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. A sonic journey through their discography, "Live Evil" stands as a timeless testament to the band's enduring impact on heavy metal.
On the 16th of December 1982, Black Sabbath unleashed a monumental piece of heavy metal history upon the world - the "Live Evil" 12" Vinyl 2LP Album. This live recording stands as a testament to the band's enduring legacy and their unparalleled impact on the heavy metal genre. Here we delve into the history of Black Sabbath, the context surrounding the creation of "Live Evil," and the album's enduring significance.
The Birth of Black Sabbath:
To truly appreciate "Live Evil," one must first understand the roots of Black Sabbath. Formed in Birmingham in 1968, the original lineup consisted of Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass), and Bill Ward (drums). They are widely regarded as the pioneers of heavy metal, crafting a sound that combined ominous riffs, dark lyrics, and a foreboding atmosphere.
Evolution of the Band:
Over the years, Black Sabbath underwent several lineup changes, with Ronnie James Dio replacing Ozzy Osbourne as the lead vocalist in 1979. This transition marked a new era for the band, characterized by a shift in musical style and thematic elements.
The Making of "Live Evil":
"Live Evil" was recorded during the band's 1982 world tour in support of their studio albums "Heaven and Hell" (1980) and "Mob Rules" (1981), both featuring Dio on vocals. The decision to release a live album at this point in their career was strategic, capturing the energy and intensity of their performances during a period of reinvention.
The album was recorded at various locations, including The Sports Arena in Long Beach, California, and The Hammersmith Odeon in London. The meticulous selection of tracks showcased the band's evolution, featuring classics from the Ozzy era alongside newer material with Dio at the helm.
Musical Highlights:
"Live Evil" is a sonic journey through Black Sabbath's rich discography. From the haunting opening track "E5150" to the iconic "Heaven and Hell" and the thunderous "War Pigs," each song resonates with the power and passion of a band at the peak of their live performance prowess.
Tony Iommi's masterful guitar work, Geezer Butler's thunderous bass lines, Bill Ward's dynamic drumming, and Ronnie James Dio's commanding vocals collectively create a sonic experience that captures the essence of Black Sabbath.
Legacy and Influence:
"Live Evil" not only immortalized Black Sabbath's live presence but also solidified their status as one of the most influential bands in the history of heavy metal. The album has stood the test of time, continuing to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
The album: "BLACK SABBATH - Live Evil" was produced by: Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler.
Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Bill Freesh, Lee De Carlo
This album was recorded at: live in Seattle, San Antonio and Dallas
Recorded with The Record Plant Mobile, Los Angeles
Mixed at The Record Plant, Los Angeles
Album cover design and Artwork : Jay Vigon, Paul Clark, Stan Watts
Album cover photography: Mark "Weissguy" Weiss, Patrick "Flash" Harbron
Mark Weiss (Nickname: Weissguy) is an acclaimed American rock and roll photographer who has captured the essence and energy of some of the most iconic moments in music history. With his keen eye for detail and ability to connect with his subjects, Weiss has become synonymous with the visual documentation of the rock and roll scene.
Born and raised in New Jersey, Mark Weiss discovered his passion for photography at a young age. Inspired by the vibrant music culture of the 1970s, he set out to combine his love for music with his growing interest in photography. Armed with his camera, Weiss began attending concerts and local gigs, capturing the electrifying performances of emerging and established rock acts.
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Weiss's career gained momentum as he became the go-to photographer for many rock bands. He developed a reputation for his ability to capture the raw energy and charisma of the musicians, as well as the electric atmosphere of live performances. His photographs not only showcased the artists in their element but also transported viewers into the heart of the rock and roll experience.
One of Weiss's most iconic collaborations was with the legendary rock band Bon Jovi. From the early days of their career, Weiss developed a close relationship with the band members and their management, which allowed him unprecedented access to document their rise to superstardom. His photographs became an integral part of Bon Jovi's image, capturing the band's infectious energy and forging a visual legacy that would endure for decades.
