"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
Black Sabbath is one of the most iconic heavy metal bands in history, known for their dark and heavy sound that influenced countless other bands. Their 1982 vinyl 12" LP "Live Evil" is a live album that captured the band at the peak of their powers, featuring recordings from their 1982 tour.
After releasing their album "Heaven and Hell" in 1980, Black Sabbath embarked on a world tour with new vocalist Ronnie James Dio. The tour was a huge success, and the band recorded several shows for a live album. The resulting album, "Live Evil," was released in 1982 on Warner Bros. Records.
The album was produced by Martin Birch, who had previously worked with bands like Deep Purple and Iron Maiden. Birch was known for his ability to capture the raw energy of live performances, and he brought that approach to "Live Evil."
"Live Evil" features a mix of classic Black Sabbath songs, such as "War Pigs" and "Iron Man," as well as songs from their then-recent album "Mob Rules," including "Sign of the Southern Cross" and "Voodoo." The album showcases the band's trademark heavy sound, with Tony Iommi's iconic riffs and Ronnie James Dio's powerful vocals.
One of the highlights of the album is the performance of "Children of the Sea," which features an extended guitar solo by Iommi. The solo is a masterclass in heavy metal guitar playing, showcasing Iommi's ability to blend melody and aggression.
Another standout track is "Heaven and Hell" which features a thunderous performance by drummer Vinny Appice. The song builds to a dramatic climax, with Dio's vocals soaring over Iommi's guitar.
"Live Evil" received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising the band's energy and others criticizing the production and controversial overdubs. The album's mix was also criticized, with some fans arguing that the vocals were too low in the mix.
Despite the criticism, "Live Evil" remains a beloved live album among Black Sabbath fans. The album captures a moment in time for one of heavy metal's most iconic bands, and showcases their power and energy on stage.
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
Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, NWOBHM
Vertigo 6302 202
Record Format: Double 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record, Packaged in Gatefold (FOC) cover
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 460 gram
1983 Made in West Germany
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