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Ozzy Osbourne – Scream

Label: Epic
Format: CD
Released: 2010
Reviewed By: Rich Catino
Rating: 5/ 10


Wasn’t the purpose of getting a new guitarist (the talented, somewhat acclaimed yet unknown to many, Gus G), so to make new music that was once again exciting and original, not closer to Zakk Wylde’s band Black Label Society?

 

And…if that was the goal, wouldn’t you think the Osbourne camp would let Gus apply his talents to give Oz’s music a fresh sound, instead just telling the poor guy what to play? Because really that’s what "Scream" is…the same people who have been writing music for Ozzy since 1995’s "Ozzmosis" album ("Down To Earth" from 2001, 07’s "Black Rain"), recycling old stale Zakk riffs. See, that has been the problem with Ozzy’s music for many years, lame ass riffs. Zakk’s contributions to "No Rest For The Wicked" and "No More Tears" were fresh giving character to the music, and his style was different from Randy Roads and Jake E Lee (both extraordinary players who Oz can thank for many timeless riffs and songs), and the records Zakk, Randy, and Jake played on are stand alone pieces of work.

"Scream", on the other hand, has once again hit a pitfall, sending Ozzy further into a creative slump. And I don’t feel for Ozzy, its Gus who my heart goes out to, with this being his debut performance haters will surely be out in droves. Hopefully, fans/critics will be intelligent about "Scream" and blame the man himself. Hell, this ain’t even Gus’ rig (just listen to Firewind and you will learn aside from being a great songwriter, he is not a Zakk clone).

‘Let It Die’ is misleading, opening with a pounding drum and short guitar lead, then followed by this dark plodding beat and guitar pattern. Vocal effects during the verses is obviously trying to be relevant with hard rock of today, and feels no different than what has been done on the "Black Rain" album. The solo section somewhat saves the tune with its rhythm change and leads. First single ‘Let Me Hear You Scream’ is cookie cutter stuff ala ‘I Don’t Wanna Stop’. ‘Soul Sucker’ is another Sabbath plodder, boring, although…Gus does get to show what he’s made of in the solo. ‘Life Won’t Wait’ is a better up beat rocker. ‘Diggin’ Me Down’ hits Sabbath hard but is no better than the rest of the tracks.

My question is…where are the great catchy riffs to open and carry the songs (see "Diary", "Ultimate Sin", or "No Rest For The Wicked" albums)?

What is it with these Kornesque effects and modern beats to ‘Crucify’?, really it is of no surprise to me given Ozzy’s recent track record. ‘Fearless’…you call that a riff??? The song improves at times hitting a better groove, and Gus gets to mark his territory a bit. ‘I Want It More’ I enjoy the most and is probably one of the strongest Ozzy arrangements in years, using a strong beat including reflective guitar leads, keys, and where Gus gets to be an individual playing outside of Zak’s shadow.

Overall, better than anything Ozzy has released in many years but it in no way lives up to his past ("Diary Of A Madman", "Ultimate Sin", "No More Tears"). I hope Gus lasts till the next album (if there is one) and really gets to be himself.

In all reality, it’s about time people start paying attention to the future of Heavy Metal (especially you Americans) and listening to Gus’ band Firewind who have a new album coming out later this year. In the mean time check out "Allegiance" and "The Premonition". And if you must insist upon listening to the godfathers stick to Maiden and Priest.

 
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