Iommi

A diverse cast of characters helped create this impressive, four-years-in-the-works solo debut from legendary Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi. The vintage ultra-heavy Sabbath musicality gives the disc a cohesiveness despite the variety of voices and lyrics penned by 10 different singers. Skin (of Skunk Anansie) has a lovely, precise delivery that contrasts with the dirgelike feel of "Meat," while Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl turns in a performance that mixes the Foos, Nine Inch Nails, and Sabbath on "Goodbye Lament." Ian Astbury's dramatic vocals on "Flame On" are especially suited to the material, which in this case sounds like Danzig. Also perfect for the portentous vibe is Billy Idol, whose sensual snarl and trademark "yow!" on "Into the Night" is a highlight, despite lame lyrics. A few singers miss the mark: Type O Negative's Peter Steele's deep bass out-Goths the material and Henry Rollins sounds silly. But Iommi's stellar strategic solos (at times they achieve a Jimmy Page-like mysticism) and retro Sabbath stylings make Iommi a must-listen for old-school metal mongers. Black light posters optional. --Katherine Turman