- West-German release
The album front cover art, designed by Steve Joule, features an image of an infant with horns and vampire fangs. The cover eventually caused controversy and has been hated by some fans. Drummer Bill Ward has said that he did not like the album's cover and according to him, then-singer Ian Gillan told the press that he vomited when he first saw the cover. Guitarist Tony Iommi approved the album cover. Despite the controversy, the album has never had an alternate cover
On this page you will find a detailed description of the album "Born Again" by "Black Sabbath" with large photos of the album cover ( front and back ) , record labels (s) and vinyl records.
When it comes to heavy metal and rock music, few bands can claim the level of influence and impact that Black Sabbath has had. Throughout their storied career, they have pushed boundaries, challenged norms, and crafted some of the most iconic and enduring songs in the genre. One album that stands out in their extensive discography is "Born Again", released in 1983. In particular, the West-German release of this 12" vinyl LP album holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors and fans.
"Born Again" marked a significant moment for Black Sabbath as it was the only studio album to feature Ian Gillan, the legendary frontman of Deep Purple, on vocals. The band's lineup for this release included Tony Iommi on guitar, Geezer Butler on bass, and Bill Ward on drums. The album was produced by Robin Black and the band themselves, ensuring their artistic vision remained intact.
The sound engineering was handled by Steve Chase, who worked meticulously to capture the raw and heavy essence of Black Sabbath's music. Chase's expertise in capturing the intensity of live performances translated well into the studio environment, allowing the band's immense energy to shine through each track.
In terms of visual aesthetics, "Born Again" featured remarkable photography by Ross Halfin. Halfin, known for his work with numerous iconic rock bands, captured the band's larger-than-life presence and intensity. The album cover, featuring a demonic infant against a crimson background, instantly became a distinctive and memorable symbol of Black Sabbath's unique brand of dark and atmospheric music.
The artwork for the West-German release of "Born Again" was the brainchild of Steve Barrett and Steve Joule. Their collaboration resulted in a striking and visually captivating package that complemented the music perfectly. From the detailed illustrations to the overall design, the artwork captured the album's ominous and foreboding atmosphere, further immersing listeners into Black Sabbath's sonic world.
The year 1983 was a significant period for the band, and the West-German release of "Born Again" holds historical value for collectors and fans alike. Made in West Germany, this particular edition of the album became a coveted item for enthusiasts due to its unique characteristics and limited availability. Owning this vinyl LP album allowed fans to connect with the band's music in a tangible and authentic manner, capturing a moment in time that would never be replicated.
"Born Again" showcased Black Sabbath's ability to evolve their sound while staying true to their core identity. The album featured tracks like "Trashed", "Disturbing the Priest", and "Zero the Hero", which displayed the band's signature heavy riffs, dark lyrical themes, and captivating vocal performances by Ian Gillan. It was an album that pushed boundaries and demonstrated Black Sabbath's enduring relevance in the ever-evolving world of rock music.
Today, the West-German release of "Born Again" remains a prized possession for vinyl collectors and Black Sabbath enthusiasts. It serves as a testament to the band's influence, their willingness to explore new musical territories, and the timeless appeal of their music.
The artwork on the front cover of Black Sabbath's "Born Again" album generated significant controversy upon its release. The image depicted a distorted and demonic-looking infant against a vivid red background, evoking a sense of horror and unease. The controversial nature of the artwork sparked a variety of reactions and interpretations among fans, critics, and the general public.
One of the primary reasons for the controversy was the album's explicit and provocative imagery. The unsettling depiction of the demonic baby raised concerns among conservative and religious groups, who believed it promoted Satanic or occult themes. In the early 1980s, there was a heightened sensitivity and moral panic surrounding heavy metal music, with allegations of Satanic influence and hidden messages in songs. The artwork of "Born Again" inadvertently fed into these fears and added fuel to the fire.
Additionally, the album cover drew criticism for its perceived shock value and grotesque nature. The distorted face of the infant, with its bulging eyes and twisted expression, was seen as disturbing and offensive by some. The use of such unsettling imagery challenged societal norms and tested the boundaries of acceptable album artwork at the time.
