OZZY Osbourne - "Scream"

By Thomas S. Orwat, Jr.

Rock legend OZZY Osbourne has just released "Scream" his 10^thstudio release and first CD in three years.  This 11 track, well written, lyrically profound, hard driving release was produced by OZZY and Kevin Churkois. While OZZY's performance is solid, the most noteworthy aspect of this release is the brilliant guitar work courtesy of new guitarist Gus G. This 29 year old Greek virtuoso guitarist and member of the power metal band Firewind was hired in place of longtime guitarist Zakk Wylde. Although Wylde is a true guitar star, OZZY's music was starting to sound a little too much like ZAKK's solo band Black Label Society, so in that aspect, this is a welcomed and refreshing change.

Gus has an unique axe shredder elegance that incorporates styles of previous OZZY guitarist Randy Rhodes as well as Zakk Wylde. The haunting arpeggio minor chord intro to "Diggin Me Down" is very reminiscent of the 1981 track "Diary of a Madman." In addition,the roar of Gus' guitar intro to "Fearless" is brutally fierce. And the interplay contrast between Gus' ferocious guitar lead break and keyboardist Adam Wakeman elegant classicial piano on "I Want More" is simply breathtaking.

Rounding out the OZZY band for this release is former Rob Zombie bassist and drummer Blasko and Tommy Clufetos respectively.

 OZZY ends this Cd with a tribute to his faithful fans with the short track "I Love You All." On this closing track he eloquently sings "We all must end together now, or one by one we fall, for all these years you all stood by me, God bless, I love you all." A fitting way to end what may very well be his swan song recording. 

For more info on this release and OZZfest tour dates check out www.ozzy.com