Bill Ward Wants Reunion Of Original Black Sabbath

October 2002 Promo Picture

There's been a lot of talk lately about drummer Bill Ward and his desire for another reunion of the original Black Sabbath lineup. Much has been made of his recent comments, like those at the end of an interview that appeared in The Shropshire Star, perhaps too much.

Personally, I would love to see it happen. With the success of Heaven & Hell (Black Sabbath / Dio fusion) though, I don't see it happening in the next couple years anyway. I wouldn't be surprised if former singer Ozzy Osbourne was up for it, but he's also doing fine with his band and TV shows as well.

In the following recent Kerrang! video podcast, Bill talks about early Black Sabbath album rereleases and his feelings on a possible Black Sabbath reunion. He also answers questions about the past, present and future, in relation to Black Sabbath, Ozzy, guitarist Tony Iommi and bassist Geezer Butler.

Kerrang! Podcast: Black Sabbath - Bill Ward

More Heaven And Hell In 2008?

Will there be more Heaven And Hell in 2008? Recent reports from BLABBERMOUTH.NET and Artisan News Service (Vinny Appice 3 part Interview) say yes, it looks that way. The band, which includes Black Sabbath's guitarist Tony Iommi and bassist Geezer Butler, along with former Sabbath drummer Vinny Appice and former lead singer Ronnie James Dio toured last year and released a live CD and DVD "Live At Radio City Music Hall" at the end of 2007. The latest word is that they are working on new material, with hopes of getting a studio CD out in 2008.

The band name Heaven And Hell comes from the first album they did together as Black Sabbath in 1980. They did a few albums and tours together in an on again off again relationship from 1980 - 1982 and 1991-1992. If they manage to release a studio CD album of new material this year, it will be the first time in over 15 years.

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Personally, I much prefer the original Black Sabbath lineup formed in the late 1960's with Ozzy Osbourne on lead vocals and Bill Ward on drums. They've had many member changes from time to time, and I've liked them all. But, the first lineup, which stayed in tact until 1979 was definitely best. I was lucky enough to see most of the different versions of the band live, including the "Reunion" tour with Ozzy and Bill when they were in Columbia, MD at Merriweather Post Pavilion August 14, 1999.

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I look forward to the new release later this year. Don't expect Heaven And Hell to tour in 2008 like some are saying. It's more likely to happen in early 2009. The rumor that Judas Priest will tour with them seems unlikely, as they start a world tour soon. Whenever it happens, I'd like to make it to this reunion tour as well.