BLACK SABBATH - Born Again 12" Vinyl LP Album

- West-German release

Album Description

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.

Album Artwork Controversy

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.

Album Production Information:

The album: "BLACK SABBATH - Born Again" was produced by: Robin Black and Black Sabbath

Robin Black - Producer

Robin Black (Producer, Sound Engineer) active since the mid-1970s as sound engineer and producer for British music bands. He has worked on early albums for the British bands : "Blodwyn Pig" "Black Sabbath" and "Jethro Tull" .

Steve Chase - Sound Engineer

Ross Halfin - Photography

Steve Barrett - Artwork

Steve Joule - Artwork

Music Genre:

Hard Rock / Heavy Metal

Record Label Information

Vertigo 814 271

Packaging:

This album "BLACK SABBATH - Born Again" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and photos.

Media Format:

Record Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record. Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

1983 Made in West Germany

BLACK SABBATH - Self-Titled

Vertigo 847.903 847903 , 1970 , France

In the grimy, industrial heart of 1970, Black Sabbath unleashed their eponymous debut, a record that would shake the foundations of rock music and birth a new genre: heavy metal. This wasn't your parents' rock and roll; it was darker, heavier, and steeped in occult imagery that both intrigued and terrified.

BLACK SABBATH - Born Again ( Offensive Album Cover )

Vertigo 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

BLACK SABBATH - Collection Vol 1 3LP Box-set

Discos Victoria VLP-101 / 30.465, 30.466, 30.467 / 9094/3, Iberofon SA , 1984 , Spain

Released during a time of great musical exploration in the early 1970s, Black Sabbath's "Collection Vol 1" 3LP box-set is a testament to the band's pioneering role in the development of heavy metal. Emerging from the industrial landscape of Birmingham, England, Black Sabbath channeled their surroundings into a sound

BLACK SABBATH - Dehumanizer

  I.R.S 7 13155 , 1992 , EEC

Black Sabbath's "Dehumanizer" is a sonic sledgehammer, reuniting Dio and Appice with the metal titans. This 1992 release delves into dark themes of technological dystopia and human frailty, driven by relentless riffs and Dio's soaring vocals. A raw and powerful album that cements their legacy.

BLACK SABBATH - Eternal Idol

Vertigo 832 708 , 1987, Netherlands

"Black Sabbath's 'The Eternal Idol' (1987) ushered in a new era with vocalist Tony Martin. Produced by Patrick Meehan, Jeff Glixman, Chris Tsangarides, and Vic Coppersmith-Heaven, it showcased the band's evolution. Recorded at top studios, the album's sonic exploration and production finesse,

BLACK SABBATH - Greatest Hits ( White Label )

NEMS NEL 6009 , 1977 , West-Germany

This is the "Greatest Hits" compilation album released in 1977 on the NEMS Record Label. The illustration on the album front cover is "El Triunfo de la Muerte" by Pieter Bruegel, El Viejo and the record's label is white with black typography

BLACK SABBATH - Greatest Hits ( "Fried Egg" Label )

1977

This is the "Greatest Hits" compilation album released in 1977 on the NEMS Record Label. The illustration on the album front cover is "El Triunfo de la Muerte" by Pieter Bruegel, El Viejo and the record's label shows a "Fried Egg".

BLACK SABBATH - Headless Cross

 I.R.S. 064-24 1005 , 1989 , EEC

"Headless Cross" was the 14th studio album by Black Sabbath and was released on 24 April 1989. The album was recorded at Battery Studios in London. The album featured 10 tracks, including the titular "Headless Cross," "Devil & Daughter," and "When Death Calls."

BLACK SABBATH - Heaven and Hell

Vertigo 6302 017 (6302 017) , 1980 , Germany

"Heaven and Hell" was the first album after singer Ozzy Osbourne left the band and was the first album featuring Ronnie James Dio , formerly of Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow, who brought his own unique style of song writing and vocalisation to the "Black Sabbath" band.

