Release Date: 21st June 2010
With the long term musical partnership of Ozzy and Zakk Wylde splitting up in July 2009 and the introduction of Gus G (Firewind, ex-Dream Evil) at BlizzCon the following month there was an air of palatable excitement from Ozzy fans who felt that the previous records with Wylde were sounding more and more like a side-project of Zakk's own band Black Label Society.
The first thing you notice about "Scream" is the power metal influences of Gus G. Opening track "Let It Die" is a powerful, churning heavy metal song which immediately catches your attention before throwing you full tilt into first single "Let Me Hear You Scream" which really is Ozzy at his very best for many years. As with almost every Ozzy record there is a ballad and in this case it is no different; "Time" is a typical lighters in the air tune with a sweet solo from Gus G who although at times seems rather repressed has moments of sheer genius. Unlike his previous effort (2007's "Black Rain"), each track feels like it has it's place and is not simply filler around a few singles; Songs like "Life Won't Wait" and "Diggin' Me Down" have pounding acoustic sections which build up into slices of pure metal while "Crucify" and "Fearless" are a headbangers dream.
Everybody around the world regardless of music preference knows the sound of Ozzy's voice and there is no surprise that he tries nothing new on this record. His trademark haunting drone weaves in amongst the fresh guitar playing and chugging rhythm section to create a quintessential heavy metal record. With Bass and Drums provided by two former members of Rob Zombies backing band there is no surprise that there is an almost industrial feel to the music but this only enhances the power metal influences of Gus G who does a good job establishing himself as Ozzy's new right hand man.
Coming in at just under 45 minutes the album does feel a little short but at 61, the former Black Sabbath frontman can be excused for this. Backed by a new guitarist and drummer, Ozzy seems rejuvenated and ready once again to prove that he is still one of the most iconic figures in heavy metal today. A solid new record and Ozzfest returning to the UK for the first time in 5 years means that life is looking up for Ozzy & co. (8/10)
Jakk Knox
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