Black Sabbath's 1978 album, "Never Say Die!" captures a band at a crossroads. Released during a time of musical upheaval and internal struggles, the album reflects a mix of classic heavy metal and experimental forays into jazz and other genres. While not their most commercially successful or critically acclaimed work, "Never Say Die!" offers a glimpse into a band pushing their boundaries, even as they faced an uncertain future.
On this page you will find a detailed description of the album BLACK SABBATH - Say Die with large photos of the album cover ( front and back ) , record labels
In 1978, the musical landscape was shifting. Punk and New Wave were challenging the dominance of classic rock, and disco was still a force on the dance floor. Amidst this changing tide, Black Sabbath, the pioneers of heavy metal, released their eighth studio album, "Never Say Die!" It was a transitional record, marking the end of an era for the band and reflecting the internal struggles and external pressures they faced.
Historical Context and Band Dynamics
By 1978, Black Sabbath had already cemented their place in music history. Their early albums like "Black Sabbath," "Paranoid," and "Master of Reality" had defined the heavy metal genre with their dark riffs, occult themes, and Ozzy Osbourne's distinctive vocals. However, the band was not without its challenges. Substance abuse and internal tensions were taking a toll, and their previous album, "Technical Ecstasy," had received mixed reviews.
"Never Say Die!" was recorded in a tense atmosphere. The band members were battling personal demons, and their creative differences were becoming more pronounced. Ozzy Osbourne, in particular, was struggling with addiction and his commitment to the band. This internal turmoil would ultimately lead to his departure after the album's release.
Musical Exploration and Genre Evolution
"Never Say Die!" is a fascinating album that showcases Black Sabbath's willingness to experiment while staying true to their heavy metal roots. The album opens with the title track, a hard-rocking anthem with a catchy chorus that became a minor hit. Other songs like "Johnny Blade" and "Hard Road" feature the band's signature heavy riffs and dark lyrics.
However, the album also includes forays into different musical territories. "A National Acrobat" incorporates jazz elements, while "Air Dance" features a prominent horn section. "Breakout" is an instrumental track with a jazzy feel, and "Swinging the Chain" features drummer Bill Ward on lead vocals. These musical explorations demonstrate the band's versatility and willingness to push boundaries, even as they faced internal strife.
Production Team and Critical Reception
"Never Say Die!" was produced by Black Sabbath themselves, with additional engineering by Dave Harris. The album's production is polished and professional, capturing the energy of the band's live performances while highlighting their musical experimentation.
Upon its release, "Never Say Die!" received mixed reviews. Some critics praised the album's diversity and musicality, while others found it uneven and lacking the focus of the band's earlier work. The album's commercial performance was also relatively modest compared to their previous releases.
Music Genre: Heavy Metal Hard Rock |
Album Production Information: Produced by Black Sabbath Essex Music |
Record Label & Catalognr: Vertigo 9124 101 |
Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Record 135 grams vinyl |
Year & Country: 1978 Made in Germany |
Complete Track Listing of: Black Sabbath Never Say Die |
The Song/tracks on "Black Sabbath Never Say Die " are
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Album cover photos of : Black Sabbath Never Say Die |
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Note: the above pictures are actual photos of the album and allow you to judge the quality of cover. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. |
WWA 101 , 1975 , United Kingdom
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Eternal Idol 12" Vinyl LPNEMS NEL 6009 , 1977 , West-Germany
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Greatest Hits ( NEMS White Label ) 12" Vinyl LP1977
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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Headless Cross 12" Vinyl LPVertigo 6302 017 (6302 017) , 1980 , Germany
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Heaven and Hell 12" Vinyl LPVertigo 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 GermanyVertigo 6650 009, 1983 , Netherlands
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Live Evil 2LP NetherlandsNEMS - 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 LPWarner 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 LPWWA 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 LPVertigo 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 LPVertigo 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 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'
Paranoid ( Germany ) 12" Vinyl LPWarner 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 LPVertigo 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 LPVertigo 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 LPVictoria 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