Sabbath Bloody Sabbath (CD - 1973)

1974's SABBATH BLOODY SABBATH is widely considered to be Black Sabbath's last true classic album. The musical experimentation that began on 1972's VOL. 4 was continued here, but this time it took the form of subtle synthesizer colorings (instead of VOL. 4's tranquil ballads). And whereas its predecessor didn't contain a true, instantly recognizable Sabbath anthem (save for "Snowblind"), SABBATH BLOODY SABBATH's title track resumed the quartet's penchant for penning heavy metal compositions that sounded like they were tailor made for being blasted in a huge arena.

While the title track is the album's best-known song, SABBATH BLOODY SABBATH proved to be another in a long line of 100% filler-free records from Ozzy and co. Highlights included the creepy "Who Are You?," plus the Tony Iommi riff-mongers "A National Acrobat," "Killing Yourself to Live," and "Sabra Cadabra," a song that Metallica would cover on its 1998 release GARAGE INC. You'll also find one of Sabbath's most haunting yet serene instrumentals, "Fluff," as well as the melodic album-closing rocker, "Spiral Architect." SABBATH BLOODY SABBATH is quintessential heavy metal. minimize