"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.
"Heaven and Hell" is a highly influential 12" vinyl LP album by the legendary heavy metal band Black Sabbath. Released in 1980, it marked a significant turning point in the band's career. This was the first album they recorded after the departure of their original vocalist, Ozzy Osbourne, and the introduction of Ronnie James Dio as the new lead singer.
Dio, previously known for his work with Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow, brought a fresh perspective and a powerful voice to Black Sabbath. His distinct songwriting and vocalization style infused the band's music with a renewed energy and vitality. The album showcased Dio's soaring vocals, combining elements of operatic grandeur with gritty, hard-hitting metal.
"Heaven and Hell" featured a collection of powerful and memorable tracks that solidified Black Sabbath's status as one of the pioneers of heavy metal. The title track, "Heaven and Hell", remains one of their most iconic songs, with its epic structure, captivating melodies, and powerful lyrics. Other notable tracks on the album include "Neon Knights", "Die Young", and "Children of the Sea", each displaying Dio's lyrical prowess and the band's dynamic musicianship.
Musically, "Heaven and Hell" showcased a shift towards a more melodic and progressive sound, while still retaining the signature heavy and dark atmosphere that Black Sabbath was known for. The album's production was crisp and polished, allowing each instrument to shine, and highlighting the band's tight and cohesive performance.
With "Heaven and Hell", Black Sabbath proved that they could not only survive the departure of their iconic frontman but also reinvent themselves and deliver an album that would stand the test of time. Dio's addition to the band breathed new life into their music and opened up exciting new possibilities for their sound.
Early British Heavy Metal, Hard Rock
The album: "BLACK SABBATH - Heaven and Hell DIO" was produced by: Martin Birch
Martin Birch's: The man behind the soundboard, shaping iconic rock and metal anthems. His journey from sound engineer to legendary producer is a testament to passion and innovation. Read on his career
Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Joe Foglia
Album cover design and illustrations: Harry Carmean, Lynn Curlee, Richard Seireeni
Vertigo 6302 017 (6302 017)
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
Year & Country: 1980 Made in Germany
Heavy metal legend Ronnie James Dio! His mighty voice and the iconic "devil horns" defined the genre. Here's his story
Bill Ward - DrumsBill Ward (Full-name: William Thomas Ward) an English drummer and percussionist, best known as a founding member of the heavy metal band Black Sabbath. He played with Black Sabbath from their formation in 1969 until 1980 and again from 1983 to 1985 and from 1990 to 1992. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Black Sabbath.
Ward was born in Birmingham, England in 1948, and began playing drums at a young age. In 1969, he co-founded Black Sabbath with guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler, and singer Ozzy Osbourne. Over the course of their career, Black Sabbath released numerous hit albums and became one of the biggest and most influential heavy metal bands of all time.
Ward's drumming is characterized by its power, precision, and versatility, and he is widely recognized as one of the greatest drummers in the history of heavy metal. He is known for his innovative use of syncopation, his ability to create complex rhythms, and his use of unconventional drumming techniques, such as using drumsticks and bare hands.
In addition to his work with Black Sabbath, Ward has also collaborated with numerous other artists, including Vinny Appice, Max Cavalera, and Chris Slade. He has been awarded numerous accolades for his contributions to the genre, and his contributions to heavy metal and rock music continue to be celebrated and recognized by fans and industry professionals alike.
Tony Iommi (Full-name: Anthony Frank Iommi) an English guitarist and songwriter, best known as the lead guitarist and one of the founding members of the heavy metal band Black Sabbath. Iommi is widely regarded as one of the most influential and important figures in the history of heavy metal, and is credited with helping to shape the sound and style of the genre.
Iommi was born in Birmingham, England in 1948 and began playing guitar at a young age. In 1969, he formed Black Sabbath with singer Ozzy Osbourne, bassist Geezer Butler, and drummer Bill Ward. The band's self-titled debut album, released in 1970, is considered one of the first heavy metal albums and is widely regarded as a classic of the genre. Over the course of their career, Black Sabbath released numerous hit albums, including "Paranoid" (1970), "Master of Reality" (1971), and "Sabbath Bloody Sabbath" (1973).
