Some years ago, my Best Metal Buddy Scott Coverdale gifted me this fabulous Black Sabbath Born Again tour book. I thank him to this day!
The Black Sabbath Born Again World Tour began on August 7, 1983 and ended on March 4, 1984. The new lead vocalist for this Black Sabbath era was Ian Gillan of Deep Purple fame. Ian Gillan sang on the 1983 Born Again album as well. Of course, TonyIommi and Geezer Butler are on this tour. Geoff Nichols played keyboards on this tour.
Above: back cover
The one other band lineup change for this tour was the addition of Bev Bevan as drummer; famous for his tenure with Electric Light Orchestra. However, Bill Ward was the drummer on the Born Again album.
Above: inside back cover
Back in 1983, I was a junior in high school and very much a fan of both the Ozzy Osbourne and Ronnie James Dio eras of Black Sabbath. I did not have the opportunity to see Black Sabbath on this tour and I would’ve loved to. Can’t see them all; yet it still sucks to miss that tour. Born Again has always been a favorite metal album of mine my entire life. I believe it’s a classic.
Above: tour credits page
I just really dig the dark and sinister vibes from the songs and it’s heavy as hell! My top 3 songs from Born Again are “Trashed,” Disturbing The Priest” and “Zero The Hero.” Yes, I’ve loved the album artwork since I first saw it. It’s f’n Metal, after all.
I didn’t show band photos from this tour book due to any potential copyright issues. Thank you for checking out my tour book and visiting! Stay safe and Metal be thy name. – Stone
I bought this Ronnie James Dio Funko Pop! Rocks a couple of weeks ago, at a store called Petez Popz located in Kettering, Ohio. This store is amazing if you are a collector of Funko collectibles. They also have a fine website & online store here: https://petezpopz.com/
My love for Ronnie James Dio has been well documented, over the years here on Metal Odyssey. I’m shocked that it took me this long to finally get a Pop! Rocks of RJD! There are other variations of a RJD Funko out there, I’m certain; for that’s pretty much the standard with how Funko produces any of their characters from across the pop culture universe.
Above: back cover of box
My first introduction to the vocals of RJD were with his first two albums with Black Sabbath: Heaven And Hell (1980), Mob Rules (1981). I quickly learned of his albums with Rainbow and I was forever hooked by RJD. This was back in the days when I thought having my own rotary phone in my bedroom was a privilege. Rotary phone, imagine that.
I later gobbled up all of RJD’s solo albums on vinyl, then to the CD versions. My biggest thrill was being able to see the iconic RJD and his band DIO in concert, during a stop on his Dream Evil tour in New Haven, Connecticut. Megadeth and Savatage were the opening bands for DIO on that magical evening of December 29th, 1987. Incredible. That old New Haven coliseum where I saw DIO perform was torn down back in January of 2007; yet the Metal memories remain!
Thank you for reading this and visiting Metal Odyssey. Stay safe out there and Metal be thy name! – Stone
In an explosive return to the music scene, the iconic yet notorious band COLD SLITHER has released their first single “Cold Slither,” off their much-anticipated album. This project marks a groundbreaking fusion of real-world music and fictional narrative, bringing to life the villainous charm of the Cobra organization from the classic 1980sG.I. JOEseries.
In a dynamic collaboration, Hasbro and Reigning PhoenixMusic have teamed up to release “Cold Slither.” This partnership breathes new life into COLD SLITHER, a band once crafted as part of a nefarious plot and now reborn with a sound that mixes nostalgia with cutting-edge rock prowess. Helmed by the mysterious Zartan and his band of Dreadnoks, (Torch, Ripper, and Buzzer), the single reintroduces their heavy metal ferocity combined with a sinister, anarchist energy that upends the conventional music scene.
Bringing COLD SLITHER to life through our partnership with RPM has been an absolute dream come true! As a child watching this fictional band on my TV screen, I never imagined I’d one day help transform them from animated rockstars into a tangible, sonic reality. From the meticulously crafted figures you can hold in your hand to the face-melting album we’ve created, G.I. JOE fans worldwide are about to experience something truly revolutionary this summer. This project bridges nostalgia with innovation in ways that will leave the community speechless—prepare for a musical assault that would make Cobra Commander proud!”Shares Ben”BMac” MacCrae — Associate Brand Manager, Global Brand Development & Marketing at Hasbro.
