Seventh Star (Rsd 2026)
[ Vinyl ]

Black Sabbath’s Seventh Star (Rsd 2026) reissue is like a blast from the past, but not necessarily in a good way. Released as part of Record Store Day 2026, this album is a mixed bag of rock, blues, and a touch of glam that leaves you scratching your head. From the opening track, "In For The Kill," it's clear that this album is a departure from Black Sabbath’s signature heavy sound. Instead, we get a mishmash of styles that never quite gel together. Tony Iommi’s iconic guitar solos are present, but they seem lost in a sea of synthesizers and cheesy 80s production. Vocalist Glenn Hughes does his best to channel his inner Ozzy Osbourne, but falls short of capturing the magic that made Sabbath's earlier albums so legendary. The lyrics are forgettable at best, with cliched references to love and heartbreak that feel out of place on a Black Sabbath record. That being said, there are a few bright spots on Seventh Star. The standout track, "No Stranger To Love," showcases Hughes’ powerful vocals and Iommi’s still razor-sharp guitar work. It’s a reminder of the talent that lies within the band, even if it gets buried under layers of unnecessary production. Overall, Seventh Star is a curious addition to Black Sabbath’s discography. While it may not reach the heights of their earlier classics, it offers a glimpse into a unique chapter of the band's history. And for that, it’s worth a spin, if only for the sheer audacity of it all.