Tony Iommi on New Solo Album, Missing Ozzy Osbourne, and How He's Not Going Anywhere

Tony Iommi is returning to the studio with a new solo album titled From the Dark. Set for release on October 23, this project marks his first full-length record in over two decades. The lead single, World Alone, highlights the signature heavy riff style that defined his career, though it features a faster tempo than much of his previous work with Black Sabbath.

Iommi produced the album alongside longtime collaborator Mike Exeter. Rather than seeking out high-profile celebrity guest stars, Iommi assembled a dedicated band for the project, including Norwegian vocalist Jørn Lande, bassist Becky Baldwin, and drummer Karl Brazil. The guitarist noted that he wanted to keep the recording process focused and band-oriented. Queen guitarist Brian May appears as a guest on the track Death Wake, marking another chapter in their long history of mutual support and friendship.

During a recent discussion, Iommi addressed the end of Black Sabbath and his relationship with the late Ozzy Osbourne. He shared that he still misses their frequent conversations and finds it strange to navigate the music scene without him. Despite health challenges that required regular medical appointments during the recording process, Iommi remains committed to his craft. He views music as an essential part of his life and continues to write new material.

From the Dark follows Iommi’s recent move to reclaim rights to early recordings from his time in the band Earth. While he plans to release those archival tracks eventually, his current focus remains on this new creative chapter. He noted that he has no immediate plans for live performances with this new group, preferring to take opportunities as they arrive while staying active in the studio.