DOWN TO EARTH

The Ozzman Cometh, and it seems as though this latest jaunt across the country on Ozzfest 2001 with his old BLACK SABBATH cronies has had an effect on his songwriting. Down To Earth in addition to featuring the return of Zakk Wylde on lead guitar, includes some of the most chunky, Sabbath-influenced hooks to come from Mr. Osbourne in 20 years.

The first single, "Gets Me Through", is an homage to his fans, who he obviously can't live without the appreciation of, and whom he loves pandering to year after year. The main riff is slow, low-E-chugging, and the tempo is slower than most of his No More Tears and Ozzmosis tunes. "Facing Hell", the second track on the disc, features some computerized beeps in the chorus that suggest that Ozzy can mobilize into the 21st century easily if not a little slower than he used to. There are a few more ballads on this disc than I'd like, but I guess Oz is an old fart and interested in showing us a softer side of himself. However, the whining about global warming in "Dreamer" and the apology to his kids in "You Know" just seems a little out of place for the guy who's most known for biting the head off a dove and pissing on the Alamo. "That I never had" showcases some of Zakk's amazing riff work. It's really great to hear him alongside Ozzy again, and I hope he stays.

If you're even the slightest Ozzy fan, you'll appreciate this latest offering. If nothing else, you'll respect this sonofabitch for still being able to rock out in his 50's.