Rating – 9/10
There is no band more influential to the genre of metal than Black Sabbath. Their self-titled record in 1970 set the standard for what countless other metal musicians would build upon for years to come. Black Sabbath’s sophomore record, ‘Paranoid’, is truly what propelled the band to its iconic status. Featuring a powerhouse of thunderous drums, crunchy bass and distorted guitars, ‘Paranoid’ set itself apart from the rest of music at the time, and in the process gave Black Sabbath several songs that are recognizable to this day.
‘Paranoid’ contains a wide range of musical styles, from the beginnings of doom metal to the relaxed sounds of psychedelic rock. This range can be seen clearly in the first three songs of the album. ‘Paranoid’ opens with an eight minute track criticizing the then-current Vietnam War called “War Pigs”. As the original title for the album, “War Pigs” opens strong with Ozzy Osbourne’s unique vocals playing opposite Tony Iommi’s and Geezer Butler’s guitar and bass riffs respectively. Immediately following “War Pigs” is “Paranoid”, the titular tune that was recorded as no more than an afterthought. Clocking in at around three minutes, “Paranoid” is much faster and to the point than most of Black Sabbath’s other works. “Planet Caravan” comes next, and is unlike every other song on the album, utilizing clean guitars, heavily modulated vocals and a small percussion set to evoke a psychedelic vibe.
‘Paranoid’ The rest of the album is equally as unique, with songs like “Iron Man” (the band’s most popular song) and “Jack The Stripper/Fairies Wear Boots” playing into Black Sabbath’s odd lyrical style and heavy driving instruments. “Electric Funeral” and “Hand of Doom” serve as early inspirations for the soon-to-be “doom metal” genre with their slower tempos and thicker sound. “Rat Salad”, ‘Paranoid’s only instrumental track, features an extended drum solo showcasing just how talented Bill Ward is.
While ‘Paranoid’ itself may not be recognizable to many, songs like “Iron Man” and “Paranoid” prove that Black Sabbath created something truly iconic with this record. Fans of metal, rock, and even punk can all find something to enjoy with ‘Paranoid’. Throughout their long career, Black Sabbath has managed to create a diverse selection of music while still retaining their unique sound, and will always be known as one of the great pioneering metal artists.
Favorite Tracks: “War Pigs”, “Paranoid”, “Jack The Stripper/Fairies Wear Boots”
‘Paranoid’ is streaming everywhere now.
