CD Review: Ozzy Osbourne

Ozzy Osbourne
Scream
3.75/5

Listen To: Life Won't Wait
Skip It: I Want It More

Ozzy Osbourne told Classic Rock Magazine in 2009 that in fear of sounding too much like Black Label Society, his twenty plus year career with guitarist Zakk Wylde would cease. The new shredder aboard the crazy train is Gus G. of Firewind and Arch Enemy fame, accompanied by a new drummer, Tommy Clufetos of recent Alice Cooper and Ted Nugent albums.

Resulting from the personnel shuffle is Scream, an album that at times offers a tamed glimpse of the Prince of Darkness. For example, album opener "Let It Die" projects worldly aspects with maracas and hand drums throughout the slow moving, six minute heavy rock medley. Later on the disc, the maraca returns on "Latimer's Mercy,” alongside an array of guitar effects including resonating delay and a talkbox.

Ozzy uses Scream to flex his softer side with acoustic ballads "Life Won't Wait,” albeit infused with heavy power chord choruses from Gus G. Another less dark number, "Time,” features violin and high pitched background vocals. Final track "I Love You All" is simple, a minute of twiddling acoustic strings and Ozzy rejoicing For all these years you've stood by me, God Bless, I love you all. The songs are emotional and uplifting, welcome contrasts to tell-tale Osbourne enormity.

Fear not, Scream also fires a barrage of metal at the ears. "Fearless,” "Soul Sucker" and "Diggin' Me Down" top out the decibels with hooky heavy metal and hardcore riffs. On the stadium worthy "Let Me Hear You Scream" Ozzy belts Let me hear you scream like you want it, Let me hear you yell like you mean it in his signature anthemic chants. And, all over Scream there are examples of Gus G.'s lead talent to keep you entertained.

Track Listing:

1. Let It Die
2. Let Me Hear You Scream
3. Soul Sucker
4. Life Won't Wait
5. Diggin' Me Down
6. Crucify
7. Fearless
8. Time
9. I Want It More
10. Latimer's Mercy
11. I Love You All

Published by Tangible Sounds Music Magazine