Black Sabbath – Born Again (1983): Album Review, Tracklist & Fun Facts
Released in August 1983, Born Again is the eleventh studio album by Black Sabbath and the only studio album to feature Ian Gillan of Deep Purple on vocals. The album represents a radical departure from the Dio era, both musically and theatrically, delivering a darker, rawer, and at times chaotic heavy metal sound.
Although initially divisive, Born Again has since gained a cult following for its unique energy, monstrous riffs, and Gillan’s wild vocal performances.
Album Overview
Born Again was recorded during a period of personal tension, substance abuse, and creative experimentation. The album fuses classic Black Sabbath doom elements with Gillan’s high-pitched, screeching vocals and unusually aggressive arrangements.
Tony Iommi’s riffs are heavy and sinister, Geezer Butler’s bass lines are melodic yet menacing, and Bill Ward’s drumming provides thunderous and erratic support. The result is an album that feels both chaotic and strangely cohesive, perfectly capturing the album’s apocalyptic mood.
Tracklist – Black Sabbath: Born Again (1983)
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Trashed
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Stonehenge
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Disturbing the Priest
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The Dark
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Zero the Hero
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Hot Line
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Digital Bitch
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Born Again
Album Review
The album opens with “Trashed,” a violent, riff-heavy track that sets a raw, confrontational tone. “Stonehenge” and “Disturbing the Priest” add dark humor and theatricality, highlighting Gillan’s eccentric vocal style.
“Zero the Hero” is a fan favorite, featuring crushing riffs and one of Iommi’s heaviest guitar tones. The title track “Born Again” closes the album with an apocalyptic feel, combining sinister lyrics with Gillan’s intense performance.
While controversial upon release, Born Again showcases a band willing to push boundaries, blending Sabbath’s signature heaviness with Gillan’s unpredictable, over-the-top energy.
Fun Facts, Trivia & Did You Know
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• Fun Fact: The album cover, created by Stefano Giovannoni, depicts a grotesque, zombie-like figure and is considered one of rock’s most notorious album covers.
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• Trivia: Ian Gillan’s vocal style on the album is extremely high-pitched, adding a chaotic and theatrical flair to the music.
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• Did You Know? Zero the Hero was inspired by Geezer Butler’s personal struggles and societal disillusionment.
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• Fun Fact: The recording sessions were plagued by tensions and excessive partying, which influenced the album’s raw sound.
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• Did You Know? Despite initial mixed reviews, Born Again is now considered a cult classic and an adventurous entry in Sabbath’s discography.
Cultural Legacy
Born Again represents a unique, experimental chapter in Black Sabbath’s history, bridging classic heavy metal with the theatricality of early 1980s hard rock. Its unconventional vocals, sinister riffs, and bizarre themes make it a polarizing but essential listen for fans and collectors.
The album’s reputation has grown over time, influencing doom, thrash, and experimental metal acts.
Black Sabbath Full Discography