Mark Weiss's work extended beyond Bon Jovi, as he photographed and developed relationships with numerous other rock icons. He captured the larger-than-life personas of artists such as Van Halen, Guns N' Roses, Aerosmith, and Motley Crue, among many others. Weiss's photographs adorned album covers, magazines, and concert posters, encapsulating the essence of the rock and roll lifestyle and contributing to the visual iconography of the era.
Throughout his career, Weiss has exhibited a remarkable ability to connect with his subjects and gain their trust, allowing him to capture intimate and candid moments both on and off the stage. His photographs convey not only the spectacle of rock performances but also the humanity and vulnerability of the artists behind the scenes, creating a comprehensive visual narrative of their lives and careers.
In addition to his work as a live music photographer, Mark Weiss has also ventured into other areas of the industry. He has directed music videos, designed album covers, and collaborated with various media outlets and galleries to showcase his extensive collection of rock and roll photography. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the music industry and continue to inspire new generations of photographers and music lovers.
Mark Weiss's body of work represents more than just photographs. It is a testament to the power of visual storytelling and the profound impact that music can have on people's lives. Through his lens, he has immortalized the legends of rock and roll, providing fans with a glimpse into the exhilarating world of music and preserving the spirit of an era that will forever hold a special place in the hearts of fans around the world.
Heavy Metal, NWOBHM, Hard Rock
Vertigo 6650 009, Vertigo 6302 202, Vertigo 6302 203
Gatefold (FOC) cover design with artwork / photos on the inside cover pages
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 460 gram
1983 Netherlands
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.
Ronald James Padavona, better known as Ronnie James Dio, was born on 10 July 1942, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. He would later become one of the most influential and iconic figures in the history of heavy metal music. Dio's powerful vocals, distinct stage presence, and songwriting abilities earned him the title of the "King of Heavy Metal".
Dio's musical journey began in 1957 when he formed his first band called The Vegas Kings, where he showcased his talents as a lead singer. Over the next few years, he went on to perform with various bands, including Ronnie and the Rumblers and Ronnie and the Redcaps. These early experiences helped him develop his vocal skills and stage persona.
In 1961, Dio joined Ronnie and the Prophets, a band that gained some local popularity. During this time, he experimented with different musical styles and expanded his repertoire. In 1967, the band changed its name to The Electric Elves and later simply The Elves. As The Elves, they played a blend of rock and blues, laying the groundwork for Dio's future ventures.
In 1972, the band transformed once again and became known as ELF. Their music continued to evolve, incorporating elements of hard rock and progressive rock. ELF released three studio albums, showcasing Dio's exceptional vocal range and his ability to captivate audiences.
Dio's big breakthrough came in 1975 when he joined the British rock band Rainbow, founded by former Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. With Dio as the lead vocalist, Rainbow gained international recognition and released several critically acclaimed albums. Dio's powerful vocals and poetic lyrics contributed to the band's success, and he quickly became a respected figure in the rock music scene.
In 1979, Dio made yet another significant move in his career by joining Black Sabbath, replacing the band's original vocalist, Ozzy Osbourne. With Dio, Black Sabbath released the classic albums "Heaven and Hell" (1980) and "Mob Rules" (1981), which revitalized the band's sound and solidified their place in heavy metal history.
In 1982, Dio formed his own band, simply named DIO, and embarked on a highly successful solo career. The band released numerous albums, including the critically acclaimed "Holy Diver" (1983) and "The Last in Line" (1984), which showcased Dio's songwriting abilities and his powerful vocals.
Dio reunited with Black Sabbath for a brief period from 1991 to 1992 and again from 2006 to 2010 under the name Heaven & Hell. The band released the album "The Devil You Know" (2009) before Dio's untimely death in 2010.
Throughout his career, Ronnie James Dio influenced countless musicians and fans with his distinctive voice, theatrical stage presence, and unwavering passion for heavy metal. His lyrics often explored fantasy and mythology, adding depth and a unique dimension to his music.
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.
Vinny Appice, born on 13 September 1957, is a renowned drummer whose powerful and precise playing style has left an indelible mark on the world of rock music. Hailing from an immensely talented musical family, Vinny's extraordinary skills behind the drum kit have earned him widespread acclaim, and he has become a respected figure in the music industry. As the younger brother of the legendary drummer Carmine Appice, Vinny's journey into the world of rock and roll was destined from an early age. Throughout his career, he has worked with some of the most influential bands and musicians, leaving an enduring legacy as one of the finest drummers of his generation.
