Black Sabbath: Vol 4

Vol. 4 marks a turning point in Black Sabbath’s career, a bold step forward from their doom-laden roots into more experimental and dynamic territory. Released in 1972, this album shows the band exploring new sounds and textures while still delivering the crushing riffs and dark atmosphere that made them icons of heavy metal.

From the opening track, “Wheels of Confusion,” it’s clear the band is stretching their wings. Tony Iommi’s guitar work is as fiery as ever, but the song’s sprawling structure and unexpected shifts show a growing ambition. This ambition carries through the album, from the haunting, piano-driven interlude “Changes” to the psychedelic haze of “Laguna Sunrise.”

The real standout, though, is “Snowblind,” a powerhouse track with riffs so heavy they feel like seismic tremors. It’s an ode to excess, with Ozzy Osbourne’s vocals drenched in both power and vulnerability, giving listeners a glimpse into the band’s lifestyle at the time. The cocaine-fueled chaos of the era looms over the entire record, but instead of detracting from the music, it adds a raw, unfiltered edge.

The production, while not as polished as modern records, feels intimate, like you’re sitting in the studio with the band. However, this rawness works in the album’s favor, emphasizing the grit and emotion in every note.

Critics might argue Vol. 4 lacks the sheer doom of earlier albums like Paranoid or Master of Reality, but what it loses in heaviness, it makes up for in versatility and creativity. Tracks like “Supernaut” showcase Bill Ward’s thunderous drumming and Geezer Butler’s locked-in basslines, proving the band’s rhythm section is just as vital as the riffs.

In many ways, Vol. 4 is an underrated gem in Black Sabbath’s catalog. It’s the sound of a band unafraid to take risks, pushing the boundaries of what heavy metal could be. While not every experiment lands perfectly, the highs far outweigh the lows, making this a must-listen for both Sabbath fans and anyone curious about the origins of metal’s evolution.

Rating: 9/10 – An essential chapter in heavy metal history.

REVIEW BY RUE MORGUE RECORDS