Iommi's guitar playing is characterized by his heavy, driving riffs, intricate solos, and use of distortion and feedback. He is widely recognized as one of the greatest guitarists in the history of rock music and has been awarded numerous accolades for his contributions to the genre. In 2005, he was ranked number 25 in Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time.
In addition to his work with Black Sabbath, Iommi has also collaborated with numerous other artists and released several solo albums. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Black Sabbath, and his contributions to heavy metal and rock music continue to be celebrated and recognized by fans and industry professionals alike.
Anthony Frank Iommi was born in Birmingham, City and Borough of Birmingham, England, United Kingdom on 19 February 1948. He is the first child of Anthony Frank Iommi Sr. and Sylvia Maria Valenti.
One of his partners was Valery Iommi 1987. He married Susan Snowdon in 1973. He married Melinda Diaz in 1980. He married Maria Sjöholm in 2005. He was 25 years old when he married Susan Snowdon. He was 32 years old when he married Melinda Diaz. He was 57 years old when he married Maria Sjöholm. He got divorced from Valery Iommi in 1993. He got divorced from Susan Snowdon in 1976. He got divorced from Melinda Diaz in 1985. He has one daughter with Melinda Diaz: Toni-Marie Iommi.
During 1980 he works as a musician in "Heaven and Hell", Black Sabbath. He was 32 years old at that point. During 1989 he works as a musician in "Headless Cross", Black Sabbath. He was 41 years old at that point. During 1989 he works as a musician in "Headless Cross", Black Sabbath. He was 41 years old at that point. His occupation is guitarist.
Terry "Geezer" Butler (Full-name: Terence Michael Joseph "Geezer" Butler) is an English bassist and songwriter, best known as the bassist and primary lyricist for the heavy metal band Black Sabbath. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential and important bassists in the history of heavy metal, and is credited with helping to shape the sound and style of the genre.
Butler was born in Birmingham, England in 1949 and formed Black Sabbath in 1969 with singer Ozzy Osbourne, guitarist Tony Iommi, and drummer Bill Ward. The band's self-titled debut album, released in 1970, is considered one of the first heavy metal albums and is widely regarded as a classic of the genre. Over the course of their career, Black Sabbath released numerous hit albums, including "Paranoid" (1970), "Master of Reality" (1971), and "Sabbath Bloody Sabbath" (1973).
Butler's bass playing is characterized by his heavy, driving basslines, innovative use of distortion and effects, and his ability to create memorable melodies and grooves. He is widely recognized as one of the greatest bassists in the history of rock music and has been awarded numerous accolades for his contributions to the genre. In 2005, he was ranked number 90 in Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 100 greatest bassists of all time.
In addition to his work with Black Sabbath, Butler has also collaborated with numerous other artists and released several solo albums. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Black Sabbath, and his contributions to heavy metal and rock music continue to be celebrated and recognized by fans and industry professionals alike.
WWA 101 , 1975 , United Kingdom
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
Attention! Volume Two 12" Vinyl LP
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 - Self-Titled 12" Vinyl LP
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
Born Again ( Offensive Album Cover ) 12" Vinyl LP
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
Collection Vol 1 3LP Box-set
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.
Dehumanizer 12" Vinyl LP
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,
Eternal Idol 12" Vinyl LP
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
Greatest Hits ( NEMS White Label ) 12" Vinyl LP
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".
Greatest Hits ( "Fried Egg" Label ) 12" Vinyl LP
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."
Headless Cross 12" Vinyl LP
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.
Heaven and Hell 12" Vinyl LP
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
Live Evil 2Lp Germany
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.
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
Live Evil 2LP Netherlands
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,
Master of Reality ( USA ) 12" Vinyl LP
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
Master of Reality ( Canada ) 12" Vinyl LP
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"
Master of Reality ( WWA Records ) 12" Vinyl LP
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.
Never Say Die 12" Vinyl LP
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.
Paranoid ( Gt. Britain ) 12" Vinyl LP
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'
Paranoid ( Germany ) 12" Vinyl LP
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.
Sabotage 12" Vinyl LP
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
Vol 4 ( Full Swirl , 1972 ) 12" Vinyl LP
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.
Vol 4 ( France ) 12" Vinyl LP
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.
We Sold Our Soul for Rock and Roll 12" Vinyl LP