Reigning Phoenix Music General Manager and Co-founder Gerardo Martinez comments: “It is a dream come true to be able to work on this amazing collaboration with my favorite, and one that happens to be one of the most iconic brands in the world: G.I.JOE! It is also a pleasure to work on this amazing project alongside some of my friends from Hasbro and be able to bring Cold Slither into reality in the most Heavy Metal way! Many of us have waited 40 years for this to happen but the wait is finally over. And a special thanks to Michael Charles Hill for writing the original COLD SLITHER episode back in 1985.”
“It’s programs like these that make Hasbro’s goal of creating Magic Moments truly come to life! What started out as a cult-classic episode from the 1985 series G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero has culminated into a fan program for the ages – inclusive of toys, comics, and of course, music. It could not have been made possible without amazing licensees like Reigning Phoenix Music who put their passion, expertise, and fandom into everything they create. We’re extremely excited for everyone to rock out to this single and we plan to reveal even more as we move closer to San Diego Comic Con. So, as the single echos, we hope… “you’ll be joining us soon!””says Alyse D’Antuono — Hasbro’s VP of Global Franchise Strategy & Management for Action Brands.
“Cold Slither” features bone-crushing riffs and an anthemic chorus, perfectly capturing the rebellious spirit of the ’80s and leading the charge in COLD SLITHER‘s resurgence. The infamous track, which initially captivated audiences as part of Cobra’s mind-control plot, is now reimagined with a compelling melody and legendary backstory, showcased in a newly released lyric video, animated by the legendary Costin Chioreanu.
Cold Slither burst onto the scene with their now classic single, “Cold Slither”, setting the stage for an even darker campaign with their upcoming album, “Cold Slither.” Helmed by the enigmatic Zartan and supported by his ruthless Dreadnoks—Torch, Ripper, and Buzzer—this band blends heavy metal ferocity with a sinister, anarchistic energy that upends the conventional music scene. Their signature sound unleashes a torrent of guttural guitars, boisterous bass, venomous vocals, and thunderous percussion, casting shadows across the musical landscape.
Each concert is a spectacle of chaos and brute force, with Cold Slither captivating hearts and demolishing instruments worldwide. Their music transcends generational divides, championing a dark new world order with each pulse-pounding beat. This band doesn’t just chase gold and platinum records; they aim to capture the minds and souls of their audience.
Conceived by Cobra Commander, Zartan and his Dreadnoks were transformed into Cold Slither, a heavy metal behemoth designed to captivate and influence America’s youth. With their cunning lyrics and compelling stage presence, they harness their music as a powerful tool for mass destruction and control.
Anticipation for their forthcoming album “Cold Slither” is building, with fans eager for a new chapter of anthems that promise not just to challenge but to change the industry. Prepare for an auditory onslaught that will resonate long after the lights fade. With Cold Slither, the revolution is not just televised, it’s an all-encompassing, reverberating force. Brace yourself to join their ranks and be changed. Their music doesn’t merely entertain; it indoctrinates.
Aug. 28 – Louisville, KY @ Iroquois Amphitheater Aug. 30 – Eau Claire, WI @ The Sonnentag Sep. 01 – Paw Paw, MI @ Warner Vineyards Sep. 04 – Royal Oak, MI @ Royal Oak Music Theatre Sep. 05 – Cleveland, OH @ Agora Theater & Ballroom Sep. 06 – Rockford, IL @ Coronado Performing Arts Center Sep. 12 – Airway Heights, WA @ Spokane Live Sep. 13 – Idaho Falls, ID @ Mountain America Center Sep. 14 – Boise, ID @ Morrison Center Sep. 17 – Las Vegas, NV @ The Theater at Virgin Hotels Sep. 19 – Tucson, AZ @ Rialto Theatre Sep. 20 – Phoenix, AZ @ Celebrity Theatre Sep. 21 – Albuquerque, NM @ Revel Entertainment Center Oct. 03 – Carteret, NJ @ Carteret PAC Oct. 04 – Stroudsburg, PA @ Sherman Theater
Finland’s hard rocking Wishing Well have released new music for the first time after their Sin And Shame album, that came out in March 2023. “Boys Will Be Boys” is a simple good mood rocker, made seriously tongue-in-cheek and in good spirit to celebrate rock music and pure joy and camaraderie of playing in a band. This positive and cheerful song is a rare release from the band, who usually write more serious and complex songs. The song is released together with a music video, recorded at Magnusborg Studios in Porvoo, filmed and edited by Jussi Koskinen.