Early Life and Musical Upbringing:
Vinny Appice was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, USA, to Italian immigrant parents. Growing up in a household immersed in music, Vinny and his older brother Carmine were introduced to the world of drums and percussion at an early age. Their father, who played the jazz trumpet, and their mother, who had a passion for singing, encouraged the musical pursuits of their sons.
At the age of nine, Vinny's fascination with the drums began, and he started taking lessons to refine his skills. Carmine, already a seasoned drummer and a role model for Vinny, played a pivotal role in his musical development, providing guidance and inspiration. The two brothers spent countless hours practicing together, honing their techniques and pushing each other to reach new heights.
Breakthrough with Black Sabbath:
In the late 1970s, Vinny Appice's career took a momentous turn when he got the opportunity of a lifetime – joining the iconic heavy metal band Black Sabbath. He replaced the band's original drummer, Bill Ward, and made his debut on their 1980 album "Heaven and Hell". Vinny's thunderous drumming and precision timing perfectly complemented the band's new musical direction, which saw the arrival of Ronnie James Dio as the lead vocalist.
During his time with Black Sabbath, Vinny Appice made significant contributions to the albums "Mob Rules" (1981) and "Live Evil" (1982), solidifying his reputation as a force to be reckoned with behind the drum kit. His drumming skills became synonymous with the raw power and energy that defined Black Sabbath's music.
Dio and Other Musical Ventures:
After his stint with Black Sabbath, Vinny Appice followed Ronnie James Dio when the vocalist left the band to form the band "Dio". Vinny became an integral part of the group, leaving his mark on classic albums like "Holy Diver" (1983), "The Last in Line" (1984), and "Sacred Heart" (1985). The band's success and critical acclaim further elevated Vinny's status as a premier drummer in the rock and metal community.
Vinny's musical journey also included collaborations with other notable artists and bands. He worked with artists like Ozzy Osbourne, WWIII, and Rick Derringer, showcasing his versatility and adaptability as a drummer.
Return to Black Sabbath and Later Years:
In the early 1990s, Vinny Appice rejoined Black Sabbath for the "Dehumanizer" (1992) album and subsequent tours. Once again, his powerful drumming contributed to the band's resurgence and reminded the world of his exceptional talent.
As the years passed, Vinny continued to pursue various projects, working with bands like Heaven & Hell (the band featuring Black Sabbath members without the original name due to legal issues) and Kill Devil Hill. His musical legacy continued to grow, and he remained an influential figure in the rock and metal scene.
Black Sabbath is one of the most influential and groundbreaking bands in the history of rock and heavy metal music. Formed in Birmingham, England in 1968, the band consisted of lead vocalist Ozzy Osbourne, guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler, and drummer Bill Ward. With their unique sound and dark imagery, Black Sabbath single-handedly created the heavy metal genre and laid the foundation for countless metal bands that followed.
Black Sabbath's sound was heavily influenced by blues rock, but they took it to a new level with the incorporation of dark and eerie elements. Their music often featured heavy and distorted guitar riffs, bass-driven grooves, and powerful drum beats, and the lyrics often dealt with darker and more ominous themes, such as death, evil, and the occult. This combination of hard-hitting music and lyrics that dealt with taboo subject matter was a departure from the more upbeat and lighthearted music that was popular at the time, and it quickly gained a cult following.
One of the key elements of Black Sabbath's sound was Tony Iommi's distinctive guitar playing. Iommi was known for his fast and aggressive playing style, which was characterized by his use of powerful riffs and solos. Despite losing the tips of two of his fingers in a factory accident, Iommi was able to adapt his playing style to accommodate the injury, and his signature sound became one of the hallmarks of the heavy metal genre.