BLACK SABBATH - Live Evil 2Lp Germany

Vertigo 6302 202 , 1983 , West-Germany

"Live Evil", released in 1982 and in January 1983 in the UK, is the first "official" live album by British heavy metal band Black Sabbath, the previously released Live at Last (1980) not having been sanctioned by the band. It was recorded with Ronnie James Dio singing and is a of the Mob Rules World Tour

BLACK SABBATH - Live Evil 2LP Netherlands

Vertigo 6650 009, 1983 , Netherlands

Black Sabbath's "Live Evil" 2LP Album, released on December 16, 1982, immortalizes the band's live prowess during their 1982 world tour. Recorded at iconic venues, the album seamlessly blends classics from the Ozzy era with Dio's powerful vocals, showcasing Black Sabbath's evolution.

BLACK SABBATH - Live Evil 2LP Netherlands

Vertigo PRID 11 / 826-882 , 1983 , UK / England

Black Sabbath's "Live Evil," a double live album released in 1982, captures the band's tumultuous yet creatively fertile period with Ronnie James Dio at the helm. Recorded during their 1982 world tour, "Live Evil" documents the band's dynamic live performances, showcasing a mix of Dio-era material

BLACK SABBATH - Master of Reality ( USA )

NEMS - 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,

BLACK SABBATH - Master of Reality ( Canada )

Warner Bros (WB) Records BS 2562 , Canada

In the heart of 1971, Black Sabbath's "Master of Reality" landed in Canada, a sonic earthquake shaking the foundations of rock. Its raw, distorted riffs, Ozzy's haunting vocals, and lyrics delving into darkness resonated with a generation seeking rebellion. This Canadian release cemented the band's place

BLACK SABBATH - Master of Reality ( WWA Records )

WWA Records WWA 008 , 1971 , England

Black Sabbath's "Master of Reality" (1971) is a landmark heavy metal album. Its down-tuned guitars, sludgy riffs, and Ozzy Osbourne's eerie vocals explore themes of drug use, war, and societal disillusionment. The album's raw sound and iconic tracks like "Sweet Leaf" and "Children of the Grave"

BLACK SABBATH - Never Say Die

Vertigo 9124 101 , Vertigo 9124 101 1978 , Germany

"Never Say Die!" captures Black Sabbath at a turning point, with Ozzy Osbourne's imminent departure casting a shadow over the album. While experimenting with jazz and pop elements alongside their signature heavy metal sound, the band's internal struggles are evident.

BLACK SABBATH - Paranoid ( Gt. Britain )

Vertigo 6360 011 (6360011)    , 1970 , England

Black Sabbath's "Paranoid" UK 1st pressing on Vertigo with the full swirl label is a sought-after heavy metal record. Released in 1970, this album features genre-defining tracks like "War Pigs" and "Iron Man," This particular pressing is a collector's dream, prized for its rarity and historical significance.

BLACK SABBATH - Paranoid ( Germany )

Vertigo 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'

BLACK SABBATH - Sabotage

Warner Bros BS 2822 , 1975 , USA

Black Sabbath's "Sabotage" (1975) is a raw and intense album that showcases a heavier, more experimental side of the band. Born out of internal turmoil and legal battles, the album features aggressive riffs, complex song structures, and darker lyrics reflecting their frustration.

BLACK SABBATH - Vol 4 ( Full Swirl , 1972 )

Vertigo 6360 071 , 1972 , United Kingdom

Black Sabbath's "Vol. 4" is a landmark heavy metal album released in 1972. It features iconic tracks like "Snowblind" and "Supernaut," showcasing the band's signature dark sound and Ozzy Osbourne's powerful vocals. This Vertigo swirl label vinyl LP is a sought-after collector's item for fans

BLACK SABBATH - Vol 4 ( France )

Vertigo 6360 071 , 1972 , France

This is the French Edition of Black Sabbath's Vol 4 which was originally to be titled Snowblind, after one of several tracks referring to cocaine use. The album was recorded in California, the first time Sabbath had recorded a studio album outside the United Kingdom.

BLACK SABBATH - We Sold Our Soul for Rock and Roll

Victoria Records VLP 106 / 40.470 , 1984 , Spain

Black Sabbath's "We Sold Our Soul for Rock and Roll" gets the royal treatment in this Spanish 2LP vinyl release. Not only do you get the band's iconic sound in pure analog, but also a collectible poster to complete the experience. A must-have for any serious Sabbath fan or vinyl enthusiast.