“Boys is an old song that goes way back but we wanted to release something in between albums and this song is perfect for that. First we thought it’s too simple and silly but when we worked on it and it took off like a rocket to the moon we decided to give it a go. Somebody then came up with the idea of asking previous Wishing Well vocalists to sing the gang vocals and when they agreed and even Graham Bonnet promised to join we knew it’ll work out great. We decided to shoot the video while in the studio and we had a great time. We’re pleased with the result and the song is also good fun to play live”, says Anssi Korkiakoski, guitar player and songwriter of the band.
“Things should not always be too serious, at the end of the day it’s all about doing what you love, together with your friends. We’re all old metalheads and hard rockers, we share the same thoughts and memories about music, from early years to ‘80s metal and beyond. It’s great that we can do our thing together and share it with each other and our audience as well. This song is a homage to all of us childlike rockers, music lovers and band musicians. There are many of us, naturally lots of girls and women too, despite the song title”, says Korkiakoski.
Composition & Lyrics by Anssi Korkiakoski
The song is released under Wishing Well & The Wheelers And Dealers, since the choir with its old school veterans plays an important role in the song.
At the moment the band is working on their fifth album, due to be released in the spring of 2026. Wishing Well will perform live at On The Rocks Club in Helsinki on the 27th of March. For more news updates visit their social media channels.
Wishing Well are: Pepe Tamminen – vocals Arto Teppo – Hammond-organ Matti Kotkavuori – bass Juha Kivikanto – drums Anssi Korkiakoski – guitar
Wheelers And Dealers choir are: Rick Becker Graham Bonnet Rafael Castillo Peter James Goodman
Legendary rocker Jizzy Pearl is back! The unmistakable voice behind Blackout in the Red Room returns with Punk Rock Fiesta! on March 1, 2025, via Kenyon Records. This latest album from Jizzy Pearl’s Love/Hate is a raw, unfiltered blast of fiery rock ‘n’ roll energy, packed with high-voltage riffs, anthemic choruses, and relentless attitude.
A No-Holds-Barred Rock & Roll Experience
From the Sunset Strip to stages worldwide, Jizzy Pearl has made his mark on rock history, selling over 600,000 albums and sharing the stage with AC/DC, Ozzy Osbourne, Skid Row, and Dio. He currently sings for Quiet Riot and has recorded and toured with RATT and L.A. Guns. Now, he delivers a powerhouse collection of songs, capturing the fire and energy of no-frills rock ‘n’ roll and it’s Punk Rock Fiesta!
High-Energy Rock with a Fierce Edge
Punk Rock Fiesta! is a high-octane ride that leans into the rebellious spirit of classic, streetwise rock. Featuring blistering guitar solos and Jizzy’s signature vocals, equal parts grit and soul, the album is a relentless sonic assault.
The lead single, “You’re Gonna Burn,” is already creating a buzz, showcasing former Love/Hate member Darren Housholders’ electrifying guitar work alongside Jizzy’s commanding presence.
“Rock ‘n’ roll should be dangerous, unpredictable, and make you feel something,”saysJizzy Pearl. “We wanted to bring back that energy that made music exciting in the first place. This record is screaming, loud, and full of old-school rock ‘n’ roll soul!”
A Legacy of Rock, A New Chapter Begins
Since 1990, with Love/Hate’s debut Blackout in the Red Room, (namedBest Record of the Year by Kerrang! and Metal Hammer) Jizzy Pearl has remained a respected force in rock. Whether commanding the stage with multi-platinum bands or pushing his own creative limits, he continues to evolve while staying true to his hard rock roots.
PUNK ROCK FIESTA!
You’re Gonna Burn
Eye For An Eye
The Wrath Of Love
Over The Edge
Didya Think You Could Fall In Love?
Can’t Be Wrong
I’ll Be Your Shadow
Time To Take Your Pill
With his seventh solo album, Jizzy Pearl is ready to shake up the rock world once again.
Get ready for Punk Rock Fiesta!, the unfiltered, unapologetic sound of real rock ‘n’ roll. Out March 1, 2025!
