Great Metal Albums of 1982: Ozzy Osbourne- Diary of a Madman

With former band Black Sabbath riding high, after Ozzy’s departure with two successful studio albums and one thrilling live album, Ozzy Osbourne was not about to disappear in a puff of smoke. He let the world he was still around and still able to rock with his second album, “Diary of a Madman.” In fact, when people talk about this album today, it is often in the same breath as his fantastic debut album, “Blizzard of Oz.” Many go on to boldly declare that these are his two best albums ever! Even though I’m inclined to agree, I won’t enter into that debate but what I do know is that “Diary of a Madman” made my 1982 that much nicer.

What I find so great about this album is that every song has something to like about it. As much as this has been stated about so many albums, there literally is no song to dislike on “Diary of a Madman.” Hell, there isn’t even a mediocre song on it. “Over the Mountain” lets you know that this is going to be a great album, so prepare for the ride. “Flying High Again” gave me that “I remember that song and it was cool” feeling and brought back memories to when I used to rock to it back in the day. “You Can’t Kill Rock and Roll” could have and should have been used a statement against the anti- rock movement that would manifest itself a couple of years down the line. Oh, I’ll go into that much more when the time comes. “Believer,” “Little Dolls” and “S.A.T.O.” all show what a great guitarist Rhoads was although he works his six string magic all over the album. “Tonight” is the token ballad and it is done very well and with the title cut closing out things, the result is one brilliant album from Ozzy. His first two solo albums alone are plenty of reason why he should be knighted.

Track Listing:

1. Over the Mountain

2. Flying High Again

3. You Can’t Kill Rock and Roll

4. Believer

5. Little Dolls

6. Tonight

7. S.A.T.O.

8. Diary of a Madman

Ozzy Osbourne

Ozzy Osbourne- vocals

Randy Rhoads- guitar

Bob Daisley- bass

Lee Kerslake- drums

Like Black Sabbath with “Live Evil,” Ozzy’s band would have similar problems during the recording of “Diary of a Madman.” Bassist Bob Daisley and drummer Lee Kerslake would be fired from the band when they approached management about not being paid. From what I’ve heard and read, that may have been down to new manager, Ozzy’s wife Sharon, stamping her authority. However, the biggest blow would be the loss of guitarist Rhoads and that is something that I feel needs its own post. But whatever went on behind the scenes, this album is a sure fire cracker.

Next post: Judas Priest- Screaming for Vengeance

To buy Rock and Roll Children, go to http://www.strategicpublishinggroup.com/title/RockAndRollChildren.html

Also available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Froogle and on sale at Foyles Book Shop in London