Black Sabbath

Despite its defiant title, the album hammered a final nail in the original group's coffin.

There was reason for excitement, given the band's resurrection behind Ozzy Osbourne's first replacement, Ronnie James Dio.

For once, even the harshest of critics and most devoted of fans were in agreement.

Write off their obscure and latter-day records at your own peril.

Though boasting another name, this band featured the heavy-metal godfathers' second-most celebrated lineup.

It was a stunning decision, one that hit the singer like a ton of bricks.

This may be their most impressive LP not fronted by Ozzy Osbourne or Ronnie James Dio.

He arrived with a solid reputation fronting Rainbow and the underrated Elf.