If you're among the many who think that the years of heavy drinking, partying and copious amounts of drugs have some how pickled Ozzy Osbourne's brain like a cocktail onion, reducing him to the mumbling, mummy-ish cartoon seen on MTV's "The Osbournes" then let it be known that the clarity, focus and intelligence Ozzy's ninth studio album "Black Rain" may come a surprise to those expecting a catastrophe of slurred speech and random, frightening exclamations. In fact, according to Ozzy's interview in Reuters, this is the first album he's recorded sober. As he puts it, "I thought I'd never write again without any stimulation... But you know what? Instead of picking of the bottle I just got honest and said, 'I don't want life to go (to pieces)'."
The result of clean living has produced a tight, enjoyable album with tempered ferocity, wit and purpose. Fans hoping for the signature Ozzy style won't be disappointed as he's once again teamed up with long-time collaborator Zakk Wylde who brings his well-known prowess on the six strings to the table and tears up some highly decent solos. The rest of the band (bassist Blasko and drummer Mike Bordin) don't slouch for a moment and match Oz and Zakk's intensity and pace perfectly. Driving tunes like the single "I Don't Wanna Stop", "Silver" and "Trap Door" satisfy the head banging urge while the traditional monster ballads "Lay Your World on Me" and "Here for You" remind us all of Ozzy's softer, tender side. Also here are the ubiquitous political rants, "Black Rain", God Bless the Almighty Dollar", "Countdown's Begun" and "Civilize the Universe" regarding the very popular topics: The Iraq War, Government Corruption and Culture Imperialism. Though many elder rocksmiths have put in their two cents on current events in the last year or so many of them simply come off as preachy or placating; Ozzy, while treading a trodden path, brings a sincerity and presence to rock's war cry that hasn't been effectively felt in recent releases. The nearly six year break between recordings has proved that while time may soldier on the briny effects of his debaucherous lifestyle have preserved his Ozzy's edge and that, somewhere between the traces of alcohol and amphetamines, producing excellent metal is in his blood.Puffmagic gives "Black Rain" by Ozzy Osbourne 4.5 out of 5 Rob Gordons
Mog Rating: 9 out of 10 stars
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