LINE-UP: Jizzy Pearl: Vocals, Guitars, Bass Guitar Darren Housholder: Guitars Christian Kimmett: Bass Guitar Dave Moreno: Drums
CREDITS: All Songs Words and Music by Jizzy Pearl Produced by Jizzy Pearl Executive Producer: Brian Kenyon Mixed by Andy Haller & Jizzy Pearl at Android Audio, AZ Mastered by Maor Appelbaum Guitars recorded by Tim Hofstetter Drums recorded by Dave Moreno at Doom Room Studios, CA Additional guitars: Andy Haller Cover Art: Jordan Hursch Layout and design: Michael Wohlberg Album photos Christina Pearl
UK DATES: March 5th Edinburgh at Bannermans March 6th Newcastle at Trillians March 7th Buckley at Tivoli March 8th Wolverhampton at K.K.’s Steelmill Mark 9th Blackpool at Waterloo March 12th Bradford at Nightrain March 13th Camden at Underworld March14th Yarmouth at Hard Rock Hell March 15th Crumlin at Patriot March 16th Swansea at Hanger 18
US DATES: July 4th West Hollywood, CA at The Whisky July 5th Las Vegas, NV at Vamp’d
Progressive metal supergroup ICEFISH is thrilled to announce the release of their highly anticipated cover of Rush’s classic track “Animate”. Recorded live in Chorzów, Poland, this stunning performance honors the legacy of Rush while delivering ICEFISH’s signature technical brilliance and modern progressive edge.
Featuring a lineup of world-class musicians, Andrea Casali (vocals and bass), Alex Argento (Virgil Donati, Corrado Rustici, Zucchero) – keyboards, Marco Sfogli (James LaBrie, PFM) – guitar, Virgil Donati (Planet X, Asia, Steve Vai) – drums, ICEFISH bring unparalleled precision and passion to this iconic song. Their rendition seamlessly blends the spirit of the original with their unique creative style, offering fans a fresh perspective on one of Rush’s most beloved tracks.
The live video, captured during the band’s powerful performance in Chorzów, Poland, premiered on YouTube, providing fans with a visual experience that showcases ICEFISH’s electrifying stage presence and exceptional musicianship.
Icons of Metal come together to celebrate Ozzy Osbourne’s Final Performance July 5th at Villa Park
All Profits From The Show Will Be SHARED EQUALLY BETWEEN Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Acorn Children’s Hospice
The original Black Sabbath – Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward – will play for the first time in 20 years. The band will take to the stage to headline BACK TO THE BEGINNING on July 5th at Villa Park.
The all-star event will celebrate the true creators of heavy metal and will see Ozzy Osbourne play his own short set before joining with Black Sabbath for his final bow.
“It’s my time to go Back to the Beginning… time for me to give back to the place where I was born,” Ozzy Osbourne said. “How blessed am I to do it with the help of people whom I love. Birmingham is the true home of metal. Birmingham Forever.”
Formed in Birmingham in 1968 and going on to become one of most successful metal bands of all time, Black Sabbath have sold over 75 million albums worldwide across their legendary career. Setting the blueprint for the many routes heavy metal took, Black Sabbath’s influence and importance is as vital today as it was in the early 1970s.
Music Director Tom Morello said: “This will be the greatest heavy metal show ever.”
BACK TO THE BEGINNING will feature sets from Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, Gojira, Halestorm, Alice in Chains, Lamb of God, Anthrax and Mastodon
The all-day event will also feature a supergroup of musicians. Artists announced so far include Billy Corgan (The Smashing Pumpkins), David Draiman (Disturbed), Duff McKagan & Slash (Guns ‘n Roses), Frank Bello (Anthrax), Fred Durst (Limp Bizkit), Jake E Lee, Jonathan Davis (Korn), KK Downing, Lzzy Hale (Halestorm), Mike Bordin (Faith No More), Rudy Sarzo, Sammy Hagar, Scott Ian (Anthrax), Sleep Token ii (Sleep Token), Papa V Perpetua (Ghost), Tom Morello (Rage Against The Machine), Wolfgang Van Halen and Zakk Wylde.
More names will be announced shortly.
Tickets go on sale at 10am GMT on Friday 14th February 2025 at LiveNation.co.uk.
All profits will go to the following charities: Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Acorns Children’s Hospice, a Children’s Hospice supported by Aston Villa.
