foreseen that the job would go to Gus G., relatively known guitarist for Firewind, whom also helped spawn bands such as Dream Evil, Mystic Prophecy and Nightrage. No even after Ozzy announced that he has found a great Greek guitar player. Still, this unlikely match of master and apprentice works like a charm. I'm not sure how many who thought that Gus would stampede in to a glasshouse, adding his "modern" metal playing-style to the classic sound of Ozzy's music. But if anyone did, they thought wrong. Gus is a perfect match for Ozzy, anno 2010. Like a mix of Zakk Wylde and Jake E. Lee the young man is riffing his way through this silver disc like there is no tomorrow. One must of course assume that he has had little to no impact on the songwriting for this album. Still he is bringing a lot to the table, and makes sure that the guitar work is at least taken care of in a solid manner. The more I listen to "Scream", the more I am convinced that Gus is the star here.

Online reviews I've read makes me wonder if people have really taken time to listened to this album. The consensus seems to be that this is an all time low for Ozzy and his band. Again, what album are these guys listening too? The gripe seems to be the somewhat modern production, and the overall poppy sound on 'Scream'. Well, when did Ozzy ever not use famous producers and state of the art production? I can agree that producer Kevin Churko has sat his stamp on this album in the same manner he did on 'Black Rain', as he has co-written all the songs on 'Scream' too. So he is probably even more responsible for the Black Label Society comparisons more so than Zakk himself ever was. And sure, there are some songs here that are clearly written in hopes of getting radio play. But again, so were songs on 'No Rest For The Wicked' and 'No more Tears', two of Ozzy's albums that long time fans always rate high. People need to start listening again, and keep their pre-conceived notions in check. I know it's popular to bag on Ozzy these days. Heck, I've written the man off myself so many times after travesties like 'The Osbournes' and all of Sharon's antics. That still doesn't make 'Scream' a bad record!

Personally I really like this CD. Just about all of the songs are good, and that makes this Ozzy's finest moment since 'No More Tears'! If you get past the "modern" production, you'll find a pretty heavy album. Just check out "Diggin' Me Down" and "I Want It More". I also like how catchy the songs are here. Hooks are so important, even in metal, and on 'Scream' there are hooks in abundance. Ozzy has always delivered some great ballads. Here the ballads are some of the best tunes presented. All in all I find 'Scream' to be a diverse album. Some of the songs are pretty a-typical for the prince of darkness. But as long as they work, then why not? 'Scream' is one of the most positive surprise for me in a long time, and it will give me great pleasure to add it relatively high on my top 20 list of 2010 releases.

Killer tracks: Let It Die, Let Me Hear You Scream, Soul Sucker, Life Won't Wait, Diggin' Me Down, Crucify, I Want It More

Ozzy Osbourne also appear on:

V/A - 'More Power Ballads'

Ozzy Osbourne guest appearances:

Alice Cooper - 'Hey Stoopid'

Alice Cooper - 'Along Came A Spider' (also as writer)

V/A - 'Nativity In Black - A tribute to Black Sabbath'

Jake E. Lee guest appearances:

Rob Rock - 'Rage Of Creation'

V/A - 'Metallic Assault - A Tribute To Metallica'

Robert Trujillo guest appearances:

V/A - 'Metallic Assault - A Tribute To Metallica'

Don Airey guest appearances:

Sinner - 'Comin' Out Fighting'

Metalium - 'Hero-Nation: Chapter Three'

Tommy Aldridge guest appearances:

V/A - 'Hear 'n Aid: Stars'

V/A - 'Metallic Assault - A Tribute To Metallica'

Phil Sossan guest appearances:

V/A - 'Hear 'n Aid: Stars'

Ozzy Osbourne tribute album(s):

Ozzy Osbourne members also play/have played with:

Black Sabbath, Quiet Riot, Rainbow, Metallica, Dio, Yngwie Malmsteen, M.A.R.S., Malice, Cacophony, Heaven & Hell, Firewind, Dream Evil, Mystic Prophecy, Lizzy Borden