This is disappointing news, but ultimately inevitable. Due to his ongoing treatment for lymphoma, guitarist Tony Iommi has be forced to pull out of all of Black Sabbath's festival appearances with the exception of Download Festival in Donnington, UK. To make up for it, Ozzy will be taking over for a special "Ozzy & Friends" set. The show will feature special appearances from guest musicians including Geezer Butler, who will join the Ozman for a special Sabbath set in support of Iommi, and Zakk Wylde will rejoin Ozzy for the shows as well. Slash will be at select shows, as well as what the press release promises as other special guests. The dates for the shows are:
BLACK SABBATH
Jun. 10 – Donnington, UK @ Download FestivalOZZY & FRIENDS
May 23 – Helsinki, Finland – Hartwall Arena
May 25 – Stockholm, Sweden – Stadium
May 27 – Jelling, Denmark – Jelling Festival
May 29 – Bergen, Norway – Bergen Calling Festival
May 31 – Oslo, Norway – Spektrum
Jun. 02 – Malmo, Sweden – Malmo Stadium
Jun. 04 – Dortmund, Germany – Westfalenhalle
Jun. 06 – Prague, Czech Republic – O2 Arena
Jun. 15 – Vitoria, Spain – Azkena Rock Festival
Jun. 17 – Clisson, France – Hellfest
Jun. 22 – Dessel, Belgium – Graspop Metal Meeting
Jun. 24 – Milan, Italy – Gods of Metal Festival
Jun. 26 – Vienna, Austria – Stadthalle
Jun. 28 – Belgrade, Serbia – USCE Park
Jul. 01 – Athens, Greece – Rockwave Festival – Terra
Iommi is still planning on recording the new album, but this is certainly a bummer to Sabbath fans everywhere. I'm assuming Iommi is just not well enough to travel long distances, or get on any planes, and seeing as though Donnington is probably a drive away from where he is, he could make it. We hope for the best for Iommi.
You have to wonder if Bill Ward settles his contract dispute, will he be joining this Ozzy & Friends tour?