Despite the controversy, it is important to note that the intention behind the artwork was not to promote Satanism or offend people. The band members themselves have clarified that the image was meant to represent the sense of darkness and evil conveyed through the album's music. It was an artistic interpretation of the album's overall theme rather than an endorsement of any particular ideology.
In response to the backlash, some record stores and distributors refused to carry the album or requested alternative covers to avoid potential controversy. As a result, different versions of the album cover were produced for certain markets, featuring altered artwork or different imagery altogether.
Over time, the controversial artwork of "Born Again" has become somewhat iconic and representative of the album's dark and foreboding atmosphere. It has become a recognizable symbol of Black Sabbath's ability to evoke emotions and push boundaries through their music and visual aesthetics.
The album: "BLACK SABBATH - Born Again" was produced by: Robin Black and Black Sabbath
Robin Black - Producer
Steve Chase - Sound Engineer
Ross Halfin - Photography
Steve Barrett - Artwork
Steve Joule - Artwork
Steve Joule ( Album Artwork Artist ) is a British Graphics designer, and DJ, during the early 1980s he has been designed album covers for British Rock bands like "Black Sabbath", Girlschool, Iron Maiden ( Live After Death ), "Ozzy Osbourne".
Hard Rock / Heavy Metal
Vertigo 814 271
This album "BLACK SABBATH - Born Again" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and photos.
Record Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record. Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1983 Made in West Germany
Geoff Nicholls (real-name: Geoffrey James Nicholls) is a keyboardist, musician and best known for the period where he performed with the NWOBHM band "Black Sabbath". Other bands he has performed with include Johnny Neal and the Starliners, Quartz, The Boll Weevils, The Seed, Tony Martin, World of Oz.
The Songs/tracks on "BLACK SABBATH - Born Again" are
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Back Cover Photo of "BLACK SABBATH - Born Again" Album |
Close-up of the Red Vertigo Record Label with catalognr 814 271-1
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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. |
The Prince of Darkness has passed. Ozzy Osbourne, a pioneer of heavy metal and cultural icon, left a legacy that reshaped rock music. From Black Sabbath to solo stardom, his voice, chaos, and charisma inspired generations. A true legend who blended mayhem with melody—and never looked back.
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In the realm of heavy metal music, few bands have achieved the iconic status and enduring influence of Black Sabbath. With their groundbreaking sound and dark lyrical themes, they pioneered a genre that continues to captivate listeners to this day. Among their many releases, the 1975 UK compilation album
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BLACK SABBATH - Self-Titled 12" Vinyl LPVertigo 814 271 , 1983 , West-Germany
"Born Again" marked a significant moment for Black Sabbath as it was the only studio album to feature Ian Gillan, the legendary frontman of Deep Purple, on vocals. The band's lineup for this release included Tony Iommi on guitar, Geezer Butler on bass, and Bill Ward on drums. The album was produced by Robin Black
Born Again ( Offensive Album Cover ) 12" Vinyl LPDiscos Victoria VLP-101 / 30.465, 30.466, 30.467 / 9094/3, Iberofon SA , 1984 , Spain
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Greatest Hits ( NEMS White Label ) 12" Vinyl LP1977
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Headless Cross 12" Vinyl LPVertigo 6302 017 (6302 017) , 1980 , Germany
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Live Evil 2LP NetherlandsVertigo PRID 11 / 826-882 , 1983 , UK / England
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Live Evil 2LP EnglandNEMS - NEL 6004 , 1976 , USA
Black Sabbath's "Master of Reality" is a 1971 heavy metal landmark. Its down-tuned riffs, dark lyrics about drugs and war, and experimental elements like a cough and cello solidified the band's sound and cemented their place in music history. Recorded at Island Studios with producer Rodger Bain,
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Paranoid ( Gt. Britain ) 12" Vinyl LPVertigo AA 6360 011 (6360011) , 1970 , Germany
Black Sabbath's "Paranoid" (1970) is a landmark heavy metal album, featuring iconic tracks like the title song and "Iron Man." It captured the raw energy and social unrest of the era, with Tony Iommi's down-tuned guitar riffs, Geezer Butler's thunderous bass, Bill Ward's powerful drumming, and Ozzy Osbourne'
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We Sold Our Soul for Rock and Roll 12" Vinyl LP