Black Sabbath

Many consider Black Sabbath's 1973 release, Sabbath Bloody Sabbath, to be the original lineup's last true classic album. Drug use and alcoholism were beginning to overtake the band (leading to Ozzy Osbourne's eventual departure by decade's end), yet they were still firing on all cylinders. While the casual fan may only be familiar with one selection (the storming title track), Sabbath Bloody Sabbath follows in the tradition of its predecessors, delivering a consistent set of songs from beginning to end. Tony Iommi's riff for "A National Acrobat" remains one of his best and heaviest, while other highlights include the strangely uplifting "Sabbra Cadabra" (which Metallica would cover 25 years later for their Garage Inc. compilation), the cautionary tales "Killing Yourself to Live" and "Who Are You," plus the sci-fi-tinged "Spiral Architect." As with past albums, a tranquil selection is included as a break from all the metallic fury; in this case, it's the gorgeous yet melancholic instrumental "Fluff." Sabbath Bloody Sabbath remains one of Sabbath's all-time best albums. ~ Greg Prato, All Music Guide