Album Review: Zakk Sabbath - ‘Doomed Forever Forever Doomed’

Zakk Sabbath have returned with a magnificent double album, Doomed Forever Forever Doomed. This monumental achievement consists of the band’s renditions of Black Sabbath’s historic sophomore and third albums, Paranoid (1970) and Master of Reality (1971). Doomed Forever Forever Doomed is an absolute must-hear for any metal or rock fan. This offering more than does justice to the excellence of Black Sabbath. If your love for Birmingham’s finest has strayed at all over the years, this triumph will restore your appreciation for the band that shaped the metal world.

Those who follow Zakk Sabbath know that the term “tribute band” is hardly an accurate descriptor insofar as this outfit truly embodies the spirit of the material they conquer. Frontman Zakk Wylde is not only one of the greatest metal guitarists of all time, but his history is, of course, entwined with that of Ozzy Osbourne. Wylde was just 19 years old when he met Osbourne. Meanwhile, the cat-loving Blasko of Rob Zombie has acted as another one of the most loyal accomplices of the “Prince of Darkness.” Blasko, by the way, can certainly be referred to as one of the coolest bassists and managers in the industry. The highly accomplished drummer Joey “C” Castillo, who has formerly played with the likes of Danzig and Queens of the Stone Age, is the perfect heavyweight to complete the trio. Zakk Sabbath’s chemistry is tight, and their veteran confidence and skill are simply off the charts. Their momentum remains remarkable throughout Doomed Forever Forever Doomed. Watching the members of Zakk Sabbath perform live is an incredibly bewitching experience. Fortunately, Doomed Forever Forever Doomed captures all the fun of a concert.

Although the songs are, again, true to the essence of the originals, the team adds their own individualistic touches. In other words, the tracks are different enough from the Black Sabbath versions to lend a gloriously novel impression. “Fairies Wear Boots” is one number that stands out as having a modified flavor from what we hear on Paranoid. The youthful new sound of “After Forever,” for example, enlivens the composition without making it seem too clean. As refreshing as Doomed Forever Forever Doomed proves, it feels like a vintage record in the best way possible. This organic album isn’t too polished and certainly does not suffer from the ills associated with modern metal. The highly professional production allows us to properly appreciate the work of each musician without taking away any of the music’s character. The mix is just right. The production owes to none other than Zakk Wylde helped. Meanwhile, engineering was handled by Jay Ruston and Adam Fuller.

Because Doomed Forever Forever Doomed takes on two masterpieces, it serves up one classic track after the next. Zakk Sabbath’s “War Pigs” immediately seduces us with its groovy ear candy intro. The sirens have more of a sexy allure than on the 1970 recording, letting us know that we’re in for a titillating ride. Right away, we notice how effectively Zakk Sabbath summons stoner vibes. “Paranoid” awakens all of the special excitement that this fan favorite always should. The group’s sublime rendition of “Planet Caravan” is absolutely breathtaking — impregnated with a complex bittersweet mix of melancholy and a beauty that overpowers. Zakk Sabbath reminds audiences that “Planet Caravan” is probably one of the best rock songs ever written. “Iron Man” provides a nice contrast by bringing back the heaviness. This cover likewise exceeds expectations. It’s actually easy to forget that you aren’t listening to Black Sabbath during numbers like this. Whether we are speaking of “Hand of Doom,” “Sweet Leaf,” or “Children of the Grave,” all moments hit their mark.

Listeners will, of course, notice that Wylde often sounds eerily like Osbourne. Even his cadence is perfect. Yet, he does not come across in the least like an imitator but exactly what he is — again, someone who has not only marched in Ozzy’s service for years but has done wonders for his artistic output. Obviously, Wylde’s full and commanding voice is much deeper than Osbourne’s. When they arise, Wylde’s solos are always dazzling. It is impossible not to listen to his guitar work with a great sense of awe. Of course, “Rat Salad” provides a nice opportunity to enjoy Castillo’s drumming prowess. Blasko’s artistry forces us to admire Geezer Butler’s gorgeous basslines. Zakk Sabbath permits the genius of the composing artists behind Black Sabbath to truly shine. The band calls attention to the timelessness of the music. The color palette of Doomed Forever Forever Doomed testifies to Sabbath’s versatility. Tracks like the lovely instrumental “Orchid” and the melancholic “Solitude,” which happens to feature a very different vocal delivery than the original, highlight the range of weapons that Black Sabbath packed in their arsenal.

Yes, Zakk Sabbath’s infectious energy will grip you from beginning to end. If you are a Black Sabbath fan, there is nothing more that you could desire from Doomed Forever Forever Doomed. It just might be one of the best cover albums ever made.