Stephen Pearcy RATT founder lead singer; “Never say never, right? There was no question when the idea was brought up doing something with Warren again. It wasn’t even a thought, it’s time, let’s do this. “Pearcy / De Martini” back in the cellar, let’s go! Let’s break the ice, with the utmost respect and do what we do best together, play RATT music. It’ll seem like yesterday instead of years when we’re back onstage regardless. It’s time to RATT n’ Roll again, even if it’s a double shot. It’s about the bands legacy. I know what we can do as a team, and that’s writing great songs and Kickin’ some ass onstage. It’s only appropriate that the first show in years is at M3 2025. It’s a great event. You’re getting ALL the RATT hits and more, let the “Invasion Celebration” begin. Never say never, right”? M3 Rock Festival officialstephenpearcy.com #sepwarnd #2025Ready #80s #rattnroll
Above: Best of John Sykes -album cover – (2000) – Mercury Records Japan
Heavy Metal and Hard Rock guitarist, vocalist and songwriting legend John Sykes passed away on Monday, January 20th at the age of 65. Metal Odyssey expresses condolences to the family, friends. fans and all past bandmates of John Sykes; God Bless him and may he rest in peace.
John Sykes’ illustrious career included being a former member of 1980’s bands Tygers of Pan Tang, Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake and his very own Blue Murder, along with being a successful solo artist. John Sykes also toured Europe in 1983 with the late Phil Lynotts’ solo (live only) band named The Three Musketeers.
Above: Thin Lizzy – Thunder and Lightning – album cover – (1983) – Warner Bros.
Above: Whitesnake S/T – album cover – (1987) – Geffen Records
Above: BLUE MURDER S/T – album cover – (1989) – Geffen Records
John Sykes was born in Reading, England on July 29, 1959.
Check it out! That’s my Ozzy Osbourne Funko POP! ROCKS mint-in-box! It’s also a Funko.com exclusive, whatever that means. Sounds important though. The date on the lower back cover is 2023. Thanks for visiting and looking, I appreciate it!
Back cover gives date at bottom, in teeny tiny type. Above: side panel
I picked up this 8-track cartridge of Black Sabbath ‘Paranoid’ (top photo) for 25 cents at a thrift store a week or so ago. The tape is intact. I love this band and embrace the nostalgia of such an old-time music medium. The ‘Paranoid’ album was released back in 1970. Dig it, my brothers and sisters. 👊🏻
4/05 – The Event at Graton Resort & Casino – Rohnert Park, CA 4/25 – Ruth Eckerd Hall – Clearwater, FL 4/26 – Fillmore – Miami Beach, FL 4/28 – The Moon – Tallahassee, FL 4/29 – Florida Theater – Jacksonville, FL 4/30 – Hard Rock Live – Orlando, FL 5/03 – Beaver Dam Amphitheater – Beaver Dam, KY 5/05 – Count Basie – Red Bank, NJ 5/06 – Wellmont – Montclair, NJ 5/08 – Wind Creek Casino – Bethlehem, PA 5/09 – Paramount – Huntington, NY 5/15 – Fallsview Casino – Niagara Falls, ON 5/20 – Brown County Music Center – Nashville, IN 5/22 – House of Blues – Dallas, TX 5/23 – Tobin Center – San Antonio, TX 5/24 – House of Blues – Houston, TX
Dave Murray was born in England back on December 23rd of 1956. Today, Dave turns 68 years old. Happy birthday Dave! As a lifelong guitarist for Iron Maiden, spanning five decades, Dave Murray has played on every studio and live album of theirs. A tried and true Metal legend is Dave Murray!
Graham Bonnet was born in England back on December 23rd of 1947. Today, Graham celebrates his 77th birthday. Happy birthday, Graham! An iconic Rock, Hard Rock and Heavy Metal vocalist, going back to the late 1960’s, for such powerhouse bands as Rainbow, Michael Schenker Group, Alcatrazz, and Impellitteri. Graham Bonnet has also commanded a brilliant solo music career.
In support of our new record “Leopard Skin” we will be touring heavily next year. Here is the first leg of the tour dates. Album will be released in the beginning of April . Come and join us on The Lucky MF’r Tour!!!
If you’re a band or musician and would like your music reviewed or be interviewed by Stone, please click the link under the “ALBUM REVIEWS ARCHIVES” section below!
Metal Odyssey's Rock, Hard Rock and Heavy Metal Hall of Fame! These Are The Rock And METAL Legends Wrongfully Ignored By "The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame"
Metal Odyssey > Heavy Metal Music Blog 
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