In addition to their music, Black Sabbath's image was also a major factor in their appeal. The band was known for their dark and mysterious stage presence, and their album covers and merchandise often featured imagery of death, evil, and the occult. This aesthetic helped to further set them apart from other bands of the time and gave them a unique and memorable identity.Black Sabbath's impact on the heavy metal genre cannot be overstated. They were one of the first bands to play what would later be called heavy metal, and they paved the way for countless metal bands that followed. The band's influence can be heard in countless metal and hard rock bands, from early heavy metal pioneers like Judas Priest and Iron Maiden, to more contemporary bands like Slayer and Metallica.
Despite their success and influence, Black Sabbath faced numerous challenges throughout their career. The band was often criticized for their dark and controversial image, and they were frequently targeted by moral and religious groups who saw their music and lyrics as a threat to society. Despite these challenges, the band continued to produce new music and tour, and their popularity only continued to grow.
Black Sabbath had several line-up changes throughout their career. Here is a list of the most notable line-ups:
Original line-up (1968–1979): Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass), and Bill Ward (drums). This is considered the classic line-up of the band, and they recorded some of their most iconic albums together, including "Black Sabbath," "Paranoid," "Master of Reality," and "Sabbath Bloody Sabbath."
WWA 101 , 1975 , United Kingdom
This album "Attention! Volume Two" is a compilation album with Black Sabbath songs from the 1970's and includes some classic songs like: "Rat Salad" and "War Pigs".
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Vertigo 847.903 847903 , 1970 , France
"Black Sabbath" is the debut album by the British Heavy Metal band with the same name.
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Vertigo 814 271 , 1983 , West-Germany
This album cover eventually caused controversy and has been hated by some fans.
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Discos Victoria VLP-101 / 30.465, 30.466, 30.467 / 9094/3, Iberofon SA , 1984 , Spain
This "Collection Vol 1" is a hard to find compilation box-set containing 3 12" vinyl LP's.
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I.R.S 7 13155 , 1992 , EEC
Dehumanizer is the first album in over a decade to re-unite Ronnie James Dio and Vinny Appice
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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, coupled with striking cover art by Shoot That Tiger! and Cindy Palmano, solidified its impact. Released under Vertigo Records, it stands as a pivotal chapter in Black Sabbath's history."
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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
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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".
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I.R.S. 064-24 1005 , 1989 , EEC
This album "Headless Cross" has been released in 1989 on the I.R.S. Record Label and the band features "Brian May" , "Tony Martin", "Cozy Powell" and "Laurence Cottle".
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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.
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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 document of the Mob Rules World Tour
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Vertigo 6650 009, Vertigo 6302 202, Vertigo 6302 203 , 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. A sonic journey through their discography, "Live Evil" stands as a timeless testament to the band's enduring impact on heavy metal.
Learn more
Vertigo PRID 11 / 826-882 , 1983 , Netherlands
"Live Evil" is the first official live album by British heavy metal band Black Sabbath.
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NEMS - NEL 6004 , 1976 , USA
This album "Master of Reality (US)" is the third album released by the British Heavy Metal band: Black Sabbath.
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Warner Bros (WB) Records BS 2562 , Canada
This is the Canadian release of "Master of Reality" the third album released by the British Heavy Metal band: Black Sabbath.
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WWA Records WWA 008 , 1971 , England
This is the English release of "Master of Reality" , the third album released by the British Heavy Metal band: Black Sabbath.
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Vertigo 9124 101 , Vertigo 9124 101 1978 , Germany
"Never Say Day" is the 1978 official full-length album by the British Rock band "Black Sabbath"
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Vertigo 6360 011 (6360011) , 1970 , England
This is the collectable copy of Paranoid with the full swirl on the inner sleeve as well as on the record label. This page describes all the details of this album Paranoid.
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Vertigo AA 6360 011 (6360011) , 1970 , Germany
This is an early German release of Paranoid by Black Sabbath with the full swirl on the record label. This page describes all the details of this album.
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Warner Bros BS 2822 , 1975 , USA
This page describes "Sabotage" the sixth full-length album by "Black Sabbath" and released in 1975.
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Vertigo 6360 071 , 1972 , United Kingdom
"Vol 4" 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.
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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.
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Victoria Records VLP 106 / 40.470 , 1984 , Spain
This is the rare Spanish Edition of Black Sabbath's - We Sold Our Soul for Rock and Roll".
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