What would heavy metal sound like today if there never would have been Black Sabbath? Nobody has an answer for that question, but one thing is undeniable - Tony Iommi's guitar playing has influenced heavy music to a great extent. Not to get sidetracked, the new Iommi album features Glenn Hughes on vocals (as did the previous "The 1996 DEP Sessions" release).

The songs on Fused are unrelentingly dark and heavy sounding. However, also few gentle songs have been included. Overall, the material is rather solid and well-balanced, although few moments on this album are definitely above the rest. The biggest difference on this album compared to Iommi's self-titled debut album is Hughes' vocals, which are a welcome change.

Fused was recorded at Tone Hall, Warwickshire; Rhythm Studios, Bidford on Avon and Monnow Valley Studios, Monmouth. Mixing, on the other hand, took place at Studio 1, Sanctuary Townhouse Studios while mastering of the album was handled at 360 Mastering, London. The outcome is vibrant record with a powerful yet atmospheric soundscape. Regardless, at times the guitar tone could have been a bit more cleaner (Iommi tends to use a bit too much distortion).

As a whole, Fused is definitely Iommi's best solo effort to date. In case, you have listened to Iommi before, be sure not to miss this release.

Visit Iommi's Website

Visit Hughes' Website


- MAGE (August 21st, 2005)

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LINE-UP:
Iommi, Tony: Guitar Hughes, Glenn: Vocals & Bass Aronoff, Kenny: Drums Marlette, Bob: Keyboards & Bass
Producer:	Marlette, Bob & Iommi, Tony
Mixing by:	Marlette, Bob
Mastering by:	Beetham, Dick

	TRACKLIST:
	01. Dopamine 02. Wasted Again 03. Saviour of the Real 04. Resolution Song 05. Grace 06. Deep Inside a Shell 07. What You're Living for 08. Face Your Fear 09. The Spell 10. I Go Insane Length: 49:32