A significant discovery for heavy metal history has recently been made: a previously unknown tape from 1980 has surfaced, documenting Ozzy Osbourne and legendary guitarist Randy Rhoads during early rehearsals. The tape dates back to when Osbourne was assembling his first solo band following his departure from Black Sabbath.
The recording contains raw versions of classics like 'Crazy Train' and 'Mr. Crowley', captured at Ridge Farm Studios in Surrey, England. Particularly fascinating are the between-take conversations, offering a unique glimpse into the band's creative process. Listeners can hear Osbourne and Rhoads fine-tuning arrangements and discussing various guitar parts.
For fans, this discovery is invaluable as it documents one of the most creative moments in Osbourne's career. Randy Rhoads, who tragically died in a plane crash in 1982, is captured here in his early days with Ozzy. His innovative guitar techniques and classically-inspired playing, which would go on to influence heavy metal profoundly, are already clearly evident.
The recordings also showcase the genesis of Osbourne's first solo album 'Blizzard of Ozz', which would become a heavy metal milestone. Music historians and fans are now hoping for an official release of this material, which documents a crucial moment in metal history.
