Ozzy Osbourne - Scream (Epic) ***

Ozzy returns with a new album, and a new guitar player. The new album sounds very heavy, but at the same time there is certain emptiness here. Like there is not enough soul here. Ozzy's vocals sound great, and right there that's a potential waiting to be explored, but as a whole record Scream just doesn't add up.

One big argument is the lack of melodies. Apart from the title cut, there really isn't anything catchy here. Some tracks are way too heavy, getting into the Metallica side of things, and everyone knows it's not Ozzy. Why force it? Ozzy's heaviness was often mental, you felt it inside your head. And that component is no longer here. "Diggin' Me Down" is one other track that's somehow ambitious, but that's simply not enough. The album needs more memorable songs, otherwise why mutilate your ears trying to spot something that isn't there.

The big question is the guitar player, this is the first time in 20 years Ozzy is left without the aid of Zakk Wylde. The new six-stringer, Gus G, is a fine player, but the overall sound here is more processed than a TV dinner at your local organic stand. Let's hope for a more natural approach next time. That is if there is a next time.

Let's just put this other plastic glamour aside. I want my Ozzy back!

Mark Kadzielawa